Failed NCLEX, lost my job

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Specializes in Gynecology/Oncology.

I've been on the same unit for 14 months. I worked as a student, and graduated in December. I took my boards last week and failed. My hospital policy is that you can't be fired for failing boards. So my boss comes in on Sunday and calls me into her office. She kept saying it has nothing to do with boards, but she can't afford to keep me on orientation and wants me to take some time off. She also said she doesn't think it's going to work out because I just don't mesh well, and I'm not a good fit for the unit. So I've been there over a year, and 2 days after failing boards I'm not a good fit? Whatever. And apparently, some of the nurses made some false accusations against me on a personal level. I was so upset. Too much bad news in 2 days. I'm a little relieved because it's a very difficult unit and I've never felt welcomed, but still shocked over everything.

So I plan on studying for boards again, and after passing, looking elsewhere. I just had to vent, and since my self-esteem is blown, wondered if anyone has suggestions for a unit that's good for learning and not too fast paced? The unit I was on is general medical, and has a lot of geriatric patients. It's very busy and hard physically. I know I'm going to be busy as a nurse, but I don't want to feel like a chicken with my head cut off all the time.

THANKS

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Hi,

I just wanted to say how sorry I am your manager did that to you 2 days after failing NCLEX. No doubt it is a blessing in disguise, as I'm sure this would not be a good place for you to start your nursing career. Can you retake NCLEX in 45 days, like we can in Kentucky?

I'm not sure what to say about your dilemma on where to look for another job; my best advice is to find a hospital that has a solid new grad orientation program. In the meantime, maybe you research what area you'd like to be in, and get a job there as a tech until you pass boards.

Best wishes on retaking NCLEX, you can do it!!

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Specializes in ER/Trauma.

I know this has got to be a rough time for you right now. I am appalled your manager would do this to you! But you know you are an excellent student and are going to be a GREAT nurse!! You will find your fit as a nurse, sounds like where you were wasn't a place that was going to make you happy? I am willing to bet when you pass NCLEX, you are going to be off an running in a spot that fits you better than you thought!

Take yourself out for a nice pedicure, massage, destress moment and big breath. You will be right back up on top of things!

My best to you, and :icon_hug:

L

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

I am so sorry on both counts. WHen one door closes, though another opens. Maybe it was time to move on.

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Specializes in CCRN.

{HUGS}

Sorry it's been a tough week. I truely believe that everything happens for a reason. It doesn't sound like it was a good fit and you can now find where you are supposed to be. I know from personal experience that 1000 "atta girls" can be crushed by one negative comment, but just hang in there. We're pulling for you.

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I know all too well about being rejected because I wasn't a "good fit." The joke is on them, though, because while I don't like to toot my own horn I am a very dedicated nurse. I don't call in, I do my job. I'm sure you are the same. I know it's easier said than done but just look at those snooty hens as the fools they are and know that better opportunities lie ahead and their "unit" isn't the only unit that exists.

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I'm so sorry that your nursing career is starting out this way. There are bad fits sometimes, and it kind of sounds like you knew in the back of your mind that this wasn't a great fit for you, but it would have been nice if you could have left them. I know it's hard, but remember everything happens for a reason and know that things will be better in the future and think of how lucky your new employer will be!!!

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Specializes in critical care transport.

Hang tight, nursingstudent. I have never found that "when one door closes, another opens" to be false. You are going to look back at this one day and go, "Man I'm glad I got out of there."

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