NICU Nurse Switching to Oncology

[babygirl2014]

Hi everyone, I have 1 year experience in the NICU out of nursing school and after 4 months of looking for jobs, I have an offer at a small oncology clinic (most RN positions want 2 years experience which is why I have been finding it hard to find jobs). There are 2 nurses on staff and 1 is leaving for a new job while the other is looking to retire soon. My dilemma is that I would want to rely on the one who is retiring to train me since I don't know anything about cancer patients, but she plans on leaving as late as June. Plus, since this isn't a hospital that has straightforward policies and rules, I would find it difficult to make sure I am protecting my license. This is a clinic setting, very relaxed, mostly paperwork and hooking them up to their medicinal treatments. I am having a hard time on making my decision to work there or not. Any insight from oncology nurses would be much appreciated. Thank you!

[Wuzzie]

Are you on good terms with your parents? You’re making some rash decisions that could have a long term impact. I’m not piling on you. This is exactly what I would say to a kid of mine. Nursing isn’t at all cut throat in general. NICU can be for sure. Do you even want to be a nurse? Did you want to when you entered school? If so what has changed?

[babygirl2014]

I am on good terms with my parents. I went into NICU fresh out of nursing school and it was very intense, in addition to it being night shift. This was a complete lifestyle change for me. I chose nursing as a career because I felt that I could learn the skills and help people. But on the actual job, I felt burnt out because of the night hours and horizontal violence "bullying". I understand that every work place has politics and I tried to do the best with the cards I was dealt, but there is a point where I have to throw in the towel and find a different solution. I want a day position and thorough training. But if I'm not eligible for the specifics I am asking for then I need a new game plan.

[Wuzzie]

But do you see yourself continuing in nursing for the rest of your work life? If you don't then get out now but first talk with your parents.

[babygirl2014]

I absolutely dislike bedside. I think I can do it with proper training but my heart isn't in it. My parents support whatever I do, but if I decide to leave nursing, I'd rather do it now than later

[MissvalRN, BSN, RN]

Hi there. This is a tough situation because I would not feel comfortable taking it without another experienced nurse to train you. I just started working on a pediatric oncology floor and some of the chemos are nervewracking to work with. There was this nicu nurse who joined the team and lasted only a year because she felt overwhelmed. She worked as nicu nurse for about 25 years so I think that’s why she left back to nicu. The good thing is you’re still young so I am sure you’ll adapt well. My advice is to make sure the nurse who is about to retire will train you. Give it a shot and you will know during your training if you feel this is for you. Oncology patients require more work because you must be vigilant in their care but it can be very rewarding too. I wish you good luck and if it is meant to be you will know.