Stress and Burn Out

sjs2574 · May 7, 2013

I can tell you from firsthand experience how stress affected my life. I have been working in dialysis since graduation (well, technically 6 months after graduation; jobs are hard to come by). I recently made the decision to go back to school full time. It could not be a more perfect time, because I was DONE with my job. My manager gave a bad name to managers everywhere and the patients had no respect for any of the staff due to the lack of management. I was lucky to find my "way out" when I did. My health was starting to suffer and so were my relationships. I am 23 years old and I was in bed by 7:30 every night.

Anyways, as for preventing the situation: know your limits. I know that it is difficult making a decision like this. I had reached my breaking point and had to leave my job. Don't let yourself get to the point that I got to. I tried to "hang in there", but it was not right for me. If your gut is telling you that something is not right, it probably isn't. I know it can be hard leaving due to the lack of nursing jobs. Sometimes it's the best thing.

Another recommendation would be to look for a mentor. I had no mentor at my job and basically learned from the travel nurse who was there for 4 weeks and taught myself the rest. Having a mentor who will help train you and be a "shoulder" for you will be a better asset than you will know. Have good nurse friends who can listen to your issues will help, too. Friends and family help, but they just don't understand like other nurses do. Hope this helps you!

hardev · May 8, 2013

I agree with [COLOR=#003366]sjs2574 about having a mentor. you said it really well . Mosly its common sense stuff such as taking short breaks, Dont expect anything from anyone, Be helpful to others etc etc. In addition to that you must have to have people skills which is very benificial.

Guests · May 8, 2013

As a new grad going out into the work force how do you keep yourself from stress and burn out. You here that happens a lot these days about the huge percentage of new grad's burning out and stop practicing nursing. How do you prevent this stress and burn out from happening?

I don't have the luxury of not working so I simply refuse to permit myself to 'burn out' and choose to stop working.

I have been unemployed before and my job - with a regular paycheck - can never be as bad as not having a job.

Sometimes I think we're becoming a nation of wimps and that people need to suck it up and do what needs doing.