Why i quit my job as a Registered Nurse.. (the truth) 

Great saying @13infbatt , I also love 'you can't pour out of an empty glass' I'm glad you finally cut ties and are out of the battlefield we call healthcare.. Time to get back into rest and digest mode and let your body, mind and soul relax. Enjoy the rest of your time mate! - Nick

you too bro. @@nickandstevie

20 yrs this Dec, 19 in ER. I'm done. I'll take a job at Walmart at this point.

Love that saying, wow.

Wow that must have been a WILD ride. I couldn't last >5 years in bedside in general, better yet ER! Congrats to you for lasting as long as you did. I'm proud of you. I give you my blessing to take off the scrubs and settle down into a calmer less toxic job! Look after yourself, after 20 years, you'll most likely need a bit of time to recover and get back into some 'normalcy'. Look after yourself -Nick

I have worked in surg as well as medical, both are awful but surgical is worse in my opinion. Congratulations in getting out! That's huge! I'm so excited for your next chapter! All the best and look after yourself -Nick

I got tired of families "fishing for a lawsuit". You start to feel like a mafia member under surveillance. I also got tired of watching everything you said or put down in a chart that could be used against you. You can't really take care of patients with the patient load and patient fragility most long term care or med-surg nurses carry, not for a sustained period of time. There were days you were just lucky someone didn't die on your shift. Long term care, they just want to fill a bed. I had patients who really needed to be in a hospice setting.

100%. I've had patients and their family members actioning 'ryans rule' over the dumbest sh&t i've ever seen. All because they weren't first in line to get a procedure, whilst not being in a 'life-threatening' state. Whilst we had people in CCU on inotropes and vasopressors keeping them alive that needed the lab or surgery sooner. It happened a lot with private patients coming into the public health system. Demanding single rooms, demanding this, demanding that. We'd just say, you're a private patient, go to private we don't do that shit here, and then.. 'fish for a lawsuit' as you would say. There was almost no winning, you just had to bow down to these people just to keep your job and get paid and survive, all to come back and do it again. -Nick

Hi! Im a new grad and Im wondering what jobs do u guys have now after quitting nursing ? 🥺 I really want to leave nursing. Im losing my mind!

I get you Katy. I spent 32 years the bedside: Emergency Room, Neurosurgical ICU, Medical ICU,and my final 19 yrs in Trauma ICU . I had enough one day. after two doctors ticked me off. Put in my papers , retired and never looked back, Claimed my pension at 55 and Social Security at 62. Have very little debt . Not rich but comfortable.

Thanks legend! It's definitely overlooked as people deem nurses 'Hero's'. But never actually look into what we have to 'fight' through - Nick

Couldn't agree any more! It's all about budgets and making an extra dollar, and you know what's funny? It's the people that AREN'T nurse, or bedside nursing, that are pulling the strings because they don't deal with the aftermath pile of s!@#. I understand that there is a NEED fore nurses and healthcare "heros", but I am NOT one of them, you can find someone who is willing to be treated like shit, overworked and underpaid, just because they 'love their job'. Glad you got out/are getting out! Honest i've been about for about 7 months, and I have not felt better, my sleep schedules have normalised, I have routines that I can actually follow, and I basically never get stress induced cold sores / mouth ulcers (used to get them monthly). Enjoy your time out!

Nursing is a hell scape of stress, depression and unrelenting anxiety. Moreover, it is a moral insult that destroys your literal soul !!

Unfortunately true! 29 years as a nurse here 😢

Im a new nurse and im already mapping out my exit in the next couple of years … if anything im leaving bedside and doing something else with my degrees

I couldn't agree with you more! Whenever a nursing student came through, I always made sure to let them know of the negatives (along with the very minimal positives) of this job. I always told them that they should get out while they can (if they were on the fence to begin with). No one should have to go through the stuff nurses do, but we do, and like you said, it's not worth it until they change the systems, which I don't foresee happening any time soon (if ever). Thanks for tuning in! -Nick

Completely agree. I've got your back and will support you anyway that I can. I worked trauma, ICU, Life Flight including in the military. It's expected that nurses constantly take care of train wrecks, bodies so cruelly broke that they'll be crippled for life, yet never emotionally break down ourselves. The doctors take care of the patients too, but for a tiny fraction of time that we do. We fight everyone to give the best care for out patients. We fight doctors, administrators, logistics, regulations, family and friends of our patients, even the patients themselves. If we don't fight, patients die. And we have enough blood on our hands that we did not cause. If I knew then what I know now, I would have gone into HR as a profession. More money, less work, no one ever died from an HR deficiency.

