When is it time to try something new?

[Kaylyn126]

I started my first ever nursing job on a cardiac PCU about 6 months ago and feel completely and totally overwhelmed. While I knew that the unit would be a challenge as a new grad, I expected to learn a lot about a variety of different conditions. What I didn't know was that my unit would become a dumping ground for the majority of the severe Covid pts, those going through detox/withdrawl from drugs or alcohol, and those with severe mental health disorders. I didn't know that my unit would constantly be short staffed in terms of both RNs and techs, resulting in higher pt ratios when the normal ratio already felt like too much for me. I'm normally a very positive person, but with all the stress and anxiety, I'm having a hard time going into work with a positive outlook and am projecting an attitude that I don't really care for. I feel that the unit I am currently on is toxic to my mental health and that I need to get out. That the intensity is just a little too much for me coming right out of school.  But is this the right choice? I don't really know. I have a hard time seeing things getting better any time soon. Does anyone have advice regarding how to survive in a position that you hate? I have been looking into other opportunities but don't know how long it will take for a good fit to come along. 

[JKL33]

1 hour ago, Kaylyn126 said:

I'm normally a very positive person, but with all the stress and anxiety, I'm having a hard time going into work with a positive outlook and am projecting an attitude that I don't really care for.

I think it's big of you to admit that you don't like what you are projecting. I think it's very relevant that you consider yourself a person with a positive outlook most of the time. This makes me sad; I think there are a lot like you who (making an assumption here) have a decent or nice life, live with some degree of gratitude and positive outlook and have positive personal relationships, etc., but at some point what is going on is just too much for a lot of people. It is upsetting because it doesn't take exorbitant resources to make things tolerable--just resources that people refuse to commit.

Anyway. What to do. It's up to you but I favor continuing to get your experience as long as you are holding your own (not being counseled about significant errors, etc.), as long as things are generally safe (even though not ideal) and as long as people are basically cooperative (management isn't badgering you, coworkers trying to work together) as best they can be under the circumstances. Put out feelers in the meantime to gauge what other options might be available.

While you are at work, take each day and each hour (even each minute) one at a time. You can only do what you can do. Work on honing prioritization. Do your best and let the rest go. Rest and don't perseverate on work when you're not there.

[DNPFNPBC]

I would recommend speaking honestly with your nurse manager. I’ve assisted a few new nurses who felt this way to move to Med/Surg. I think it’s important to acknowledge when nurses are not OK before we burn them out entirely too early. Best of Luck!