The post by ICU Becky was so timely for me, b/c now I am being forced into the charge nurse role (called "Lead Nurse" where I work). I have up to this time loudly proclaimed that I would quit my job before I do lead. They have left me alone until now.
Suddenly and unexpectedly, one of our "experienced Lead RNs" has announced she is leaving for another job, and it seems our floor REALLY needs another dayshift lead.The choice is down to me (3 yrs experience), or a "new" RN with only 3 mos. experience. So, obviously I have to do it. I don't feel ready to do this! I feel like just a fledgling with a measley 3 years experience on tele/renal floor. Everyone is trying to pump me up, and say I will do great, but I don't feel that confident. I work day shift, and our floor is absolutely insane at the desk. They are offering me a "lengthy" orientation of 1 week. What kind of orientation did most of you get?
I am just dreading it! ;-( I know my coworkers will Bitc* about their assignments, and admissions (b/c they do that already) and I hate having to fend off admitting, who are like agressive telemarketers (they call ALL the time). I feel like I don't have enough experience to do this.
Some of the nurses working the floor have more experience (ie floats from other depts, LVNs who've worked the floor for 8+ years). I guess these are normal feelings, after reading ICUBecky's post. I'm only going to get a measly $12/shift for the added responsibility.
On the plus side, I know it might be challenging for me, and I will learn tele better, and prioritizing/delegation. I know it will look good as far as experience goes. I don't really want to quit my job, so I probably will have to do this. I wish I wasn't so scared! I haven't felt like this since I was a new grad, first day on the job!
Please wish me luck, I'm going to need it.