Lots of illegal aliens saturating the hospital environs of northern CA.

ever had a patient throw his own feces in your face cos you didn't answer his call bell on time, you were cleaning up another patient who had soiled himself and the bed from running diarrhea, as soon as you finished you went to answer this patient and the next thing he had shit in your face. Ever had a manager come to tell you that your other patients are calling while you were doing sterile dressings on a huge wound that takes over an hour. Ever had families approach you while you were passing medications and confront you and ask you why you were not feeding their mother, eventhough you explain to them you will after you finish passing meds, so why can't they feed their mother, their answers are ''cos we pay you''..

@@zenabubawah3708 I've had urine, feces, emesis, used peri pads all thrown at me, almost always from drug seeking patients.

My co workers wife has been a Dental Hygienist for many years and he’s told me she loved it so much.. only downside is that she has tension in her neck and back from leaning over cleaning patients teeth and what not.. be sure to tell your daughter to get massages once in a while and to take care of herself :)

😂Imagine the stress on her back pulling up 300+lb patients all day/night (no dental hygienist working at 3am😂) From a 20+yr night shift nurse…❤️she absolutely picked the right profession!!❤

That's awesome! I'm so glad she got out and into something better for her mental health and well-being! -Nick

Thanks Autumn! Yep, i've tried to explain this to SO many people that don't work in healthcare and they just NEVER get it. Even some colleagues (that are nurses) never understood any of these topics either, which was mind-blowing to me, as they also experience it daily. But I guess some people have the ability to 'turn-off' to these problems and go home. But after a while, you just can't ignore this stuff. I got through my year grad, and then starting having doubts, but I lasted another 4 years, and thought enough was enough! Hope you can figure out something else you want to do in life! - Nick

What are you going back to school to study for if you don't mind me asking?

What are you in school for?

Well 1 year and back to school said it all …

I've worked in nursing homes too, prior to acute care hospital settings, even that was a drag, but not as mentally stressful, due to not caring for acutely unwell patients that can deteriorate at any time. But 1:25 ratio is actually insane. How do they think anyone can provide safe care in those circumstances? Like where are the policies on the ratios? Where is the union when they're needed? I'm sorry you had to experience this field like that. Did you end up getting out? - Nick

@@nickandstevie I was so young at the time I didn't even think of reporting conditions like that, but you're right. It was vastly unsafe not only for the CNAs, but the residents as well. I did end up quitting and getting out; and I've found myself in a much better place mentally and career wise!

Why would CNAs be a the nurses station charting? Everywhere I've worked there are pretty much just enough computers at the station for nurses and maybe one additional for providers. If there is an extra computer after the nurses all have one then it'd make sense for assistive personnel to use one. What usually happens is the assistive personnel hog all the computers at the nurses station and then the nurses have no where to chart!

@@Kwicdrawmcgraw The nurses have additional computers on their carts. Most nurses seem to have preferred those computers since they perform faster than the ones at the nurses station. The monitors in the hall that they were requiring us CNAs to use were slow, unresponsive to touch, and overall would have taken double if not triple the time compared to the station computers. Besides that. May I rephrase. In the middle of the pandemic and severely understaffed, us CNA's were barely at the station to begin with. The *only* time we were able to sit down was during charting, one time per shift, usually when nurses were doing their rounds anyways. None of the nurses complained. That wasn't why they changed the rule -- as far as I am aware all the nurses I worked with were more than happy to share the seats at the nurses station. They knew we couldn't ever take a lunch due to how slammed we were. The facility wasn't being compassionate. They knew better than anyone that no CNAs had been able to take lunches for weeks, and that we were being overworked and understaffed. Forcing us to take more time standing in the hallways with monitors that didn't work and hadn't been replaced in years wasn't the solution.

Been there done that. My break was when I charting. Lucky if I was able to use the bathroom.

