I want to quit during SICU orientation

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Hello,

So i have had a week of orientation in the SICU at a level 1 trauma center. Ive been a floor nurse for 3 years at the same hospital before taking this job. I feel completely overwelmed and have no interest in ICU nursing anymore. I already can tell that I wont be happy here and I want to either go back to my old job or join the med surg float pool at my hospital. I took the job because I was ready for a change and this job sort of fell into my lap. After starting I feel really stupid and get so nervous that I cant even use my common sense. My question is, if i know this isnt for me should I still give it a few more weeks or should I talk to my manager now?

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I would talk to your manager now. S/he may urge you to give it some more time or they may advise you to move back to your old job, or some other option. But the sooner you discuss this with them, the sooner they can help you with the best solution.

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If you need more time, don't hesitate to ask for it. Switching specialties is a major adjustment, and just because you have previous experience doesn't mean you should be short-changed with orientation.

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Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

Any time you change specialties you can expect to feel a lot like a new grad again. There's a steep learning curve and all the competency you felt in your previous specialty will feel very precarious in the new situation. Just like a brand new nurse, you can expect a full year before the anxiety fades and two before you feel truly competent. Only you can decide if you are willing to give it that kind of time. Just know there are no wrong answers here and there isn't anything "wrong" with you.

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What happened?

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Give it more time.

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