nurse burnout

[ebrahler1788]

I have been a nurse just about a year. I currently work in LTC. Here in Ohio, most hospitals require at least 1yr experience and BSN preferred.

I recently left my longest employer to go to another LTC facility hoping it would be better. Unfortunately 4hrs into my first day of orientation I realized I had made a mistake and that this is NOT where I see myself. I am constantly crying and second guessing my choice in the nursing profession.

I think I may be happier in a physicians office or I have heard about nurses who work for insurance companies, yet I would not even know where to being to find out those types of opportunities.

I am am hoping someone can help, because I am at my wits end.

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

Plug into your search engine "insurance RN jobs in __________" (whatever state you are in)

See if now that you have been in LTC, if you could transfer to a case managment position within your current company--that could set you up for future transfers into a position for which you may enjoy more.

Finally, don't discount per diem positions. See if you can find a med/surg RN per diem position at your local facility. It would give you some more experience.

Finally, see if you can speak with the office manager of some of the local MD's to which you might like to work. See if they are hiring, and if you can get a position with them.

Best of luck!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

If you are interested in nursing jobs at insurance companies, you can start by visiting the career section of the websites of companies such as Liberty Mutual, Humana, Blue Cross/Blue Shield and United Healthcare. Many of these entities hire and train nurses for jobs in utilization review, claims review and case management.

[staycalm]

ummmm.....NO WAY could I hack staying in LTC or medical for even a year. I'd say start applying in areas of interest, but keep a great relationship with co-workers & supervisors because they will likely be your relevant referrals. If you know someone in a hospital, office, or insurance company- that's the easiest way to get your foot in the door. Typically case management requires a few years, depending on the nursing climate in your area. Don't turn away from nursing just because you don't like where you're at. A different area will seem like an complete career change. You have nearly a year's experience knowledge to put on a resume. Go online to look at nurse resume examples- & use that as inspiration to "brag" on yourself with specific skills, roles, responsibilities you now have!