Quitting nursing and I'm just starting out! Help me!

[LostNurse88]

So I got my LPN in August '13.... Found a job at a drug detox place, didn't like it. I've worked as a cna in a LTC facility but they had no openings until this January and was hired on as a new nurse per diem. I oriented on days on and was overwhelmed. Midway through they offered a 24 hour overnight position split between their ALZ units. I figured it'll be better for me to work up confidence on a less busy shift . They added MORE orientation time to learn their editing process and what not. Other nurses talking **** cuz I've had such a long orientation and not being fast or having to be reminded when to do what paperwork!

I'm overwhelmed. Tonight's my first night off orientation and I feel even more sick to my stomach than before.

I've lost 20 pounds in the last few weeks. I can't eat, sleep, calm down, control the knots in my belly. When I'm home I'm dreading going back, when I'm there I'm nervous and feel like I have no nursing skills and can't make any decisions when things come up. Granted, nothing major has happened but now the pt's all are having URI's and I'm running around taking vitals and assessing giving breathing treatments and have no time to do the "desk" jobs needed for overnight shifts. I'm hating nursing. I'm hating the idea now of being responsible for these ppl lives and not being sure of myself. Plus I'm sooo slow at med pass that my trainer has been doing the "loose" ends of paperwork and shift report. I don't know how imma handle it all tonight. I've been looking for jobs already outside of nursing!! Answering phones, or something! I love my patients, I loved LTC as a cna, it's just not the same being an under confident shaky nurse who's going to be alone overnight making all the decisions!

I don't see myself liking this, getting faster, better. And my fav shift is 3-11, I haven't had any experience dealing with docs and new orders, and all the paperwork I haven't had to do yet, this is all too discouraging. I don't even remember the basics now with all my nerves! What would you guys suggest... Quit? What kind of job should I look for? What else is there in the medical field that'll pay decent and not be such high stress!?

[Penholder]

A couple of questions to ask yourself:

1) Why did you get in to nursing to begin with?

2) do you feel the program you went to prepared you well for being a nurse? Do you still have connections with any of the instructors that you could reach out to?

I am just entering a nursing program in the fall. I have been a CNA for 11 years. I have seen my share of struggling nurses. My only advice-find a nurse that is willing to take you under their wing, but in the mean time focus on organization and time management. I have seen countless possibly great nurses sink because they couldn't prioritize and manage themselves. It is possible to do it.

And feel free to reach out to a counselor/therapist. Everyone I know who has gone through similar trials and used a therapist has come through much stronger and self-assured.

[LostNurse88]

I've thought about a therapist, ive seen people suggest that on here... Other blogs say run away from nursing, it's not worth it. Before all of this I was proud and excited to be responsible and an advocate for my patients. But it's just not exactly what I thought. CNA's don't know the trouble of being a nurse until you actually become a nurse. Idk. I just don't know anymore.

[Penholder]

At least try therapy before you ditch something you worked so hard for.

And maybe this area of nursing isn't the best fit for you. One of the great things about nursing is there is a place for everyone with the drive to succeed. It might not be what you originally intended, but it is there. Since you are an LPN try home care and other areas too. Nursing is a very big sea.

[blessedjoy]

Lost, it sounds to me like it is the job. There are other options out there for a new nurse. You can check with agencies, blood donation centers, home health, doctor offices, health department, immunization clinics and schools. Not all LPNs work in LTC. It is OK if it is not for you, that is not everyone's passion. If you truly want to be a nurse, do it! You worked hard to get your license, don't worry about what others are saying just do the best you can. Keep looking until you find your where you are meant to be. You will know it when you get there.