TristleRN

If complaints end up in your file and you are actively working on taking care of them (real or perceived c/o as they may be), you should also have the right to respond, also in writing, and have that inserted into your file. I would keep copies of all communications and attempts on your part; of course, include that you discussed one on one with the charge nurses for details, and yet they denied having any specific issues (include dates etc., just so you can keep track of the time line). Also, to avoid burning bridges, have a chat with your manager if she thinks that this unit is a poor fit for you and if she suggested you transfer to another unit. She may feel less threatened if it looks like the idea to move his hers. Sometimes, if they know you are looking to leave, the situation can improve... yes, not always, but sometimes. For example... I was denied a raise at a previous job, even though I strongly felt I was not being paid for my education and experience. Long story short... when I put in my month notice (to be nice), I was pulled into HR and offered a 5 1/2% raise. (A little late).

I agree; I have worked home care and really enjoyed the job... love seeing this side of the hospital... however, the documenting is ridiculous. I tend to write very long narratives that give a detailed story... in addition the time it takes to do OASIS and all the other stuff that are required to be done on SOC. I was told by higher ups that I documented "too much." In frustration, I shrug my shoulders. The physical therapists make a lot more money than I do despite my almost 30 years' experience and their charting is so much better.... minimalistic compared to ours.

Are you burned out? ... or could you be depressed? Not having motivation to do anything or not finding enjoyment in your regular activities sounds like depression to me. I'm certain that the stress you are under with having an ill husband only exacerbates things. In regards to all the other "typical" advice about taking care of yourself...well, you have to take care of yourself! Call your MD and discuss this...maybe you need just a little extra help.

How about starting a weight loss support group within your hospital? or even your unit? It would probably be (besides online support) the fastest and easiest way to go about it. I have done this in the past and it's nice to have comrades you can talk to. I know it would be challenge to have "meetings" at work; but at lunch, brief meet after work, etc. It can even be something that you all "sign up" for and hold each other accountable. I've seen it done several ways. On a side note... stress, as you know, messes with the hormones, cortisol, etc... contributing the weight gain. Take some time for yourself; learn to meditate; leave work at work; get a massage, etc. Even when you take a quick break at work, taking a few moments to zone out or decompress or deep breathing can make a difference. Now..... to try to practice what I preach. :-)

Very late reply and I haven't had a chance to paw thru other responses.... it sure sounds like you are with the wrong agency. Home health is a unique and challenging world. So much so, that retention is difficult for most agencies (that's another issue).... they must have no issue retaining staff if they would dare treat you like that. Knowing all the prep work you did before you started, I can't believe the DON said what she did. Most of that stuff, you don't need.... the agency should supply you with all your equipment and supplies. I have been in home care for 2 years after almost 3 decades in the hospital. I love the work, but the charting is extenstive and I never feel like I am finished. It is a priviledge to work with people in the home and I love that end of it. I admit that recently, I went back to work in the hospital for primarily financial reasons, but I'm hoping to stick around on a per diem basis. Good luck, and don't be afraid to vote with your feet and look for an agency that treats you like the valuable asset you are!

Regarding OASIS, the class for that is a day or two. It's extensive and I know that our supervisors etc are sent to it, but the field nurses and therapists are not. It would certainly benefit all to go.

I'm amazed at how unsupportive your employer seems to be. Most home health agencies have difficulty retaining nurses for the EXACT reasons you have complained about. I almost felt I had written that complaint myself! I have been a home care nurse for 2 years... I still struggle, the OASIS questions themselves do not mention all the things that can be considered when assessing a client's abilities. My office and higher-ups always send back charts for me to "approve" because they have found evidence in my documentation to rate the client at a more acute level for whatever it is. Anyway, I also chart many hours into my home time, late at night. I've been told I do document too much and I've been working on being less wordy. I try to do as much in the home as possible, but, I too, hate to have the client have to "stare" at me because I'm charting on a computer. And, as you know, all that extra charting is not compensated. And...on top of all that... it seems like we are still never fully done.... always needing to do prep for the next day, calling clients to set up appts, f/u for phone calls that were never returned, etc. But opposite of your experience, my employer/supervisors have always been so supportive!...which is the way it should be! I've never felt I could not go to anyone. and 6-7 points per day is an unrealistic expectation for a nurse that has only been there 8 months...especially if any of those points are a SOC, ROC, or RECERT. I'd be tempted to find a more supportive employer.

Hi, I appreciate the input. I'm keeping an open mind and want to give this a fair chance. Any good resources out there so I can get a jump on learning?

Hi, I've seen similar threads but would love any specific input for me. I've been an RN for 25 years, all with the adult population....limited pediatric exposure, mostly due to being on an IV team. Not sure what possesses me, but now I've accepted a NICU position (I have not started yet). I enjoyed that part of my rotation in school but oddly enough, never considered it for a career. I know it's a new world. I know neonates are not small adults. I know that a premie that looks fine now, can turn the tables in a split second. I worry about my ability to successfully acclimate to the new setting when I know that, while I'm not a new grad and have years of experience, I will feel like a fish out of water. I would love to hear others experiences with switching to an entirely different world. I'm sure there are pros and cons to all. Thanks!

Hi, I've been an RN for 25 years...all with the adult population. I've worked on an IVT both per diem and full time the past 11 years with some peds mixed in due to that. I am now about to try out NICU soon for the first time. I'm nervous about my ability to acclimate to the new environment as it's an entirely different world.