I am new grad that has decided to start my nursing career in the NICU. During nursing school I never had the AH moment during clincials where I instantly fell in love with a specific area. Now being in the NICU I get nervous at times that I'm not sure where I am meant to be. Granted I love my patients, I love the intensity and the close relationship the nurses have with doctors (the nurses are very respected and have lots of say in the plan of care). I just wonder when I'll feel like this is right for me.
So I guess I just would like some insight on experienced nurses career course... did you love what you did at first, did you make a career change? how did you know you belonged on a unit and most of all how did you find what you LOVED. At the end of the day work is work but I guess I'm having trouble finding my passion/niche.
I fell into psych. One day I realized i dont need to worry about breaking my back, risk of fluids exposure is low and so is needle stick, we have the best security in the hospital, most of my day is spent talking to some very interesting people. Most of them are never an inch away from death and can use the bathroom independently. that was my AH! moment, i realized that i didn't like traditional nursing. It wouldn't have to be psych for me but it would have to be something with the same feel, less medical more social interaction, more independent adls, less body fluids
Specializes in Adult and Pediatric Vascular Access, Paramedic.
I had my aha moment ages ago when I was fresh out of high school and worked as an ER tech, from then on I knew I loved caring for pediatric patients and disliked caring for adults. I think my ideal job would be in a pediatric ER, mainly because I like the high turnover of patients (I get bored easy). and the various ages and complaints. I originally had my heart set on NICU, but I think that would be to slow of a pace for me.
I think any job that I could only care for kids would be ideal, as long as morale and management are good!
SheriffLauren
92 Posts
I fell into psych. One day I realized i dont need to worry about breaking my back, risk of fluids exposure is low and so is needle stick, we have the best security in the hospital, most of my day is spent talking to some very interesting people. Most of them are never an inch away from death and can use the bathroom independently. that was my AH! moment, i realized that i didn't like traditional nursing. It wouldn't have to be psych for me but it would have to be something with the same feel, less medical more social interaction, more independent adls, less body fluids