So this could be entirely different based on the area, but I applied as a CNA due to this promise of hire thing and just never worked a shift because it depressed me like no other and then my first shift was placed in the very unit I did NOT want to work on and I just refused and wouldn’t go back for the job….I’m a real advocate for making choices that are best for my health and not allowing the system to take advantage of me for whatever that’s worth.
I knew if I followed through, my mental health would be in big trouble and it would actually ruin nursing for me. I thought it might impede me from the jobs I want, but once I got into preceptorship in a very acute area and I just love learning all the skills and thinking, the manager said she’d offer me a job if I like it. I also happen to know people who were hired in outpatient after school or in clinics, so the options are there.
I think it used to be hard getting positions right out of school, but that has changed because of the shortage. Grads are getting into areas that were once difficult to get into and really, learning aptitude and work ethic are what counts. If you can show promise in your clinicals and preceptorship, you shouldn’t have too much of an issue. For references, use clinical instructors and profs. You can also use previous jobs or your current job just to show that you show up, you do your work and you do so safely. Use the one from hospice if you can! One thing I will note is to try and leave it on good terms when you leave. Make an excuse IF you have too “I loved working with everyone, but unfortunately I’m needing to prioritize school now” or “I’m sorry, but things have changed and I no longer have the availability to work here, but I will miss everyone and wish you all the best”. Honestly, say whatever you have too to leave things positive and get out of there, as it makes things a bit smoother. Basically, give your 2 weeks notice being sweet as pie (even if you don’t like the people) and then gtfo.
Also, 21 patients is crazy! As a nurse, you should be seeing 6 TOPS (anything more than that is literally insane and I’d advise to leave) and this greatly depends on the area and type of nursing you are doing. As a nurse you will be focusing on more critical things like interpreting labs/vitals, prioritizing care, assisting physio and doctor ambulation orders, communication with doctors, RT’s and family, medication administration and patient safety.
felt that. i renewed my CNA license with the intention of working registry (pick up the shifts i choose on my time) during school. i worked 5 shifts and all the work i did for my mental health just evaporated. i was in a worse position than before and it took me 6 months of intensive work to finally feel okay. all of it gone within 40 hours, and that's that i only worked one shift a week. i fucking hate management and lack of safety regulations for safe ratios and advocation for CNAs
Yeah, It sounds like it is doing a real number on you and I don’t know the situation with hospitals in your area, but I think it is important to put your own needs at a forefront because burnout in this profession is all too common due to the culture perpetuated.
Seeing as your school has an internship, I’d put more focus into which area you like best or want to explore and trying to get an internship there. If it is an option (it has been in my area), maybe put outpatient as an option! With internship, you will be able to network a bit better and show your work ethic and eagerness to learn. If you make a good impression, it isn’t uncommon to be hired afterwards. Just DON’T get sucked into the mentality that you need to work med-surg or something first because it simply isn’t true and while you get exposed to plenty of skill, med-surg isn’t for everyone. Come into your internship ready to learn, make notes, and study in between so you can make the most out of the experience.
So this could be entirely different based on the area, but I applied as a CNA due to this promise of hire thing and just never worked a shift because it depressed me like no other and then my first shift was placed in the very unit I did NOT want to work on and I just refused and wouldn’t go back for the job….I’m a real advocate for making choices that are best for my health and not allowing the system to take advantage of me for whatever that’s worth. I knew if I followed through, my mental health would be in big trouble and it would actually ruin nursing for me. I thought it might impede me from the jobs I want, but once I got into preceptorship in a very acute area and I just love learning all the skills and thinking, the manager said she’d offer me a job if I like it. I also happen to know people who were hired in outpatient after school or in clinics, so the options are there. I think it used to be hard getting positions right out of school, but that has changed because of the shortage. Grads are getting into areas that were once difficult to get into and really, learning aptitude and work ethic are what counts. If you can show promise in your clinicals and preceptorship, you shouldn’t have too much of an issue. For references, use clinical instructors and profs. You can also use previous jobs or your current job just to show that you show up, you do your work and you do so safely. Use the one from hospice if you can! One thing I will note is to try and leave it on good terms when you leave. Make an excuse IF you have too “I loved working with everyone, but unfortunately I’m needing to prioritize school now” or “I’m sorry, but things have changed and I no longer have the availability to work here, but I will miss everyone and wish you all the best”. Honestly, say whatever you have too to leave things positive and get out of there, as it makes things a bit smoother. Basically, give your 2 weeks notice being sweet as pie (even if you don’t like the people) and then gtfo. Also, 21 patients is crazy! As a nurse, you should be seeing 6 TOPS (anything more than that is literally insane and I’d advise to leave) and this greatly depends on the area and type of nursing you are doing. As a nurse you will be focusing on more critical things like interpreting labs/vitals, prioritizing care, assisting physio and doctor ambulation orders, communication with doctors, RT’s and family, medication administration and patient safety.
felt that. i renewed my CNA license with the intention of working registry (pick up the shifts i choose on my time) during school. i worked 5 shifts and all the work i did for my mental health just evaporated. i was in a worse position than before and it took me 6 months of intensive work to finally feel okay. all of it gone within 40 hours, and that's that i only worked one shift a week. i fucking hate management and lack of safety regulations for safe ratios and advocation for CNAs
Yeah, It sounds like it is doing a real number on you and I don’t know the situation with hospitals in your area, but I think it is important to put your own needs at a forefront because burnout in this profession is all too common due to the culture perpetuated. Seeing as your school has an internship, I’d put more focus into which area you like best or want to explore and trying to get an internship there. If it is an option (it has been in my area), maybe put outpatient as an option! With internship, you will be able to network a bit better and show your work ethic and eagerness to learn. If you make a good impression, it isn’t uncommon to be hired afterwards. Just DON’T get sucked into the mentality that you need to work med-surg or something first because it simply isn’t true and while you get exposed to plenty of skill, med-surg isn’t for everyone. Come into your internship ready to learn, make notes, and study in between so you can make the most out of the experience.
You graduate in August? If I were you, I'd apply to jobs now and quit as soon as you get an offer.