I can't handle bedside nursing, but I am a new grad!

[RACHAEL BOUGHTON]

Hi everyone, it has been a very long time since I last posted a question. The last time I posted, I was discussing elopement issues with patients on my unit at a severely under-resourced hospital. I worked there for five months as a new graduate and ultimately resigned due to the intensity of the patient population and the violence that often accompanied it. I am in my mid forties and the stress of the hospital is wearing on my physical and mental health.

Fast forward a few months later, I accepted a position at a very prestigious hospital in Los Angeles—one that does not offer union representation or overtime, but looks great on a resume.  I was initially very excited to begin and complete my new graduate residency there. However, the stress from constant micromanagement, combined with a death in my family and stress related health issues made it extremely difficult to continue working, and I made the difficult decision to resign.

 

At this point, I am questioning whether bedside nursing is the right fit for me and feel unsure about my next steps. Many alternative nursing roles seem to require years of experience, and I am struggling with the idea of starting over as a new graduate at another hospital for the third time. If anyone has insight or advice, I would truly appreciate it.

 

Wishing everyone an amazing and abundant year.

 

Sincerely,

Rachael

 

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I'm sorry you are going through such a rough time at the start of a career. Have you made a pros and cons list to kinda determine what was so stressful? Patient ratios? Patient disease processes? Pt/family interactions? Violence to healthcare workers? Is your personal life now more stable after the health issues and death of a family member?