New to Hem/Onc, HELP!

[kel*rn*bsn]

I went into nursing because I wanted to be an oncology nurse. I finished school right when things were getting brutal with getting a job as a new grad. I got a job in a priv pract as an infusion nurse which I have loved for the past 9 months but I work very part time and with very limited meds and pt population. I applied for an oncology infusion job, interviewed and was hired on the spot. I was very excited to finally be headed in the direction I want to be in. I started last week working around my other job (I was afraid to give it up) and am wondering if maybe I made a bad move. This place has recently been through a big staff turnover (an NP and RN left and I think it was a little ugly although I have little to no details) and now the other NP whom I am working under (and supposed to be trained by) is short staffed and being pulled in every direction. Needless to say she does not have much time to stop and explain things to me so I am trying to observe and absorb as much as I can. In the 5 shifts I have been there I have seen things that make me nervous. I cant say the NP follows propper protocol and I am scared that this is who I am learning from. Some things are blatant like not always wearing gloves, no gowns when mixing or hanging chemo and other things are not so obvious since I have never been in this environment. My question is did I make a mistake? Should I stay and be happy to have the opportunity to learn whatever I can? Should I just take it with a grain of salt and bear with it until something else comes along? If I stay how do I make sure I am following proper protocol? (I do not want to do anything to risk my health or license) I know in this economy you cant afford to be picky and any skill is better than no skill....or am I wrong? any guidance would be great. Also any suggestions on books, skills courses etc would be great. I am in the phila region. THANKS!!!

[it's hot in phoenix]

I have had a similiar situation, I have had 3 nursing directors and 3 cno's in a year, along with 2 ceo's. At first, I was a little freaked out and then I took a step back and realized it was not about me and I love my patients. There are days, that I just go into work, take care of my patients and go home. I pray for strength everyday in the parking lot, before going upstairs and after a year, a positive change is beginning. Just remember- our problems can never be bigger than our patient's:yeah::yeah:

[annacat]

I think you are wise to question wheather you want to learn from someone who doesn't follow protocol.

I have learned from some one who does and I am so gratefull. My patients notice and comment on it.

Following protocol helps you feel confident and relaxed. If possible read the protocols from time to time and if you realize that you have been doing it wrong correct yourself asap.

You are in a tough situation. If you don't absolutely have to keep the job for money I would look for something else. But if you don't really have that option make the best of the situation. Challenge your self to learn the right way to do things. I know it is difficult when you don't have good people to ask at work.

This is a great forum to ask questions and get feed back!