ICU vs Travel nursing

[tindera]

I really need your honest advice. I've been a nurse for over a year now at a Neuro progressive care unit at the #1 ranked hospital in the state. I've learned a lot in my first year and I know I have so much more to learn. Unfortunately, we had to move so my spouse can go to nursing school. They still have 3 semesters to go. I just started a MICU position closer to our new home. It's a smaller hospital. I'm still in orientation and it's never easy starting somewhere new but I really don't see myself thriving and fitting in this new unit. I have no doubt everyone I worked with is very competent in their jobs most of the staff have been there for over a decade.

I don't see myself fitting in and I'm not getting a good enough orientation and I really do not like the atmosphere and the people. I'm thinking of giving it a few more weeks if things improved. Maybe when I'm on nights orientation but if not I'm considering doing a travel nursing job in a progressive care unit.

I just feel very overwhelmed right now and it's less to do with the tasks required in the ICU but more the atmosphere. I don't think I'll be getting the support I need and it's giving me a lot of anxiety.

[Triddin]

It takes a while to fit in with new coworkers. Give them time and I'm sure you'll be considered part of the team.

I don't think it's recommended that one goes into travel nursing with so little experience.

What support to you perceive that you're lacking? Is there an educator or manager you can discuss this with before deciding to leave?

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

You will get even less support with travel nursing. You would get three days of orientation and be expected to hit the floor running. I found most units are not supportive of travelers.

Give your new position some time. You have a much better chance of "fitting in " with a staff position.