I need a change

[amzyRN]

I've worked floor nursing for about 3 years now and I'm ready for a change. I've done 2 years step down/tele. Now almost 1 year med/surg/tele and I'm really sick of it. I really like the idea of the ED but worry that I might not be able to handle it. I've been swamped with tasks a few times, just drowning and worry that the ED might be crazy busy. I sometimes doubt my abilities.

I like the idea of helping with real emergencies. I am so sick of snotty MDs who think they are too important to talk to. I'm tired of rude family members and patients complaining about the food. I'm no a waitress and this is not a hotel. I didn't go to nursing school for this kind of crap. I want to save lives and make a difference and see the difference I make. I feel like I'm getting further and further away from that. What do I do?

[dianah, ASN]

Very frustrating for you.

Good to look at alternatives before you experience burnout.

Talk to nurses who work in the ED or other areas (or read in the ED and other sections here -- click on Site Map at the bottom of the page and scroll through the sections).

MDs are not always "snotty."

Check out other departments at your hospital (maybe GI Lab or OR? More procedure-driven areas), see how the nurses like working there.

I hope others will respond as well. :)

Good luck

[NursesRmofun, ASN, RN]

The ER does tend to be an environment where you can save more lives...and there is some excitement. However, it is crazy busy too...*unless you work in an ER in a small town. Maybe then it might be less busy.

[jamisaurus]

You could also consider ICU. MDs are very trusting and respectful of the nurses. Also patients are usually too sick to complain!

[treeye]

It seems that you need to find a job that staff/MD are more supportive. Needy pts and rude MD are everywhere. Maybe a different type of nursing job? best luck.