Not cut out for NICU

[nurseinFL2567]

So I was wondering what some other nurses opinions were on my current situation. I am a new grad who got the job I wanted in the NICU. Now I'm really feeling like I'm not cut out for it. I'm behind where I need to be in my orientation, so were now extending it. And I feel completely overwhelmed. No matter how hard I feel like I just can't keep up. And no matter how diligent I try to be I just keep screwing up. I keep trying to make sure my temp probes are good PIV are good, and my feeding tubes are good, but every time I turn around something ends up being screwed up and its my fault. I also I'm realizing I don't think I like the ICU setting, I don't like vents, and don't do well with the micros. I'm better with feeder growers yet still overwhelmed. I know people say it takes time but I honestly am feeling like I'm not cut out for this, and wondering if I should transfer or something. I like the babies but I don't like my job at all and feel like I have nothing to hold onto to even keep me going through this rough time. There have been several other new grads in the NICU and they are doing a much better job and are catching on so much faster. And at the end of the day the most important thing is those babies so if I'm not capable the I feel like I should not be there. I'm not the type of person that thrives on the crisis/high intensity situations either. I also feel like I'm being talked about behind my back because of the mistakes I've made. I love caring for people and am very compassionate but am thinking I need to be someplace of lower intensity.

[tinkerbell419]

Keep going hun. Nursing is tough no matter where you work. Neonatal nursing is very specific too. It takes a long time to master the trade. Im new too and im here to offer a friendly ear to you.

Do you have any neonatal books at all? It may help to improve your knowledge base and understanding. Try to take one step at a time, and stay calm. :)

[canned_bread]

This is a truly tough position, and I feel for you.

If you aren't quite liking it, it's very hard to stay on top of everything. You know how when you like doing something, it becomes easier? Maybe it's just not your niche, it's not everyones. Do you have a good educator or facilitator that you could sit down with and discuss, without whinging, your feelings? And discuss why you feel like you are falling behind?