JcorbinRN

Hey everyone. So, I have been stressing over this lately more than I would like to! Recently at work, I've been told that I HAVE TO be oriented and start performing in the role as charge nurse. I have been a nurse for about 5-6 years, but am new-ish (in my opinion) to the hospital setting. I've only worked at this hospital for 18 months, switched floors (which is a specialty floor) about 6 months ago ( from nights to days shift too)! I feel like these other new factors haven't been considered as well? I also think the only reason they want me to do charge is because we lost a nurse who often did charge and we worked the same weekends. Also, I am a younger nurse considering age/experience compared to other nurses on the floor (who have been very supportive, we all work well together, thank God!) So we are rotating this responsibility. Of note, the more senior nurses who have worked this floor over 10 years + often complain that "charge sucks, hate doing charge" basically negative and general disdain for this position. I did express that I did not feel ready for charge but was told that it's time and that I have the support of my supervisor (which is half truth). I feel like I can't complain about it until I've at least done a few shifts of charge, (I've done about 5 so far). I'm trying to find a solution to this, as the days where I don't have to charge, I am relieved, and love my job! Whereas the days I have to do charge my stomach is turning, and I'm miserable because I am stressed and feel like I am spread more thinly and would prefer to be with my patients than playing secretary and room assigner. Anyways, I'm trying to blow some steam as well as get any input from others willing to share in any support or tips for how to make the role of Charge with full assignment a little easier? Any words and insight are much appreciated!

The other day I was assessing a patient's orientation, when asking her the month... She said : "March." Me: "Today is May 5th, Do you know the year?" patient: "Well honey, I'm blind, I can't see the calendar!" Touche, she did have mac. degeneration. patient:1 nurse:0

"How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these." - George Washington Carver This quote reminds me of the work that we do and how empathy serves as a useful tool, especially on those days where we may feel a little more stressed or rushed. So true!