Struggling and so exhausted

[icuRNdanielle]

I recently started a new job in the ICU as an RN. Before that, I was in medsurg. My preferred schedule was 2 on, one off, one on so I was never doing 3 in a row. However, since starting this new ICU position, I have had to do 3 in a row multiple times and shifts go from 6am-6pm (at my other job it was 7–7). I have been so BEYOND exhausted. I had a full blown panic attack at work the other day while helping with a procedure and thought I was going to pass out. Then on my way home, I was zoning out and barely able to get there before passing out on the couch. Also, even though I make sure I get 8 hours of sleep in between shifts, it’s like it doesn’t even matter! I feel like I am constantly running on 5 hours or less. Even on my days off, I am super sleepy and just feeling like I’m in recovery mode so I am not able to enjoy the things I used to. I don’t know what to do. I feel so stupid because all of my other coworkers just do it and have been doing it for 10+ years. Being this exhausted 24/7 makes me hate my job and I dread having a work day come up. How do I fix this?! And no, I don’t have thyroid problems or any other health issues.

[asoundchoice]

It gets easier, but not by a lot LOL. You can try to squeeze in some exercises into your routine and see if that helps with your energy level. You're going to have days where you are completely drained and defeated. That's just an inescapable part of critical care.

[John2018]

Be kind to yourself, if you need to recover then do it. Don't stress yourself out for not being able to do things that usually do. By the time you are able to adjust with the workload and everything, then squeeze in those activities you want to do.