Quitting bedside nursing and don't know what to do next. HELP

[Miracle91, BSN]

Quitting bedside nursing and don't know what to do next.  HELP

This site has helped me through nursing school and during my nursing career, now I am in need of your assistance and advice.

I have officially decided to quit bedside nursing due to the stress and strain on my mental health (anxiety, panic attacks). It was a hard decision to make, I learn so much and I really love being a ICU nurse and caring for patients. I just need a low stress job that is less stain on my body and mind.

For me, the stress of bedside nursing caused me to have difficulty in sleeping, and didn't want to be around people when I was off of work (self isolation, because I felt so over stimulated). All the stress had me questioning my decision on being a nurse in the first place. After the first 2 year COVID lock down, I notice that I was having anxiety attacks and panic attacks at work, some times it was so bad that I would have to walk away, go to the bathroom to calm down. (Some nurses suffered anxiety, panic attack and PTSD, depression due to the stress, we supported each other the best we could during those times).  When I talked to family and friends they just don't understand the stress that my job causes.

At work I even tried (for 6 months) to go from full time to part time or contingent but I was consistently denied and told there was no job openings available. So I started going to therapy, and both me and my therapist agreed that quitting was the best option.

I am 2 weeks away from freedom and I am excited. I am going to take a few months off and focus on my mental health and the next steps I will take.

I don't know any low stress jobs that are hiring in my area (Detroit, MI), or even where to start looking any help or suggestions will be appreciated. (feel like I am starting from square 1 all over again)

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

Anxiety and panic attacks increasingly common among nurses in these covid times. See your seeing a therapist, please also check in with your PCP rule out medical condition too.   Care for yourself first in order to effectively care for others.  Take the time you need to destress and regain well being --don't rush into a position.

Private duty home health might be a good option for low stress job with your ICU experience,  however most patients are pediatric.  Consider  hiring a nurse career coach to determine which type position best suits your personality and family considerations.

Use your network: nursing colleagues, prior nursing instructors, to let everyone know you are looking for next nursing adventure.  Place profile on Linked in.

Visit allnurses job board

Since your in Michigan, know my prior employer Trinity Health's main office was in Livonia, Michigan and usually had jobs posted in your state.  Indeed.com always has RN positions posted too.

Wish you success in obtaining nursing position to use your talents.

[Miracle91, BSN]

Thank you for the response, I am taking a few months off before I get back into nursing.  I will look into your recommendations. 

Thanks again

[HiddenAngels]

I agree with NK. Especially regarding the nurse coach idea. Seems like you are taking the right steps needed for YOU!! Stay Encouraged (hugs)

[turtlesRcool]

Have you thought about going into an outpatient setting or a procedural area? With your ICU experience, you might be a strong candidate for something like cath lab. There are also RN jobs in low(er) stress areas that can be located within the hospital setting like outpatient infusion, radiation oncology, ambulatory surgery, etc. where most of the patients are stable and are usually there for less than a full shift.

[MaiMags]

I felt the same way when I was working in a busy hospital, I worked night shifts, and I have trouble sleeping during days, I experience depression and anxiety, I feel don't like going back to work and I always thinking about work during my day off, I quit my job amd transferred to outpatient and I worked during days, and It makes a big difference and I feel better and not having anxiety.

Maria Lourdes Magistrado said:

 

 

[MaiMags]

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