MsStella

it's my understanding that it's not illegal for employers to give details (positive or negative) about past employees, they are just strongly encouraged by their attorney's not to give performance reports for fear of litigation. so many opt to only provide just the basic facts - name, date, eligibility for rehire, etc. (of course, this is the very reason so many nurse and health care serial killers have had such luck moving from facility to facility even though they were suspected of doing such terrible acts). did she say that he actually called you "stupid"? i would wager that that does most certainly not fall within any hospitals' policy and procedure guidelines, so i would at the very least write a letter to the hr dept. and his cno. that should at least keep him from sabotaging any new prospects you have. however, i would encourage you to seriously consider your next employment. not everyone is suited to every nursing position. to me, the best thing about nursing is the vast variety of specialties and working environments. maybe you need to start in a slower paced, less stressful area until you get your bearings. there is certainly no shame in that, and it is much more honorable than insisting on working where you know you are in over your head and end up harming someone! although, it's probably harder to find these days, there are still hospitals, clinics, etc. that will offer extended orientations when needed. i'd be honest in your interviews, telling them that you may have not been completely prepared for that area, but stress that you are a very hard worker and will do whatever it takes to learn all you need to know to become a good nurse. and then, of course, live up to that promise :) best of luck to you.