Challenge!

[Rookie02]

Hey all you fellow heroes :)

I, like many of you, am new to this site... I like reading it now and then its a real pick me up! I just graduated as a nurse a couple of months ago (NB Canada).

Now i work occasional (but full time hours) on a *float* team at the local hospital. Whats frustrating is i work on 3 different departments. ne day here, the next day there... I find it frustrating because i hardly have time to grow accustomed to the routines, environnment and clients of one place before i'm shipped off to another... So I am constantly looking all over the unit for this and that, not knowing my patients too well either, since there is no continuity of care on my part.

To me that is the most *challenging* part of my job for now.

The hospital where I work hardly ever offers permanent or even temporary full time positions to us newbies.. and to me that it horrible because not only am i new, but i'm dont have the chance to become comfortable in my working atmosphere, and i believe that is unsafe for our patients.

I wanted to ask what is your opinion on this, and what are your biggest challenges?

Rookie02

[nurse_nightingale]

Hi,

We actually had this discussion during one of our clinical meetings during our last year of the nursing program. You are right, what you have taken is a challenging position. Wow, what a confidence. Float nursing is for those who feel confident about their skills, who do not get stressed out easily, really depends on the person. As a new grad, you would benefit from a regular, permanent position rather than float nursing. It helps if you have years of experience as well. If you feel that you are not learning and feel that you are always rushing and do not feel competent in that position, you should consider looking at other position. Like you said, the last thing you want to do is put your patient's safety at risk. All I can suggest is find nurses who are willing to help you and make your shift as most pleasurable as can be. Anyway, think about it. Hope this helps.

[Rookie02]

Thanks Nightingale,

Yes i do feel rushed all the time, but this is likely because there is staff shortage, and also the fact that i am new. I don't yet feel confident about all my skills, and i ask plenty of questions to the other nurses working with me during my shifts... it is the only way i can ensure my patents safety, i never do anything i don't feel comfortable doing. Most nurses are very understanding and helpful... mark my *MOST*

I would love nothing more than a permanent position, but its not easy when youre new and working at this hospital, its really unfair! It goes by seniority, the amount of hours you put in.