Staying Positive in Nursing

ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP · Dec 2, 2015

My job sucks and the working conditions are poor, BUT...

I like my coworkers. I can't say there is even one night shift worker that I dislike or dread working with. For the most part, we have a good time, and we don't take things too seriously.

I work for the state. The benefits are among the best. I have GREAT health insurance (one of my coworkers even admits that if it weren't for the health insurance, she would've quit months ago) and a state pension. I have been at my current position for almost seven months and have already accumulated almost two weeks of vacation (will have by the end of the month!). Overtime is practically unlimited.

Because we are SO short-staffed, the scheduler does her best to give me the schedule that I want (within reason of course). I also LOVE that I only have to come in three nights per week. I have enjoyed six to eight day stretches of time off...it might as well have been a vacation!

The pay is decent...next year, I am slated to gross approximately 60k (without overtime) in a medium cost of living area. This money has allowed me to help my single mother with bills, mortgage, property taxes and my special needs brother. I have also maxed out a ROTH and I am thinking about opening a traditional IRA next year. I have more than enough money to take some really nice vacations abroad (and I plan to!).

In addition, while I dislike med/surg, it is never boring. Even though I hope to work with the neonates, I know that if I can't get a job directly to the NICU, my skills would be very much appreciated in other ICUs, step-downs, clinic nursing, etc plus it makes good experience for grad school. I also like that I am utilizing a lot of different tasks as well as see patients with different diagnoses. I know that it is making me a very well-rounded nurse. :)

NurseIndependa · Dec 8, 2015

I work in the ER, so I am getting a lot of experience in different diagnoses, so many skills and am learning to prioritize. I love my preceptor and she has no burn out even after 30 years as a nurse. This job is really showing me where my interests are regarding nursing and giving me the experience for other roles down the line.

iluvivt, BSN, RN · Dec 8, 2015

I love that I get to help nurses! Yes, I ultimately help the patient get their IV therapies but as a great bonus I get to say. "don't worry I got you a great line". It makes their day a lot easier and they are all so great and appreciative!