New nurse needs help

[daisy84]

I started my first job in late October and by early Dec. I quit my job. I worked on a medicine floor with 6 patients on day shift. Everytime I was without a preceptor I couldn't keep up with anything. I couldn't get my meds. out on time, I had no idea where or why my patients were going (for procedures and such), and most of the time I didn't even know why they were admitted. The other nurses were wonderful in helping me, but they were taking care of their patients and mine half the time. I asked for night shift to give it a try, but my supervisor said it would only be harder for me. Left with no other options to try, I backed out. Now, I'm starting search for another job, but I'm afraid of another failure and a bad resume. I would like to be a travel RN one day but I know I need experience on a med./surg. floor. I cried all the time on the med. floor and had nightmares every night. I hated it. I have no idea what other floors I should try. How do I know what I will like if I haven't worked any yet. I don't think I'll ever make it as a nurse. I feel like I need to get the basics, but where and how. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks.

[RN_MishMish]

That sounds like a good floor you are working on... in many places you have to adjust to the 5-6 workload fast. That's great to hear there are hospitals out there which allow newgrads to feel comfortable and build good skills & confidence. Good for you !!

[RedhairedNurse, BSN, RN]

I can't imagine why the supervisor said night shift would be harder! I was offered a night shift position after orienting on days and jumped at the chance. It is much easier to organize your thoughts, get meds out on time, do research and really understand why your patient is being treated. Don't get me wrong - I'm not sitting around twiddling my thumbs - as a matter of fact, the first 4-5 hours zoom by because I'm so busy (I do 12 hour shifts) - BUT, it is nowhere near as crazy as it is on days. I am still getting the experience of caring for med-surg patients, but at a much saner pace. Don't give up! You have to give yourself a chance with a more supportive facility. There are lots of other alternatives.

I agree with this post completely. I can't imagine your manager saying nights wouldn't be any better.

I was so stressed orienting on days that I almost quit. I told my husband that if they didn't switch me to

nights that I couldn't handle it anymore. Well, I was able to go to nights very soon after deciding to quit because of days. Nights is so much more conducive to learning. It can get busy, but no where as crazy as days.

No visitor, docs, procedures. I've learned so much on nights that I think I could actually do days now.....but

I won't go to days. I decided that I like working at night.

My advice to you would be to try nights. Don't listen to people when they tell you what you may or may not like. Try anything out at least once and don't give up next time. You'll find a position just right for you. Good luck.