There is honestly nothing glamorous about this job. The 'novelty' of wearing scrubs and being a 'hero' wears off almost instantly when you're treated like a slave not a hero. Radiology would be a good pick, however I think ANY health care profession would be roughly the same, as people (especially sick people) can be down right c#@ts -Nick

Couldn't agree more! It changed me as a person over the course of 5 years and not in a good way. I turned into a shell of a human, and just wanted to escape life in general. It was not healthy. Totally agree with the patients, I had some lovely patients that I was happy to go above and beyond for, then I had patients that thought we were in a 5 star hotel that demanded everything on a silver platter, and like you said, unfortunately, the latter ALWAYS overpowered the former. Yep, sometimes other nurses are one of the problems in itself. However where I worked, it was always encouraged to take your sick leave, or a mental health day, which was very nice for a change. But it still never changed the actual environment I worked in. I totally feel you with the current economic state and leaving an 'okay paying job' with 'good security' to struggle, thankfully I am fortunate enough to have a great support network behind me that allows me to work other jobs for lesser wage and still survive until I figure out what I'm to do next. I wish you all the best and hope you get out of this toxic field! - Nick

L theanine and l threonate the night before will hell with the stress.

Thank you! I tried to be as honest and transparent as I could be. Too many people favour or like the idea of being a nurse or 'healthcare hero', without understanding whats actually involved, it's not sunshine and rainbows and I want people to know that. If I can prevent at least one person from going through what I went through and change their trajectory in life for the better, then I will do my best to do that. Thank you so much for tuning in and supporting this video! -Nick

You are welcome! -Nick

27 years! WOW! I hope your years in the hospital setting treated you well. My hat goes off to you, along with many others who slog it out for longer than they should. I'm glad you got out and have moved onto something a lot more forgiving on the mind and body - Nick

Home health sucks too. Parents try to get you to do extra shit at their house, listening to their arguments, dealing with their fucking dogs lol

@@MendandMake😂😂😂 I hollered when you said dealing with their dogs!!!

@@msstacey777 it is what it is lol. Damn dogs

Hello and thank you for tuning in! 9 years wow! Congratulations on getting out and putting yourself first, that's huge! I'm borderline un-employed at the moment - very low hours per week, just surviving with bills etc. I honestly have never felt better too! Sleeping better than ever, not breaking out in cold sores and mouth ulcers. I'm also deciding on my next trajectory - have spent the last 6 months living in Bali and resetting my body/life. Cheers to the next chapter! Goodluck -Nick

29 years as a nurse and I can truly relate. I resigned last month and I was outpatient oncology but at a cesspool of an organization. When I tell you the STRESS HAS BEEN LIFTED!!!! Believe me. I too am sorting out my next steps and in the interim it may be a much lower paying gig but peace of mind and mental well-being is priceless. Best wishes to you on your journey. God bless you!

Christina I threw in the towel after 32 years of the various hell holes : Emergency Room, Neurosurgical ICU,Medical ICU and Trauma ICU. That was at age 55,10 years ago. Fortunately enough ,I had a pension that I could claim at age 55 ,since I had 30 years of credited service in the state retirement system . My former employer is a County/ Teaching hospital,which offered a DROP program ( deferred retirement option program) ,enabling me to be legally retired and still work in the system . The DROP is a 457B program, so you still receive your pension in addition to the pre-tax DROP money. You can cash that money out.without having to wait until you’re 59 1/2. Claimed Social Security at 62, so I have that income tandem. Not rich, but comfortable, and no longer stressed. Four former coworkers have died in the last 10 years since I’ve retired.

Same here, walking away after 10 long years in the field. Unfortunately not what I anticipated coming out of nursing school...real world 🌎 drama & politics left me emotionally stunned along with lack of respect from leadership & getting wrote of for stupid things..enough is enough, back to summer school & fall semester to find a new degree outside of healthcare all together

It is SO worth it right?! Congrats to you!

Get out while you still can! It's never too late, although the 'recovery/reset phase' may be longer, it's SO worth it! I can actually sleep now, and my immune system is SO much better (I used to get cold sores and mouth ulcers EVERY month. But in the last 6 months I've had them twice) -Nick

@@nickandstevie I agree. As a male in healthcare, we both know how it is. Minefield is an understatement. I will find a better path.

@@user-bp6fd9ve3oim a first year make nursing student 😭

38 years in hospitals and LTC...I'm 62 in a month......

