Overloaded new m/s nurse.

[jlb~88]

I started on the med-surf floor at my town's local hospital about 6 months ago. I work the evening shift. Our max pt load is 7, although that is not what I was told in my interview. After only a couple weeks of being on my own I had 7 pts, very overwhelming. However, they have now changed it so all RN's take their own vitals and are not allowed to delegate this task. There are many nights where we do not have any techs at all and the nurses have at least 5-6 pts. Many nights I am almost in tears because I want to have time to learn while I'm there and provide great pt care, which isn't possible for me with this load. I feel that my charge nurse either wants to break me down or thinks I am capable of more than I am. I often start my shift with 5 pts get the first admission discharge a pt and get another. There was one night where I got 3 admissions and the other 2 nurses got 1 each and had less pts. There are two other new nurses on my shift that seem to just breeze through (easy pts, lower ratio, less admissions and the charge nurse helps them alot). I have no clue why it seems like I'm treated unfairly. My charge talks friendly to me so I think she likes me, I have no disciplinary issues and I always show up to work and work hard. I could really use some advice because I'm starting to feel drained, resentful, and burned out. I love being a nurse but I really wanted my first job to be a place I could grow and learn

[Underoo]

Ew. If I were in your position, I would be looking for a new place.. a new floor, a new hospital, etc. Med/Surg is hard no matter where you're at, but facilities vary. That ones sounds like it really sucks. 7 patients, no tech, AND you're a new grad? Of course you want to quit, who wouldn't? It will be overwhelming at first anyway, but you do need to think of safety. Do you feel safe providing care in that environment? Do you feel safe having little orientation? Look for experienced nurses who can offer advice when you're unsure (I still do that!), but honestly it may benefit you to look for another place. I'm sorry you're having such a hard time.

[RNReadyManc]

How are things going now? I'm also a new nurse on Med Surg and start on Tuesday. Hope things are slightly better.

[jlb~88]

Thank you everyone for the advice! It really means a lot to have supportive people to turn to. Things have gotten slightly better, because I'm more vocal about how my night and patients are going. The main thing that has changed is my attitude. I've learned that if I concentrate on staying up beat my night goes better. If I stay positive and just focus on one patient at a time instead of the other 5-6 pts I can turn my mood around. The brain sheets that a few of you suggested are so helpful. I know that I will definitely not stay at this place for my entire career, but I'm still trying to figure out ways too learn as much as possible. I have asked my manager to sign me up for all the educational opportunities open to me. The good thing about this place is that so many of the MDs are open and friendly, I feel so comfortable talking to them and learning from them (trust me though we have our nightmare ones also). Although the ones I have formed relationships with are willing to listen to my concerns and actually ask me what I would like to do. I've heard that doctors would start doing this years down the road but it feels great to know that they trust me so soon!!

[jlb~88]

My advice to you as a new nurse is to definitely find a mentor. Get someone who can show you the ropes and how each doctor likes things done. It makes everything go much smoother.

[jlb~88]

Thank you for the brain sheets, there are a few I'm going to try out!

[jlb~88]

Anggelica said:

no, sounds like you got lazy co-workers. That is the story of my shift everyday.

I don't know if they are lazy or just not comfortable taking on more. I have accepted that I'm going to get more so I've adjusted accordingly. My positive outlook has been noticed by my manager, DON and mds. They have complimented me on always smiling and being willing to help. They also tell me what a great job I'm doing and the positive feedback from patients. I'm taking from it that the higher ups are beyond satisfied with my performance so whatever my cn is holding against me doesn't matter, I'm going to fight back with a great work ethic and a smile!

[RNReadyManc]

How long did you wind up staying there? I'm in a similar situation but not with all charges. Some are excellent. After about 9 months I plan to leave. Curious to know what you did.