Stick a fork in me, I'm done

[nursej22, MSN, RN]

After 22 years in the same hospital, 15 on the same nursing unit, I've had it. Tomorrow morning I'm going to polish up my resume and apply to the 2 local nursing schools to be an instructor. I feel like a great weight has lifted now that I've made the decision. I almost left a year ago, but it didn't seem quite right. But midway through this evening's shift I realized, that's it.

I'm tired of every day has to be one crisis after another; prima donna nurses who are too good to sign-off orders, restart bad IVs, give immunizations, notify MDs about abnormal vs, or even answer their calls; MDs who don't do their job; family members who demand a private audience with the doc; placating angry patients who are starving, want to go home, or just plain don't like the rude hospitalist.

I'm tired of caring, of change only for the worse, weekends, holidays, coming in early, staying late, feeling guilty for calling in sick.

Good golly, I feel almost giddy. Anyone care to join me?

[WoosahRN, MSN, RN]

Congratulations on a decision that brings you peace. It's good to feel that instant knowledge that it's the right one. Good luck to you!

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

This sounds wonderful!! Best of luck to you in your journey, and let us know how it goes!

[scifispam]

Congrats and good luck!!!

[Ruas61, BSN, RN]

It's great you know when it is time to find another pasture.

Sometimes that little voice knows.

All the best.

[1fastRN]

Sounds like you work with some lazy nurses! Definitely time to move on. Best of luck! Hope you find the right place and you're off to a refreshing start!!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Definitely time to re-charge your batteries. Sounds like you are still in love with nursing, but have grown to hate your job. This is a pretty familiar scenario, especially for those of us that are 'highly tenured' - LOL.

Your experience and knowledge are going to be a wonderful asset for your students!

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

I can feel the euphoria from here!

Good luck in your new endeavors.

[Altra, BSN, RN]

Go get 'em! Best of luck to you!

[amygarside]

Wish you all the best in your chosen career. You'll do best on where you think you can do the best.

[Hpy_Vly_RNBSN]

I'm sure you will foster a great group of new nurses who have more care in them and less prima donna!

[nynursey_]

I'm doing a little dance myself today. I've decided I no longer want to drive 2 hours to work in a place that doesn't appreciate the time and effort I put into perfecting my craft!

Celebrate!