Please give yourself time to recover, as you will feel better again trust me! -Nick

No job (nursing or not) is worth anyones physical or mental health! -Nick

Hello! Thank you for tuning in! I'm so sorry that you had to endure nursing school for nothing. Unfortunately for me, no-one was convincing me to do it, other than myself. I kept telling myself it will be better once I graduate and work - boy was I wrong. Best case scenario - Is like you said, you don't ever have to work as a nurse in your life! I'm in the same boat.. everyone kept saying oh, you can always come back later, always try a different type of nursing.. but they just don't understand, I mentally can't. Like you, i'd rather pick-up a regular 9-5 desk job, or even coles/woolworths before I go back to nursing (coles/woolworths don't get paid half bad either - with nowhere near the responsibility..) My feelings towards nursing are on the same level! I hope you get your dream job and figure out your trajectory in life! Look after yourself -Nick

Glad u figured that out before u wasted more time

I'm sorry that you got essentially, 'mentally forced' into this field of work. I'm surprised you never picked up on how the field is to work in through your dad. I hope you do get out asap and live a much more vibrant life outside of the hospitals four walls -Nick

Shift work has been killing me. I could work day shift but the problem is having a 2 week schedule instead of the same schedule every week. I have my days off scattered. So I only get 2 days off in a row every 2 weeks. I work midnights and my first day off is spent sleeping. My shift differential is only $1. All of the things he talked about is why I went to midnights, to cut down on the crap. I work every Sunday night even on my "weekend" off.

That sounds like such an unfair trade off! 2 days off a fortnight? Is that legal. I honestly thought the legal cutoff for days in a row worked was 7 or 8 unless agreed upon by the employee? That's crazy that day shift > night shift is only $1 more, that's not even worth it to suffer through that. I hope you get that roster fixed for your sake! -Nick

Hello! Thank you so much for tuning in! I'm glad that I can share some empathy with you and hopefully make you not feel as alone in the nursing world as it can be. I'm glad you got out of bedside nursing! I also contemplated a 'non-bedside' role prior to leaving healthcare, but when I got to the root of it, healthcare in general was the cause for everything. So I got out, and honestly, haven't felt better in my 5years of nursing. Get out, you won't regret it trust me. I would take a 9-5 desk job over nursing ANY DAY. I hope you find what you're looking for and look after yourself -Nick

Couldn't agree more 30 year old male here. Left the hospital, working in home health for now but looking for a way out of nursing completely.

I'm so glad you left that toxic culture! I hope you eventually find your way out and onto bigger and better things! -Nick

Absolutely! You are deemed a 'hero' by everyone OUTSIDE of this profession. Even the patients you look after, that treat you like shit, sometimes throw out the 'what you're doing is amazing', then why are you treating me like arse then? Yeah I'm not a huge fan of the mandated jabs either, I did get them, as I was so new to nursing and needed to continue to work. However, if I had the opportunity to go back in time and find another career, i'd do that, and avoid the jab altogether! Hope you found some peace in your work life - Nick

I got terminated back in 2021 for not taking the Covid mandate poison. I was an X-ray student at the time. Literally months away from graduating. Fast forward.. I got my CDL-A. Currently been a trucker for a little over 2yrs now. Made my first $100k my first year as a rookie driver. It’s up from here.

@@user-ub8uc8gq7r Yep the system is rigged from once you enter until you get out. It's a shame, as healthcare is needed with 100% uptime. There's no rest for healthcare. Glad you've found something to keep you moving forward, that's incredible to hear! All the best on your journey! - Nick

​Lucky you 🕊️🫂🙏✝️☮️

@@user-ub8uc8gq7r Can down to AL they don’t force the jab on you just get a religious exemption. I believe TX is the same way.

THIS!!! This is the most frustrating thing in the whole world! Nurses having 4-6 patients to themselves, and half of them 'require' sling lift or a stand-aid, solely because they're too lazy to push themselves into rehab/recovery. It's sad, but over time I honestly stopped caring about my patients entirely.. If you don't want to help yourself, why would I want to help you? - Nick

😅I have Patients that feed themselves when the meal tray comes but won't lift their own cup of water when I come in with their meds.

Exactly, and these same patients are the ones complains about the good nurses that do make them do things for themselves.

Yes this! I’m especially disgusted by the perfectly abled men who purposefully pee and shit themselves and lie in it to make us (young 20’s female) touch them. When I tried to call a patient out on it, he said “well this is what I’m paying for, for you to wait after me.” 😡 Like sir, you are in the icu because you were very sick, on ecmo, ton of pressors, and crrt. You are paying for those, not for sexual services!

It do be like that sometimes! Ridiculous is an understatement.

