I was hoping to get some input from others who have been in my shoes before.
So my situation is that after just 3 years of working as a nurse on an oncology/medicine/palliative care unit the sadness of seeing what my patients and families go through has really taken its toll on me. Also the negativity, high work load/stress and lack of care from management adds to it. Just 2 days ago after about 1.5-2 years of dealing with this I finally admitted I was depressed. I am seeking counselling now and have an apt to see my family doc re: meds if he thinks I need them, but am also exploring the idea of changing units or jobs and was looking to get some feedback.
I am wondering from those who have dealt with this before did moving units or changing jobs help relieve your nursing induced depression? I am exploring the option of a cardiac surg unit or possibly clinic work or whatever else comes up. Sometimes I just want to quit nursing and find a simple job, but financially thats not realistic.
Specializes in Med-Surg, OB, ICU, Public Health Nursing.
The great thing about nursing is the ability to find a new challenge/direction. I would highly suggest trying a new area. I made multiple moves during an 40 year career and never regretted a move. Best wishes to you, for healing, health and light.
Your taking great first steps. But really think about it. the patient population you take care of is downright sad. Its enough to give anyone depression. Also burnout. Caregiver fatigue etc.
That being said, I dont think there are many areas of nursing that are all hunky dory, fun and lollipops, but with oncology you see so many people die too young. Its sad. I work ICU, and yes its still sad, but I think its easier to distance myself because usually my patients are old. They are sedated, intubated etc. We are flogging a dead horse so to speak. So when they do die, it doesnt bother me so much. Because they have lived their life. People die when they get old. It will happen to all of us. You dont make that connection as much with a ICU patient. (you do more with their families).
I would suggest really thinking about a specialty change. Day surgery? I sometimes work extra in our day surgery unit or pacu. Most of these people go home. Most are nice and pleasant, they are just there for a minor procedure. We recover them and send them on their way. Literally zero stress. Because medically they are all stable. Just need monitoring. And usually they are pretty nice too.
Or maybe something like a procedural area like cath lab, endoscopy, infusion center.
Thats only part of yoru problem though and definately seeking counseling etc is a great first step.
I quit after only 1.5 years working in oncology. I had lost a parent and found it very difficult to carry my own grief and also help support my patients and their families. I felt guilty about leaving and was worried I would be seen as a "job hopper" but I had no issue finding a new job. It was ultimately the right decision and I have no regrets!
It's time for you to take care of you. I hope you find something that is a better fit!
I think it is disappointing to hear that nurses, who are the bedrock of a hospital, need to be on anti-depressant medicines. It boggles my mind also when I see nurses standing outside the hospital building having a smoke since many of the patients are in the hospital because of that practice.
nurseactivist
247 Posts
The great thing about nursing is the ability to find a new challenge/direction. I would highly suggest trying a new area. I made multiple moves during an 40 year career and never regretted a move. Best wishes to you, for healing, health and light.