Fresh RN

[MrsMiller0619, RN]

I was an LVN for 6 years and have recently (7 months) gotten my RN. I am currently a treatment nurse at a LTC facility and love wound care, but am seriously questioning if I have made the right career choice. I’m not sure if it’s the toxicity of the work place but I question if I want to do nursing anymore. I remember a time when I was soooooo passionate about medicine and I just don’t have that fire anymore. I am at a loss as to what I should do. Any advice?

[londonflo]

6 minutes ago, MrsMiller0619 said:

I remember a time when I was soooooo passionate about medicine and I just don’t have that fire anymore.

Nursing is not medicine. You are providing health care. May be thinking about your role in health care will help you find you are  a valuable member to promote and help others achieve the best quality of life! 

[MrsMiller0619, RN]

I meant “medicine” as in the medical field. I know that nursing is health care but it is also a lot more then just that.  Thank you for your comment. 

[londonflo]

Thank you for your response. Nursing IS healthcare.

31 minutes ago, MrsMiller0619 said:

 I know that nursing is health care but it is also a lot more then just that.

What more can health care encompass than what we prevent through education at all the life span milestones, early detection, assisting with entry into the established health care system, supporting those who are in the healthcare system with nursing care: physical and supportive care, implementing the medical plan of care, teaching and providing a conduit for discharge planning (and support in the home after discharge if necessary). 

Please be proud of your vital role in all the actions above. 

[HiddenAngels]

It could quite possibly your toxic work environment.  Just read through some of the post on AN; nurses are treated very unfairly quite often.  But, before you throw in the towel, maybe switch to something else like a clinic or inpatient.  There's a lot of different roads you can travel.  Luck!!?

[No Stars In My Eyes]

This may not be a pertinent comparison, but ....

When a person is first "in love" they are passionate. After whatever time passes, the 'passion' likely isn't the driving response to the relationship. LOVE is, but being 'in love' isn't. Being 'in love' is exciting and new. Loving long term takes a commitment to be there, regardless. 

At least it is easier to change jobs than divorce someone.

[CommunityRNBSN, BSN, RN]

LTC is vitally important; it's also hard.  If you're feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, it could be that you just need to try a different field. I know you're in a new position, so you may not want to change right away, but start looking at job postings.  You may find that something outside of LTC appeals to you.