Help! What did i get myself into????

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Hi all,

I am seeking the advice of those experienced in this field.

My background: I am a new grad, desperate for a job. So I took what I could get and signed up for a job a field nurse. I didn't receive any training or percepting. I thought starting with 1 or 2 cases would give me a good idea of how things were like but I didn't expect to receive a bunch more patients. So I did see half of the ones I was assigned to and it was overwhelming. I got really nervous and didn't really do a perfect job in regards bag technique. One client who needed interpreting took a long time and rushed me which led to a lack of a complete skin assessment. I don't know what to do I feel i did a ok job with everything. One client was difficult to hear breath sounds clearly due to her inability to do deep breathing. I my stomach is in knots I feel soo bad.

So should I stay and try to wether it out or should I quit.

Sorry for the essay.

Thanks

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I am a new grand in home care nursing too. The biggest difference is I am part of a residency program for me grads and there is a very formal orientation process with a preceptor. I definitely feel overwhelmed at times as you do and sometimes find myself second guessing myself. I think a lot of that is because we are new to nursing. I don't think this experience means you aren't cut out for home care, but I do think you are lacking the support system that will make it a valuable and worthwhile experience for you. Take care of yourself. I may suggest asking if they have a preceptor program. Is is something you asked about prior to getting the job? I think an honest conversation with your manager may be helpful. I definitely don't think I would be able to stay and whether it out. It's important that you don't settle and actually are in a position that will teach you something and make you better. I know this isn't an answer, but I hope it helps.

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Thank you j

I get what you mean. I really am trying to convince myself that I will do better the next time around. For what I know, this place doesn't offer those things and I was told by my manager that new grads have been hired before and sent without training and did fine. I feel like fine could be anything, I really want to get better at this and I know now the only way to do so is by practice. I sorta wish there was more info on the clients I have beforehand, sometimes no dx I gotta get it from the pt. I feel a lot different today about how I did compared to when I first posted. I think I'll stay for now and try to find a better method to stick to.

Thank you

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I'm glad you're feeling better! I've definitely had a lot of ups and downs - I think it's all part of the process. Good luck!

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

OP, I have to say, although I get the tough job market right now, home health is really something you should have SOME kind of med-surg or acute care experience for. If something goes wrong, you are ALL ALONE with the patient.

I would keep looking, unless they are willing to give you some kind of training. They are just trying to save themselves the headache and cost of training you. They couldn't care less what happens, so long as SOMEONE completes these visits. IF/WHEN you leave, well there are tons more looking for work to take your place.

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Yes, you should have hospital experience before hc. life experience helps a lot too. The human element is way more acute is hc. You are right in the middle of people's lives.... Being able to relate to people from the emotional to the physical and more has been important. I went to nursing school at 42. Spent 2 yrs in a hospital before finding a hc job

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