Published Feb 28, 2017
Jamie34NY
3 Posts
Hi all! So I transferred to the ED from labor, delivery/Mother-baby. I work in a level 1 trauma center. A VERY busy ED. I have always wanted to work in the ED, even before I was in nursing school. I love it so far, I am 6 weeks in. The nurses are not the nicest to me. I am kind of bubbly and happy, they are angry and just "clicky". I HATE this about nursing. I am having a hard time with it. I am nice and treat everyone in a respectful, nice manner. I get we are busy, but man some of these nurses make me not even want to look at them. I dont get where nurses act like this? I am not a new grad, I have it together. I work fast and hard. I feel like they are just miserable and hate my positive presence, I swear. Any advice for me?
Lunah, MSN, RN
14 Articles; 13,773 Posts
Just keep being you. I have always felt that being nice to people costs nothing — it's free, and I feel better about myself and the way I interact with other people. It does make it tough when you feel like you aren't part of the "in" crowd — do you feel like they'd have your back in a code or bad situation? The teamwork when it comes to what's actually best for the patient tells me a lot.
Miserable people are going to be miserable.
NurseHeart&Soul, MSN
2 Articles; 156 Posts
Just keep being you. I have always felt that being nice to people costs nothing — it's free, and I feel better about myself and the way I interact with other people. It does make it tough when you feel like you aren't part of the "in" crowd — do you feel like they'd have your back in a code or bad situation? The teamwork when it comes to what's actually best for the patient tells me a lot.Miserable people are going to be miserable.
I'm with Pixie.RN...don't be anything but you. Maintain your professionalism, integrity, your positive spirit, your good vibe. This bubbly person would love to work with you! I'm sure there are some who will love your energy...be patient. Keep learning and proving yourself. ED is an amazing place. Enjoy!
Lev, MSN, RN, NP
4 Articles; 2,805 Posts
You are still on orientation presumably? Save your judgments for when you are a year in. Meanwhile, keep up the respect and friendliness.
RobbiRN, RN
8 Articles; 205 Posts
I take it that "love it so far" refers to the ER environment, the rapid turnover, and the wide range of problems, while "having a hard time with it" refers to the way some staff are treating you. It's a big jump from L&D to the ER, from a very specialized area to the wide open arena of every imaginable problem in its raw state. Being drawn to the environment means you belong there. If you continue to be positive, work hard and fast, keep your head in the game, and learn every chance you get, you will earn your place and the respect of the haters soon enough. Good luck.
bgxyrnf, MSN, RN
1,208 Posts
Keep doing what you're doing and you will find other like-minded people... nurses, RTs, docs...
As you begin to develop some expertise and the respect that it garners, you will find your place there, and you will have allies cultivated through your positive interactions and mutual respect.
Don't play the catty game.
FanRN, BSN
15 Posts
I second what everyone else said, stay positive and keep doing what you are doing. Don't let it change who you are. Could be also that they are "initiating" you and will come around in time. That happens everywhere, not just in healthcare setting.
On the side note, can I come work with you? I love working with happy people
pockunit, ADN, RN
614 Posts
I am almost aggressively upbeat and I have found that it wins people over in spite of themselves. It can be exhausting on some days, but it's generally worth it in the long run.
~Mi Vida Loca~RN, ASN, RN
5,259 Posts
I knew I always liked you for a reason!!! I am with a group in my town and we do random acts of kindness in groups in hopes it spreads!!!
However, I have to ask for lots of forgiveness after driving often.
In the ER when I find that my co-workers become unbearable and it's constant negativity and gossiping and all that, I go hang out with a patient and their family for a few. It reminds me why I am there and they always appreciate that I pull up the stool and chat and always understand if I have to jump up and go.
JKL33
6,953 Posts
I agree with the others. Life is really too short to spend it playing stupid games. Avoid getting roped into others' misery or letting it slowly wear you down. It's awesome that you're doing well and enjoying what you dreamed of doing. Focus on continuing to absorb new information and really learn it well. Focus on doing your best for every patient. You'll be one of those who becomes truly expert at ED nursing, and most importantly you'll feel good about who you are.
I may have a couple more comments, but first I'm curious - how long have these (angry) nurses worked in the ED?