Feeling sick/nausea/panic attacks before my shift...please help!!

[ljb2584]

Hi everyone - I have been a nurse for about two years. I have always had some anxiety before going into work, but recently it has been getting really bad. I started my new job about 6 months ago on a med/surg floor working 3 12's, 7p-7a. I absolutely HATE it. I feel like I cant handle the stress of my responsibilities at times. Recently I was driving to work and I almost had to pull my car over because I was hyperventilating and my heart was racing and I felt like I was going to vomit. Usually I am okay once I get moving on my unit. But its the few hours before my shift when I feel horrible anxiety and sick to my stomach. Anyone else ever experience this? Should I be considering a career change?

Thanks so much.

[summersent]

What's the point of this, to make those that do feel inadequate and like they can't cope in the 'real world?' Some nursing jobs take a lot more out of a person than others and if meds help a person cope and they're okay with that, let them be.

Oh no, you misunderstood. I just think its sad some of the things nurses and nursing students go through. Its not about being inadequate, if anyone had to deal with some of the things nurses do it would take a toll on anyone no matter how mentally and physically healthy you are. Thats the point I was making. I myself am one of the ones who would get the nausea feeling before clinical and I didn't feel inadequate in any way. I knew it was the job. I just don't think its right.