Why I'll Probably Quit Nursing
There's been a lot of recent discussion about nursing salaries and the nursing shortage. I wanted to chime in because (a) I love to over-simplify things, and (b) I am on the verge of becoming one of those nurses they refer to - the kind who works 2-3 years after school and then quits. The reasons aren't complicated. Here's why I'll probably end up quitting:
- The money sucks.
- It takes its toll on you physically.
- I don't want to work nights, weekends, or holidays.
3 comments
Nursing responsibilities increase every day while our staff gets downsized and we are maxed out every time we show up for work. There is never an easy day- just feel lucky if no one died on your shift and hope you charted every thing your- supposed to do- and if your lucky you do about 1/2 because your responsibilities increase daily.
Let's face it doctor's do not even have to show- just call you to make the decisions about their patients care.We are the lifeline for every patient on the floor. And the nurses that stay are type A with attitudes- the super nurses that can't be replaced. But they aren't able to do their jobs either.
There is not a real shortage- that is the Hospital Administrations excuse after sending 3 nurses home (staffing down) to max out the rest of the staff without considering the acuity of patients- just the number of warm bodies.
I want my life back. I love the patients but I am miserable with an aching back, tired, missing my kids and husband, working long hours, under payed(I have to know everything the doctor's do for 1/5 their pay and babysit them too.), and when I am off I am too tired to do anything. And to think I studied my butt off for this.
And to make matters worse I cannot remember ever being thanked by my supervisor for a job done really well.
HOWEVER..........even in light of all this.............I still would rather do nothing else! No....I am not crazy. I just love being a nurse:
The variety in this seemingly thankless career choice is endless....so many areas in which to perform my skills, or learn new ones. The learning and challenge never ends...can never say I am bored!
Unlike any other profession, I come home each day knowing I made a difference in someone's life...sometimes, a profound difference. I sleep very well because of that simple fact, regardless of whether I receive any form of recognition.....I KNOW I am a fabulous nurse! All it takes is that random smile...or even a thank-you...from a patient that keeps me going. And, I like that about me. Cannot imagine being any more fulfilled doing ANYTHING else.