I totally feel you! I was the same just after my first 6 months working on an Oncology/Haematology ward. It was the busiest ward i've worked on in my career and we were understaffed about 90% of the time, it was awful. Turned me off the whole career then and there, but the remaining 4.5 years left, I gradually saw more and more issues within the system as a whole. It's NEVER too late to get out and change your trajectory in life. Even if you have kids, a mortgage etc. It's not worth your mental health staying in such a toxic work environment, after all, you only have ONE life. I hope you find a way out and what you're looking for in life - Nick🥰

Glad you got out! It really is a dog eat dog world in healthcare! I wish you all the best on your next life adventure -Nick

Thank you for tuning in! I hope you find where you want to end up! -Nick

Hello! I'm glad I could provide some sort of realism within this profession. It's glorified way too much and no-one ever actually mentions the 'real' part of the job, just the 'saving lives' aspect. If I could offer you advice, it would be to get out before you get in. In my honest opinion it's not worth it. However please remember, this is only advice from my own personal experience, it is not gospel. You are your own person and can do what you wish with your life. I hope you choose what is best for you! All the best -Nick

Hey Renee thanks for the kind message! Sometimes you just need to hear from others that they too are experiencing the same thing, so you don't feel insane. Too many nurses I worked with thought I was crazy for thinking this stuff and wanting to leave, and they would always tell me 'it's not even that bad'. I guess they were either in denial or they just got so used to dealing with this shit that they thought it was the norm. I hope you can get out and savour the rest of your life outside of this profession! Lets do it!

Thank you so much for your kind words. Unfortunately the ratios of which patients are 'good' or 'bad' is quite staggering. But I will say this - please keep being kind and compassionate towards us health care workers, it never goes unnoticed and it is much appreciated. Most of the time, a small kind gesture can turn a whole awful day around. It's also quite unfortunate, but if you treat us nicely, we will above and beyond for you, but if you treat us bad, we will avoid you at all costs (whilst still doing what needs to be done). Thank you for being kind to us! -Nick

Wow even as a Reg! Why am I not surprised? Congratulations on getting out and putting yourself first. I've seen first hand what medical registrars are also put through, and how long they work for. Here's to putting ourselves first! Goodluck -Nick

I agree! So many times would I have two ends of the spectrum - one really kind and appreciative patient (who understood a nurses responsibilities and workload) and then another patient that's on the other end (demanding, entitled, didn't care that I hadn't had a break or needed to go to the bathroom). As sad as it is, I got to a point where I would do the bare minimum required tasks for the 'rude' patient, and would happily go out of my way for the 'kind' patient. I NEVER neglected essential cares (observations, medications, pre-op stuff etc - but I NEVER stayed for a chat and would avoid them at almost any cost). This was yet another reason to leave, I didn't have any patience for people anymore, of give them the benefit of the doubt. -Nick

And some older people in that group, hippies, want super strong iv narcotics for a sore throat! True story 😮

From what I'm gathering you went from a high stress career, straight into another high stress career haha! I get you, 20 years burnout is crazy! 5 years was bad enough for me, so hats off to you for holding on for so long! I understand that given our economic situation in the world right now with high cost of living, alot of people put up with more for more money to 'survive'. But in my opinion is they aren't 'surviving' they are scraping through to pay bills and then go back to work, and their mental health and social life is non-existent (atleast this was the case for me). So I prioritized my health and life outside of work, and lived below my means to work less. Best thing I ever did. Thank you so much for your message! I hope you've found something that works for you! -Nick

@@nickandstevie I was a control room operator for a global corporation. In 15 years I had one X-mas off, several years it was nothing for me to work months without a day off. Worked around the clock in all kinds of weather, one of those tough guy jobs. When I came into nursing, I was attracted to the control a person had over their schedule. When I move on to another job now, I start looking after taking a month or two off. I don't care about staying at a job more than a few years. In my previous career, I earned a pension, so the pressure to make a lot of money is lessened. I also got all the conspicuous consumption out of my system. I found that if a person is not careful, the things you own will start owning you. I still get offers to go back to the control room from all over the world for 6 figures. No thanks, my life is simple but I'm happier. I got a social life and lost 50 pounds. I see the toxicity in the healthcare system, especially on the people who keep the system running. Save yourself, they will have your replacement there in a week after they bury you.

