Knowing When To Move On, Where To Go

[NurseLeia]

I'm a new grad with 6 months experience on a step-down unit, and I'm unhappy with my job. This is my first career. I'm positive you have heard the same story many, many times.

To put it simply, the crushing anxiety I am experiencing related to the position, workload, staffing, management, etc. has led me to pursue other options. Truthfully, I have been looking at open positions since orientation ended, but I dedicated myself to stick it out for 6 months.

One reason I chose nursing was the options. But now the many options are a bit overwhelming. How have you made career decisions in nursing? How do you go about finding your niche in nursing? Is it even possible?

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

It's perfectly normal as a new grad to feel anxious and ponder your future. The first year is very challenging.

You should consider staying at your current position for at least one year before moving on. Learn as much as you can with your current employer. Take some time to reflect on the areas of nursing that interest you and then see what qualifications are desired.

I have always known that I wanted to work with seniors. I went from charge to unit manager and soon I will move to an educator role. Along the way I've achieved specialty certifications.

Yes it is possible to find your niche, but for some people this takes time. In this economic climate you would be wise to get some experience before changing jobs.

[RNperdiem, RN]

Most of the best options only open up once you have some relevant experience.

A new grad with less than a year actually has only a few options.

I think six months is the peak of stress for a new grad. The excitement and newness of nursing has worn off, but because you are new, everything is so much harder. Be kind to yourself.

I gave med-surg a year then moved on to ICU. Life in nursing got better.

[lhflanurseNP, APRN]

If your facility is looking for people to float to different departments to help out, this is a great way to get your feet wet and try out some other areas of nursing.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

Deep breaths. Research the many threads on the issues during the first year of nursing.

You need to stick it out for one year(at least). Focus on that..then research your options.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

If your facility is looking for people to float to different departments to help out, this is a great way to get your feet wet and try out some other areas of nursing.

Cannot disagree more. Floating would sink her ship stat.

[NurseLeia]

Thank you, everyone.

[lhflanurseNP, APRN]

I found it quite rewarding. Enough to know what areas I was not interested in. But then...that was many moons ago and things have probably changed.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Moved to First Year after Nursing Licensure