Feeling anxious

[geminiwanderlust]

Sometimes I’m not sure I am cut out for this job. I have been a school nurse for two years now and I am just feeling like maybe I’m not right for this position.  I struggle dealing with parents.  I’m trying to work on my communication skills but it feels impossible to make everyone happy (and to respect COVID protocols).  I’m struggling with one of my secretaries also—I travel between multiple buildings and must delegate a lot to her.  She ignores my delegation and sometimes thinks she knows more than I do about how to manage some kids with chronic illnesses.  I miss the confidence I had at my previous nursing position.  I felt capable of handling anything thrown at me.  I’m wondering if I should resign or stick it out one more year.  

[k1p1ssk, BSN, RN]

I am so sorry you're feeling this way. There is no shame in realizing an area of nursing (or any job, really) isn't right for you. I am a huge proponent for doing what is best for you, ESPECIALLY when it comes to a job. You spend a majority of your time in that position, you deserve to NOT feel belittled, uncomfortable, or like your license is on the line, no matter what. 

With all that said, how much do you feel admin has your back regarding parents and COVID protocols? Do you have policies to back up your delegation with the secretary? If not, do you feel you have any footing to make these changes? If you feel stuck and you cannot see any light or a helping hand, then it may be time to leave. Maybe that district's culture just isn't for you! You have 2 years of experience in school nursing, so maybe you can find an individual school to work at... Or look at independent/private schools! Maybe you need a space where you can make the position your own!

No matter what, please know that I support you! ?

[RatherBHiking, BSN, RN]

You can't make EVERYONE happy so stop trying. Follow protocols and if someone doesn't like it have them take it up with administration. I regularly tell parents that I don't make the rules and understand their frustration but I have to follow and enforce them because that's my job. Is the secretary putting kids at risk or just not doing it your way? If it's not really putting the child at risk I wouldn't worry so much. Choose your battles. If she is then go up the chain and say you're worried about possible injuries and lawsuits. Do you have a head nurse you can call for advice from? 

 Here's the thing, with school nursing you have to be willing to stand up to staff, parents, students etc and just be firm sometimes but if you don't feel you have administrative support and student's well-being is being put at risk then I'd move on. If you do have support and just aren't comfortable standing up for kids and yourself then you have to decide if you can learn to do better at this or just move on. Not every position is for every nurse and that's OK. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. I used to be afraid to stand up to people because I was afraid I'd get in trouble but I actually got in more trouble for not standing up more because staff will throw you under the bus so fast your head will spin so I started doing it and realized people may get upset but they get over it pretty fast. And as you get older you just quit caring so much what other people think. ?

[tining, BSN, RN]

In the beginning I struggled with parent calls.  I wrote out scripts for various scenarios and frequent conversations.  That really helped me.  

As far as the secretary goes, have a private conversation with her.  With you not there regularly she has to work autonomously.  Tell her some of her decisions may backfire in regards to liability and you would like to collaborate with her regarding decisions that are less cut and dry.  This could help you both to have a say, which seems important to her.