15 years!! And only 1 xmas off? That's insane, most jobs or corporations honestly don't give a s#$t about their employers. Thankfully we rotated between having Xmas and NY off (work one, have the other off). But still, working weekend and nights just took away from all other parts of my life. I agree with you with the money side of things, money helps so much, but it isn't everything. I also live a more simpler life and work less and i'm WAY happier and better for it. Agreed, I know for a fact that 12 weeks after I left, another nurse was hired and filled that position. Feels good to be a pawn in the governments systems (not). All the best on your future endeavours -Nick

Hello! Thank you for tuning in! After reading everything you just said, even I can confirm that you've made the right decision. Just about any avenue of nursing is/can be toxic. Business would have been a great venture, I wish I tried that. Don't doubt yourself either! If you have a gut feeling about something, then follow it! -Nick

You are most welcome! -Nick

Hello thank you so much for tuning in! That's amazing for you and i'm so happy for you! I actually did a newgrad program through Cardiology and then a specialised cardiac program which rotated me through the Cath lab and CCU. Cathlab would 100% be the best part of my nursing career. The patients were the best i've dealt with - most were outpatient cases so weren't acutely un-well or rude, the camaraderie with the staff and doctors were mostly amazing and the work hours were great. However unfortunately there was still back stabbing and bullying in that small tight knit circle of nurses (doctors included) and my temporary rotation in the Cath lab came to an end. I think MOST of what I talk about is specific to ward / bed-side nursing, however alot of it crosses over to other specialties and niche jobs within nursing, as you are always at the hands of the government (in public systems) and working with other nurses. I hope everything works out for you and you prosper in the Cath lab environment! -Nick

@nickandstevie thank you so much! Yes if the lab has poor leadership or a toxic culture there can be problems. You deff need to shop around and find the right fit for you. I lucked out and got into the secund best cath lab in the US and it truly is top tier. I appreciate your kind words and I will continue on saving lives in the lab! :)

I 100% agree here. Cath Lab has been the best nursing job I’ve ever had. Very much enjoyed it and it is truly rewarding.

How dis you get a job in cath lab as a new grad?

@nioushatavakoli9599 I moved to a very rural hospital that had a large bed and I shine bright like a diamond so they put me in the area I wanted!

Hey there! Thank you very much I appreciate it! In my honest opinion, I would urge you NOT to pursue this as a career, however you have the ability to make your own choice I can only educate you on the con's. I hope you make the right decision for you! Goodluck on your journey! -Nick

I didn't even try ICU but I can tell that would be very stressful, CCU was enough for me. ER I lasted 1 shift and was like, nope, i'm out. Glad you've got a great gig working for you! -Nick

That's amazing! It's also the path i'm going down, I understand being your own boss can be extremely hard, but the pros of that FAR outweight the cons of health care in my honest opinion. - No more night shifts or shift work - however if you love your job, you will do long hours regardless (but it's just different if you love it). - Some people will ALWAYS be rude/disrespectful. As a nurse you have to cop it. As your own boss, you can tell them to go f&#* themselves (my favourite part) I have been out of nursing for approx. 6 months now and I am LOVING my life, I know I will have nursing to fall back on, but if i'm being honest - I don't even want to have to consider that. I don't want to go back! I'm on to bigger and better things! -Nick

That's the beauty in it though! Whats next? Whatever you want! Enjoy the next chapter -Nick

Hello and thank you for tuning into the video! I'm glad I can offer some empathy towards what you are currently going through. I hope did / can offer any shed of light into what your future MAY be life if you stick it out, despite feeling what you are already feeling. I also knew on my first new grad rotation 6-12months in that this job wasn't for me. However I stuck it out, because I just thought I 'had' to. Please, for the love of god, don't. If it's not for you, it's not for you, and sticking it out isn't worth it. Honestly, I don't see any of the issues I spoke about in the video, being fixed anytime soon, if EVER. I also experienced the same as a newgrad. Was never in an environment that I felt comfortable to approach someone with a question, which is ridiculous right? As the patient health is ALL of the nurses concern. Why get shunned for asking questions, especially as a newgrad. WTF? As an experienced nurse I ALWAYS went out of my way to students and new grads and told them to ask me anything, no matte how silly. The fact you can't, speaks very LOUD about, who you work with, and what type of environment you work in. I've ever had a hx of depression or anxiety either, and like you, I did some introspection about what was causing it all and it was ALL work. EVERYTHING work related, leeched into every part of my life and made me miserable. I completely understand from an outsiders perspective that all they see if 'good money' and 'a stable job'. But they don't see inside your mind. Never will. I always get questioned by family why I left and I should go back, why I should continue to keep my AHPRA registration updated and valid 'just incase'. There is no 'just incase'. I'd honestly rather work at McDonalds or KFC or some shit. Take these words of advice. The people questioning your judgement are NOT living your life. They are NOT working your job. They are NOT you. They will NEVER understand and they will NEVER have to. It is your life. I pushed for 4 extra years just because I thought I had to.. I wish I could go back in time, quit after the first year and save myself misery for 4 years, and have 4 extra years to figure out my next move. My only regret is not quitting sooner and listening to the signs. PLEASE - do what is right for you and YOU only. I hope you find what your'e after -Nick

Why not go to PA school?

