Hello, it's been a while since I posted. I'm a new nurse (finished school in Dec, got licensed in late Jan) I was hired at my first job at a LTC in late Feb. After 3 1/2 days orientation, I was on my own. From the first day it was horrible no respect from CNA's, residents cursing at me, and no one to really talk to. After many sleepless nights, I decided to call it quits but ended up changing my mind because I always wanted to be a nurse. My second week was no better, same stuff different day. I feel so weak and disappointed in myself and like a failure. I can't believe I'm letting these people (lazy Cna's) run me off. I can handle the residents b/c they don't mean any harm, but not having the support of my co-workers is what's making me want to leave. I was told that the hospitals are no better, if that's the case I don't think I'm cut out to be a nurse. I really don't know what to do. I'm in my mid 30's and don't know what I'm good at. Isn't that pathetic, I've worked most of my adult life at becoming a nurse (different things in my way) and finally I'm here and couldn't last 30 days at my first jobs. Anyway, thanks for listening (reading) to me. I'll be ok in the morning after a good cry. Sorry So Long.
Three days is pretty standard in my area. Orientation is to get you used to the facility, you are expected to know how to do care and med passes by graduation.
I don't mean to sound harsh but it all comes down to the bottom line. The facility budget.
Ask for more buddy shifts. Get teamed up with an experienced nurse and learn from her. If the facility isn't willing then ask about working casual shifts. One shift a week or whatever to learn the ropes.
I worked casual for the first three or so years just so I could see my kids and be there for them when my husband was deployed. It meant working LTC because they needed the staff more than acute care did and were willing to accomodate me. Once he was in a static job, I got to go to acute care, where I'd always wanted to be.
There is a way around it if you just think about it and prioritize.
It Sucks That U Have To Prove Yourself To Your Coworkers. I Mean U Should Be Able To Come Into A Job With Open Arms. Why Treat One Nurse Different Than The Rest Just Because Your New? Why Do U Have To Gain Their Respect (cna's Are Under Me) Yet Some Act Like Their Above It All. U Come In There To Do A Job, To Care For These Patients, Then Leave. Why Do Jerk Off COWORKER's Have To Be So Mean And Lazy? I'll Get Out Of That Place Asap. And Try Finding A Place Where Whether An Old Or New Nurse You'll Be Respected By Your Coworkers And Teamwork Is Expected Of Everyone And Not A Reward Just For Sticking It Out Through THEIR B.s.
Fiona59
8,343 Posts
Three days is pretty standard in my area. Orientation is to get you used to the facility, you are expected to know how to do care and med passes by graduation.
I don't mean to sound harsh but it all comes down to the bottom line. The facility budget.
Ask for more buddy shifts. Get teamed up with an experienced nurse and learn from her. If the facility isn't willing then ask about working casual shifts. One shift a week or whatever to learn the ropes.
I worked casual for the first three or so years just so I could see my kids and be there for them when my husband was deployed. It meant working LTC because they needed the staff more than acute care did and were willing to accomodate me. Once he was in a static job, I got to go to acute care, where I'd always wanted to be.
There is a way around it if you just think about it and prioritize.