Quit or get fired?

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I find myself at my first job on a unit where constant complaining and talking behind each other's backs is the norm. I have tried to resist joining in because I don't want to get caught up in the negativity.

After being on orientation for four out of twelve weeks, (and working under SIX different preceptors, due to schedule issues), I'm being told I have great skills but concescending attutude - no specifics.

I'm shocked because I thought everything was fine. Everyone is nice to my face, but I guess they are talking trash about me.

Is it better to quit this soon or possibly be told it's not a good fit during the next eight weeks? How will it effect my chances of getting another job either way?

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i think it's better that you leave.

once you start receiving this type of 'feedback' during orientation, it's usually indicative of more to come.

and considering that you are refusing to participate in the pack mentality around you, it sounds like it could potentially become a toxic work environment.

it's up to you, whether you choose to put this on your resume or not.

since it's a probation period, you are not legally bound to do so.

wishing you the very best.

leslie

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Be careful about what "everybody" says. "Everybody" probably does not include every member of the staff-probably a couple of nurses with attitude problems.

Don't be too quick to judge were you work until you know who you are dealing with, and who you can turn to and who you should avoid.

There could be one or two persons who are troublemakers and the rest of the staff could be supportive and helpful.

My general rule is never quit a job without another one lined up unless you are being mistreated(more than snide remarks here), or are being pushed into unsafe practice.

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PSYCH, PP, CEN.

I have girlfriends who went through 6 jobs their first two years out of school. They always just told the next interview that it wasn't a good fit.

In most areas of the country nurses are in short supply and most places will take you no matter what.

I have had many incidences where they did not even check my references.

I would stay for a while and see how things shape up. What you describe is fairly common. Learn everything you can on this job so you will be that much more experienced and able to handle what ever comes up at your next job.

Good luck with it all

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think of this as just one of those "growing"experiences in nursing and make it possible to learn from this "special opportunity" for you. if you enjoy the floor and are able to ignore all the bickering from only certain staff, then i would advise you to talk with the manager and get more specifics from her about your "alloofness" and get exactly what she expects from her staff. i would keep the talk only about you and would bring up your opinions of the staff only if she asks. then, work, do your job, and join in the staff talks only if you choose to do so. give it some time and see how you feel later. if, on the other hand, you are not wild about the floor, then talk with the manager, tell her how you are feeling (be honest), put all this in writing for the manager and hr, and then figure out where you would like to go. always leave a position on open and positive terms if possible. your attitudeis what makes it positive and you will be able to grow from this experience. it will happen again and you will know what to do. that's just all the ends and outs of having a job. good luck and i know you will make the right choice for you.:icon_hug:

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Specializes in Community, Renal, OR.

Hi,

I agree that it might be worth talking to your unit manager. Things you could bring up are that your orientation wasn't as cohesive as you had hoped and that you would like some feedback about your performance so far. If there are deficiencies that she identifies, ask her about ongoing support and education to help you.

Keep everything on a professional level at work and never contribute to the gossiping.

Good luck,

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Specializes in ICU, SDU, OR, RR, Ortho, Hospice RN.

Being on orientation you are going to come across all sorts of conflicting statements.

I am concerned that you have had 6 preceptors. That alone does not make for a good mix for you.

I prefer to have the one preceptor follow along with you the whole time.

Try chatting to your Unit Manager but do not give up or give in.

You are growing and learning all you can.

Maybe your attitude is more of apprehension than anything but I would certainly get this addressed.

Do not fall into the gossipy clique. Do your work and always remain professional.

I wish you the very best in your nursing career *hugs*

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Specializes in critical care; community health; psych.

If you don't know how your attitude is condescending, how are you going to correct it? Ask for examples. Maybe there is something to it or maybe it's a perception thing on the receiving end.

As for gossip, it's everywhere and orientees are the perfect targets for it. I wish it weren't so. It's a vulnerable position to be a new nurse and a new orientee to a unit. Stay or go but I'd learn more first about where this is all coming from and communicate with your manager. It's good practice. Keep your feelers out in the meantime for other possible positions.

I wish you the best. I'm on job #3, year #3. We keep on moving on till we get it right.

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Specializes in Operating Room Nursing.

This is going to sound awful but i have never worked anywhere yet where there is NO constant complaining, whinging and backstabbing. I may sound really cynical but i don't really believe that such a place exists in any workplace. :idea:

It doesn't really sound fair to be told you have a condescending attitude but no examples. That's just going by heresay and not constructive at all.

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Specializes in A myriad of specialties.
This is going to sound awful but i have never worked anywhere yet where there is NO constant complaining, whinging and backstabbing. I may sound really cynical but i don't really believe that such a place exists in any workplace. :idea:

It doesn't really sound fair to be told you have a condescending attitude but no examples. That's just going by heresay and not constructive at all.

I agree with you, Scrubby. I, too, have never encountered a workplace free of complaining, whining, or backstabbing--and that isn't that sad considering we are a "helping profession"?

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I agree with you, Scrubby. I, too, have never encountered a workplace free of complaining, whining, or backstabbing--and that isn't that sad considering we are a "helping profession"?

this is my point exactly.

because she has already received vague complaints of being condescending, w/o offering specifics, it sounds like she doesn't 'fit in' and even could potentially create problems....according to their (very warped) perceptions.

again, it sounds like it may be grossly lacking integrity and any means of genuine encouragement.

if they were honestly trying to be sincere, they would have provided her with examples.

i've seen this too many times, and it usually means trouble for the employee.

get.out.now.

or they'll make meat out of you.

been there, seen it, too many times.

leslie

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Thank you all for the input.

Still not sure what the right thing to do is - but am looking around...

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