Hello! Thank you for tuning in! Us nurses are typically the eyes and ears for the Drs! They don't know anything until we tell them. Yet we still get treated with disrespect, you can't win (most of the time). It seems like you are one of the amazing patients that I mentioned in the video that makes nurses shift a dream come true! When I say this I speak on behalf of all nurses, we appreciate you and thank you for understanding what we do, and how much we have on our plate! -Nick

It is such a huge factor that not many people think about - I understand it's hard to think like that when you have.. kids, mortgage and car payments and debt you need to pay for. But at the end of the day, you have one life, why would you spend most of it being miserable and not enjoying your life? I'm glad you did what was best for your mental health! All the best with your future! - Nick

ER trauma nurse would be chaotic! Dealing with frequent flyers and MH, basically the LOT. I hope you're managing okay! -Nick

You can, it just takes time. It’s called being administratively discharged.

Absolutely agree! and then you get put on a 1:1 special with them for the next 7 hours of your shift 😤 - complete rubbish

Sure, you can, but it usually takes 3-4 code blacks, some attempts at sedation, a couple of punches to your body and a full shift of verbal/physical abuse. Not worth it. They need to streamline the process WAY quicker! Nick

Thank you so much for tuning in and i'm glad I can give you some perspective as to what to possibly expect if you continue on your nursing journey - Nick

Thank you so much! -Nick

Do you mind sharing what you will pursue next? I want to pursue something that's not in “ healthcare but I don't know what else I would like!

@@zzzzzzzzzz5036 hey I’m actually looking into the tech field. Im going this route because theres a lot of hybrid jobs, many different type of avenues you can take, still high paying like my current career with the potential for much more and I’ve heard they have a better work-life balance. I’m not very tech savvy but I know with enough practice and time anyone can be good at anything. Specifically I’m going for Cloud computing thru WGU. You can take a class or two for $99 to see how it is before committing to a full term of school.

Wow! Even as a sonographer.. I know it's still healthcare, but I thought that would have the least amount of b*llsh^t to deal with.. I'm sorry about that! I hope you find something that suits you better! -Nick

Wow i thought it was just me I prefer to text after work days because I’m drained from talking to people all day

Hello! Thank you so much for tuning in to the video and for leaving a comment! I have been victim to everything you have just said. Always stuck in an eb and flow of HAVING to document everything - and create iview groups on our system for insitu devices, but also having to physically care for them, insert them and remove them, while having to document the care and insertion for them, so you're really fighting two ends of the spectrum, DOING an action for your patient, or DOCUMENTING the actions you either NEED to do, or HAVE done (leaving you not much time to document it). It's a vicious cycle that never ends. My last few months of working bedside nursing our food service staff went on strike - this left nurses doing EVERYTHING re food - organising meals for patients, making tea / coffee, getting snacks etc. But it didn't stop with food services, we were at the expense of allied health - we have to do PT, oral cares etc etc, we take on 80% of allied health roles whilst being the primary care giver, it's actually insane. Exactly, emotional abuse, physical abuse where do you draw the line? How much can you take before you break? No one that ISN'T a healthcare worker will EVER understand this. Working with great people makes it harder to leave the job, but should NEVER be the reason you stay in such a job (if it's ruining your life) - you need to make that clear to yourself. I hope you find something else that you can work until retirement! All of the best! P.S I worked in Australia -Nick

I'm so jealous that you are so close to retirement! But also so happy for you! I'm glad your nursing career is coming to an end and you can finally start up your rest and digest system 👐 - Nick

Wow, that's crazy! I'm so sorry that happened to you. I wonder how they found out about the conent? I'm glad it was a nudge in the right direction for you though! I agree with the not being forced out, alot of people would stay. All the best on your job hunt and I hope you find something better for your mental health! -Nick

​@@nickandstevieI'm pretty sure someone brought the video to my bosses attention as I doubt he stays up late at night watching my content. Lol. Thank you for your response and words of encouragement. The honesty in your video is needed to be heard.

