What I Learned in a Fast-Paced Unit
Straight Out of Nursing School
When I graduated from nursing school, I was eager to dive into my first nursing job. I landed on an acute care adult unit—fast-paced and intense, with a 4:1 patient ratio. I was a Med/Surg Nurse, you know the role all of our professors stressed where we should start out. My daily routine included handling drips, tele, lines, and some *very questionable* step-downs from the ICU (cue the deep eye roll).
A few months in, the hospital opened a shiny new unit, which was technically where I had been assigned to work all along. Bright, new walls didn’t change much, though. It was another Med/Surg IMC—aka the dumping ground. Oncology, hepatology, psych, transplant... we had it all.
Looking back, this unit was *exactly* what I needed as a new grad. It was actually great nurse career advice, not the only pathway but was valuable to my experience. It pushed me, taught me resilience, and built my skills. Some days, I left defeated, but I always showed up ready to tackle the next challenge.
New Grad Nurse Tips: Do All New Nurses Need to ‘Prove’ Themselves?
Short answer: Nope.
But if you’re in a tough spot, trust me—you’ll come out stronger. When life hands you lemons... you know the rest.
How Long Did I Last as a New Grad Nurse?
2.5 years. Not a minute more.
Nursing is hard, no question. I knew that going in, but you don’t *really* get it until you’re in the trenches.
My mom, grandmother, and godmother were all nurses. They worked decades on the same unit. Me? I lasted 2.5 years on two units, and that half-year counts! Nursing residency, charge RN shifts, research projects, holidays, weekends—I did it all.
Fun fact: According to the RN Work Project study, 33% of new nurses leave their first job within two years. So, if you’re thinking about moving on, you’re not alone.
Why Did I Leave My First New Grad Nurse Job?
The short answer? Life changed. Here’s the full story and 3 reasons I left:
1. Time
When I became a mom to two energetic boys, my priorities shifted. I wanted more time with them, but the demands of hospital nursing left me exhausted. Even though I had flexible hours, I was too drained to enjoy the time I had.
2. Location
I found a job closer to home. After long shifts, nothing feels better than knowing you’re just minutes from your bed (or your babies).
3. Growth
Nursing is such a diverse field, and I wanted to explore its many pathways. I transitioned into leadership roles, combining my MPH and nursing background to serve in community health. Nurse leadership had a nice ring to it, and I was ready to take the leap.
My Take on Nursing Retention
Does every nurse need to leave their first job? No. But sometimes, life pulls you in a new direction.
If you’re a nurse who stayed in your first position longer —or left —tell me your story. I’d love to know what kept you going or what led you to change.
Just my Nurse Perspective,
Nurse Megs
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