does this unit sound safe to you?

woknblues · Sep 19, 2008

I need some advice...
I just recently moved and I am starting my new job on a post-surgical unit. My background is a year+ on a tele floor, so I have ZERO surgical experience (except post CABG). The educator and director stated to me I would get some education, none of which has materialized. I am only with my preceptor 5 shifts, 3 of which I have completed. I feel lost on the unit, and uncomfortable taking care of these patients. I have not been able to completely practice my charting because they can't seem to get me a password. They are short on nights and days and seem like they want me to start working ASAP.
Also... they have several new nurses working on days. One of which we recieved patients from the last 2 nights. Both nights the day nurse had made several med errors and other mistakes that I had to call the doc about (who ends up yelling at me for her mistake). And I have been treated very rudely by other nurses there. I hate to just "give up" on something... but I feel like even if I demand more time with my preceptor and demand some education that it's still not going to fix anything. I really get the feeling that my license would be in jeopardy there... what would you do?
I'm thinking about giving up on hospitals altogether...

Three shifts and you don't have it under control? Just kidding.

All I can to is say to you keep strong. I am set to graduate and this is my number one concern, way, way, beyond dollar/hour. I am scared to death that a hospital will give me a song and dance, seduce me and toss me to the wolves after a "thorough" 5 day preceptorship (or 3, "Get 'er done!"). Yikes. Best of luck.

mama_d, BSN, RN · Sep 19, 2008

Gah. Not sure what to tell you there.

My standard line when a doc is yelling at me about something I didn't do is "Sir/Ma'am, I am bringing this matter which I discovered to your attention in an attempt to rectify it. I cannot take responsibility for what another nurse did/didn't do, but I can work with you to try and ensure the best patient outcome in this situation." Usually it works.

barefootlady, ADN, RN · Sep 20, 2008

You have to be honest and let the NM know you do not feel ready to accept a group of patients of your own and you need more orientation. See what happens, they may be more than willing to work with you. Then, if things get no better, request a transfer to tele, or quit. Hope things get better soon. Blessings.

military girl · Sep 24, 2008

I have been a RN for 7 years now, but I can still remember the first time starting on orientation. I was fortunate that I worked for the hospital as an LPN for 5 years before going back to school.

The most important thing that YOU CAN DO FOR YOU IS TO ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF.

Hospitals want you to start to work as quickly as possible, but only you know your comfort level. As you stated in your post, you feel lost. Don't let that feeling prevail. If you need more orientation time, then ask for it. It benefits everyone in the long run, you by being more confident and the hospital because they will have a better trained employee.

I was in your situation before and know exactly how you feel. You don't want to ask for more time because you feel like they are pressuring you. Don't put your license on the line, remember you had to work hard to get it, work just as hard to protect it.