WhoDatRN

As a nursing student, we heard this all the time. We never believed this to be true until we got out there in the real world of nursing. Almost every one of the folks I have graduated with, with FEW exceptions has had a hell of a time starting out with nursing. I was basically fed to the wolves. After my "preceptor" left for personal reasons, I got bounced around to every nurse on my unit,who "precepted" me....on a very busy Critical care unit. Most expected me, as a new grad to know all about A-lines, Ventricular Drains, and everything under the sun. I was basically isolated doing everything for myself, while they stood around chatting, and having coffee. I often had to yell or ask for help when I needed it. It is sad to say, but it gave me a bad taste for nursing, and for that facility. I am still there, but in another unit...with more supportive nurses, thank God, but with poor Admin in the facility as a whole. Sometimes I wonder why I even got into this field. It's like swimming with sharks! Never in my life have I seen more gossip, backstabbing, and BS from grown women, and men...( who actually in general are more helpful in the nursing field...generally) You don't see this as much in any other line of work. I don't expect to have my hand held, but I do expect to have someone there to help, and give guidance. Someone I can ask a question without being told..."um...You don't know that? , What DID they teach you in nursing school anyway?!!!" Yes, I was told this. I DO understand that a "seasoned" nurse has much to do, and are busy, and probably overworked. But, do you remember being new? How scared and nervous you were thinking my God, I just want to get though the day without making a mistake that will harm my patient, or kill them?! Oh, and here is Dr So&So on the phone ready to rip someone's ( MY) head off because we paged him about his patient, or worse not his patient, but who was "consulted" and is ****** because he is on call. Sometimes I think I just want to go be the greeter at Wal Mart. But then I work with my patients...and decide to go back for more abuse. Please someone tell e it gets better than THIS.