Overworked at SNF! Should I stay or leave?

[Thank_You_RNs]

I am an RN with less than 6 months of experience. After months of applying to many hospital jobs, I ended up getting a job at this SNF facility. I know I should be happy because I have a job during this bad economy. Plus I have a family to support. However, the job workload is just too much for me to handle. I don't even take breaks or lunch because of too much things to do. Also, I don't even get off on time because I am slow in passing meds (I double check with MAR). The other day, I ended up overstaying for 2 hours because of med pass. Then you have these demanding patients whom if you're behind with their medication & PRN pain meds, you will hear yelling and cursing across the room. Honestly, I feel like quitting already. I have only worked there less than a week ago and I am on my own already. They only gave me 2 days of orientation. Basically, I am doing an LVN job as a charge nurse with 3 CNAs. I remember one of the CNA wishes me, "goodluck" because I am on my own already. I bet he felt sorry for me. Has anyone worked in a SNF facility and felt the same way??? How did it worked out for you??? If you were in my shoes, would you stay or leave??? Please I need advice ASAP!

[smilenurse1]

Good for you! I am glad that you have made a right choice. The rest of the nurses all agree that you were in risk of loosing your license if something has gone wrong. Hang on there..and look around. There are some SNFs that are better run that the one that you went to. However, do a more close investigation prior to working for any institution. For new grad, the institution should provide enough training. If not, it may be a sign that this particular institution does not value nursing as a profession. Or, it is in some bad financial situation. My school mate went to work for a SNF in Palms Spring and absolutely loves what he does.

Good luck finding another job....

[caliotter3]

If you leave, what are you going to do for a job? I remember feeling the way you do. I would cry on the way home and cry on the way to work sometimes. Believe me when I say it will get better with time. You will get faster with your med passes the more you do them. Everything will come faster to you the more you do it. Think of ways to improve the work flow. Make yourself an example binder like I did. Praise the CNAs when they do a good job and when they go out of their way to give you valuable information. When you get the CNAs on your side you will get a lot of help. Just keep at it and remind yourself how much better it is to be bringing home a pay check than to be wasting your time and gas for your car looking for nonexistent work.