I’m super unhappy with my current job, but I have only been in it for 9 months. I’ve done ICU for 5.5 (4.5ish in previous ICU). This ICU just isn’t for me. I’m burned out. How bad is it to look for another job before I hit a year? I want to try L&D.
L&D can be busy and can be slow. You never know. It is a lot of critical thinking and thinking on your feet. I have been at it for over 40 years and love it
I’m assuming you looked at causes of your unhappiness. Sitting down and talking to your mentor or nurse manager. Has their been a change in the unit, new management guidelines, lack of staff etc. I have found this effective because in my efforts I created my own unhappiness with unrealistic expectations. That being said if you are are in a toxic environment and need to leave to save your self. Then do so. But L & D is one of those areas where you wait for someone to die…or retire. So while your waiting get yourself certified , educated whatever to show the manager your serious. Offer to work OT on the unit to show your serious. An experienced ICU nurse would be a welcome addition. LD has their own crisis’
Do it! Life is to short to be miserable.
PACU? Cath Lab? Other places I've heard from previous ICU nurses, that they retire into, and love!
Nurses check out alternative employment all the time. If you don't like the position you have now then go ahead and look for a job that suits you better. I had 3 different jobs in my first 14 months of being a nurse.
If you have done almost a year in ICU. Try to Stay there for a year.
