Stress management.

[Kristjansmama]

I had the worst night imaginable at work yesterday.  It was just terrible and I was right on the brink of tears. 

About me~I graduated from nursing school this past May & I am currently working at a nursing home.

I was already nervous about this shift because I was not working my usual position.  Then, I arrived at report & the more they talk the more I stress.  We have 4 new admits on my wing.  Two of which will be arriving shortly.  There are major behaviors going on and issues galore. 

I finished report and started getting everything set up for my shift.  I was feeling some serious anxiety.  I was pleasantly surprised when all went well....until after dinner.

Suddenly, everyone needs something.  I ve got new meds to check in, new people to care for, & constant interruptions.  By this time I m on the verge of tears.  I just keep plugging along feeling as though I m getting nowhere fast.  I ve got a new resident who suddenly perks up & goes from bedridden to trying to wheel herself all around the facility.  I have to give report & 10 and I m just finishing giving my last few meds at 9:45pm.  YIKES.  

Finally my shift is over & I can go home....only to worry that in the hurried confusion I made a mistake somewhere.

Aaah I love my job!!! 

[llammamamma]

Sep. 11, 2008 at 10:47 AM

I was an NA in a nursing home for about 2 years and what I learned is that you can only do what you can do, try not to stress too much about if your doing thing's right or not. Do what you need to do and plug on. If you need a moment because you feel as if you will break ask your supervisor if you can go to the restroom, and once alone let it all out, (talk to yourself, pray or just sit and think), and if it's more serious than that sit with your supervisor and talk to them, there there to listen and give advice about the job. I had some problems when I first started my job and I sat with my supper and talked it out with her, from then on when ever I had a prob I went to her and we made good friends. Plus My probs were either solved or they didn't feel so big. Sometimes you just need an outlet.

P.S. I'm Here (an outlet) 

[Kristjansmama]

Sep. 11, 2008 at 10:51 AM

Yeah unfortunately as a nurse you sometimes don't have time to take a break.  People need their meds and you only have so much time to get things done.  Thanks for your advice though.  Most people just keep saying it ll get better.   Which I m sure it will...if I don't rip my hair out first lol.

(Original Poster)

[Lizzysapisces]

Sep. 11, 2008 at 10:56 AM

I'm sure it will get better as time goes on, you're doing what you love!