Fired x 2 for slow med pass

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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I was fired from two nursing homes because of slow med pass and therapies . I was giving meds at 12 that should be given in am like Parkinson's. I had 22 patients and fist job 4 med passes. Second job I knew residents worked there as CNA for 1 year. Knowing them is not the same as knowing what meds they take and how they take them and where meds are in the truck. I had one diabetic so had finger sticks and manual no to do every morning as she was a sliding scale. Had to get in there prior to CNA getting her ready for breakfast and taking her to dining room. I had g tube meds it was a lot . I also have staff passing in narrow hall way . Had to stop to move cart all morning. They said I was not improving fast enough after 2 weeks . I am a lpn been 4 months since I graduated. I have been working for big companies in two training programs I hate nursing but I just need a chance to prove myself in a smaller scale. I am not one to give up but it is disheartening to be fired when I know repetitive jobs need repetition to be faster . I have to be careful to not make mistakes and give wrong meds is my concern. I have never gave wrong meds but being late is reason for them to fire you. Life is not fair . I have had so many bad things happen to me in the last 4 years sometimes I think would be better off not in this world. I have went to 3 different nursing schools to finally make it as a nurse and here I am looking for job 3. I commuted 1 hour for this job was rear ended in my new foreign car and now fired again . Nursing school does not prepare you for this

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2 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

I am deeply sorry to hear about the challenges you are facing. It seems like you did not receive sufficient orientation or support to thrive in your position. As a new nurse, you must be given time to develop.

It's clear that you take your responsibilities seriously. Unrealistic workloads pose a safety risk, and it appears that patient safety is not the top priority.

Nursing is challenging, especially in high-pressure environments with numerous responsibilities, and finding the right fit is important.

Here are some suggestions that might help you find a better fit and regain your confidence:

  • Look for smaller facilities. Smaller nursing homes or clinics might offer a less hectic environment where you can focus on providing quality care without overwhelming patient loads.
  • Home health care. This area allows for one-on-one patient care, which might be less stressful and allow you to build your confidence and skills at your own pace.
  • Extended care facilities often have a more stable patient population and can offer a less stressful environment than short-term care or rehabilitation facilities.
  • Support Networks: Join professional support groups or forums for nurses. Connecting with others who have faced similar challenges can provide encouragement and practical advice. Take a look at New Nurses, First Year forum here online.

 Given your feelings of being overwhelmed and your mention of feeling better off not in this world, talking to a mental health professional could be beneficial. It's essential to address these feelings with professional support.

Finding a mentor in the nursing field can provide guidance, support, and practical advice as you navigate your early career challenges.

Reflect on the feedback from your previous employers. Identify specific areas for improvement and work on them. It might be helpful to discuss these with a mentor or a trusted colleague to get practical advice on improving.

Don't give up after four months. You've shown resilience by persevering through nursing school and facing numerous challenges. Keep that determination and seek out environments where you can grow at a pace that suits you.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

Specializes in med/surg.

I am assuming you didn t have a preceptor, or at least not one that was with you long enough.  I worked in a LTC facility and it was brutal.  I rarely got out on time.  I had worked in the hospital previously, but still had a hard time.  Maybe consider working in a hospital for awhile .  You will have less patients and a preceptor that will gradually increase your work load.  You ll be able to increase your skills without being overwhelmed

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