40years

I have been an RN for 40 years. 2 years medical floor, 4 years ER then 34 years in Recovery Room. My advise is to get some basic assessment skills then go to a critical care area for experience. Don't burn out there. Nursing on the floor is harder now because the acuities of patients is higher than when I was young. Going to Recovery Room was the key for me because you have some easy patients to chat with (removal of a mole) to occasional patients on a ventilator. It's not all stress but not too monotonous. You enjoy some patients but still keep up some critical skills. This last year was hard for me because I needed 5 more years and was really struggling with the administrative changes and B.S. we didn't have when I was younger. Recently I decided to go with the flow and MAKE THE MOST of my last 4 years and enjoy my patients. Those that are difficult, I would challenge myself to make a difference in their life. It's not personal. It has really helped me. I'm almost 62 and it's been a good ride but PACE YOURSELF. Make sure if you go home stressed that you have fun in your life and don't take it home with you! You're done for the day. Don't be a martar. Hang in there. Remember ther funny stories and forget the rest and be content with your effort and the difference you made in their lives. Nursing IS HARDER now and I wish I could say more to help. Good luck and God bless to you all.