I'm a (relatively) new grad BSN/RN and am looking for work. The catch is that I don't want to work in a clinical setting. Why not? I've worked at two different inpatient facilities in the last year. I just couldn't handle the pace and patient load (couldn't do competent care AND complete necessary tasks in a timely manner). I was giving it my all and wasn't ready to give up, but in the end my supervisors made the decision for me to leave. Now that I look back at it, even if I'd had more time added to my orientations, I can't imagine ever really feeling comfortable with that pace.
I looked into a third place that was much more manageable in terms of patient load and responsibilties (a unique facility), but I'd have been the only RN supervising LVNs and CNAs. I'm not comfortable being the only RN there to deal with emergencies. I could keep trying to find a "good fit" but am afraid of failing again and changing jobs too often. I'm very reluctant to try another clinical job.
I really enjoy working people, problem-solving, and learning new things. I like getting things done. I've always been interested in health care and public service. I did very well in school. Public health, epidemiology, and research were some of my favorite courses. I can't say I loved clinicals, but I did fine. However, it's nothing in comparison to having the multitude of responsibilties and distractions flying at you that the average nurse deals with non-stop.
People always say nurses have so many options. Our instructors were very insistent that nurses don't have to work bedside. Nonetheless, most non-clinical "nurse" jobs require a strong clinical background. Nurse educator ads require years of related experience. Public health and research are areas that I'm interested in as well, but the job market is tight and I can't afford to be out of work for six months to a year trying to find work in those areas. I don't want to "waste" my education, but I'm tempted to just take any stable job at this point. Any advice?