Going back to the bedside?

[twarlik]

After two years at the bedside, I accepted a management position. I was sure it was what I wanted to do, but after 6 months I am feeling the desire to go back to the bedside. I'm a little concerned about how my manager will react when I tell her this and was wondering how you other managers would feel. Have any of you had an experience like this? Is 6 months too soon to leave my current position?

I appreciate any advice you can all give me.

Todd

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

After 6 months of nursing I wanted out too. I think you have not had time to really get a good idea. But you are the only person who really knows, and it is far better to be a good nurse than a bad manager. Don't need any more of those.

[rnanm]

interesting and definitely doable. on our unit there have been 5 rn's who thought they would like to leave bedside nursing and try management. all 5 returned to the bedside after varying times and never looked back. each says they are happier now and they don't have to take the job home with them. one returned to management with an understanding she could still schedule herself weekly for bedside nursing as desired. maybe that would help?

good luck in your quest

[SarahK73]

I had a mentor tell me when I first started in management to give it 2 years before would feel like I knew what I was doing. She ended up being right. 6 months is a little soon but life is to short to be unhappy.

[twarlik]

Thank you all for your input.

I met with my manager last week and we are working to find a way to make my position a better fit for me. She thinks I'm doing a good job and wants to try and keep me in my current role. For the time being, I have decided to stick it out and see how things go.

Thanks again for your replies.

Todd