@@NurseNessaMaintaining That's rubbish! The fact that you can get fired for that, yet other nurses have an only fans that is public within their own IG.. and they promote it. Wild. Shows that HR isn't there to help YOU, it's there to help the company! -Nick

32 years!! WOW! and 15 years nightshift.. that part alone would have totally destroyed me! I agree, people keep saying there's so many other avenues to go down in nursing, you don't have to do bedside etc etc. But in my honest opinion, I believe if you are dealing with patients (acutely unwell or chronic, sometimes not even unwell), it doesn't matter, they can still be entitled and rude. It's the field as a whole, not just a department by department basis. I hope the end of your career moving into retirement goes swiftly and smoothly! -Nick

I believe it's the same anywhere you go, as there will ALWAYS be sick and rude/disrespectful patients. I hope you find a better job for you! -Nick

Thank you so much for tuning in! -Nick

Yep! Even by doctors! We are literally in the middle of something, and they come up and abruptly ask us to do something for a different patient, all the while they don't even now our names.. -Nick

Thank you! Unfortunately there's some people out there who don't agree with what I'm saying. I'm not sure if it's denial or they're just lucky enough to avoid all of this b*llsh&t their entire career. But I'm glad I can offer some sympathy/empathy to others out there experiencing the same thing. We are not alone! -Nick

Hey! Thanks for tuning in! Wow that sounds hectic! I've dealt on and off with mental health patients on the wards (not a designated mental health unit) and that was honestly enough for me. Mental health patients/anything neuro (delirium, dementia, alzhemiers) is SO frustrating. Hats off to you! The research on psychedelics is a very interesting topic to me. I think that route would do WONDERS for the world, but i'm not sure how the government would see that. Will keep my eye out on how that turns out in the future! All the best on your endeavours! -Nick

I'm so glad that you got to experience than prior to using up so many years of your life to study it and then work it just to experience it and learn the same thing. It 'modern day wage slavery' - that's my opinion on it. I hope you found something great for you -Nick

Totally agree! I think desensitisation is inevitable to some degree in this field unfortunately, depending on time served! -Nick

I get it man! Maybe try a different avenue or nursing (not bedside) if you can't leave due to obvious reasons (family, finance etc). Goodluck man! -Nick

No one that is NOT or has NOT been a healthcare worker, or bedside nurse, will ever understand this. Heck even some of the actual bedside nurses can't understand this.. -Nick

@@nickandstevie I don’t do med surg anymore it’s too much. I am a postpartum nurse and sometimes babies way more manageable. I’m praying for something. I could switch to case management or a clinic. I am sure those options will also have a new set of challenges. I am now at a new job. Money needs to be made and bills. I went to a smaller hospital to at least have a lighter load. My manager is already being passive aggressive. This is ad and exhausting it’s only my second week of work. I am at this point wanting to ask her what is the problem. I refuse to walk on egg shells because of a job. I will quit this job like the other facilities. This is a horrible reality. I want to work for myself I worked hard for this degree I also want to help my husband so we can grow and make things happen in our lives.

WOW! 30 years is wild! I just could not imagine that time under all of what I mentioned! I hope you are actively looking after yourself and your mental health! Hats off to you for your long lived service! -Nick

Hello! I'm glad you liked my video! I hope for your sake you haven't endured too many years in this grueling field! I am so sorry you got stuck with that awful awful roster. THAT would have honestly ruined me, I was doing 4-6night shifts a month, and usually broken up because anymore than 2 in a row and my mental health would rapidly decline, so my hat goes off to your for doing 6 in a row. I'm going to take a stab in the dark and say for point no#2, the patient turned out to be independent and could get up and move? 😏 I don't have much more to say about point no#3 - it is what is is, females CAN be hard to deal with - especially in numbers (no disrespect) Point no#4 - I saw this WAY too much! I got caught in this on multiple occasions, luckily enough I was 'respected' enough that when I stood up for myself and say no, change it. I was listened too, probably because I was stubborn enough that if it wasn't changed, I would refuse and go home 'sick'. Unfortunately that's how bad it got. I hope you're doing okay and find what you're looking for! -Nick

Thank you Kerry! Much appreciated!

Yep! It's a dog eat dog world! I have considered most of those and I have worked in Cath lab before - it was good. Dialysis is a no no for me - renal patients tend to be the worst out of ALL patients in my experience. I think unfortunately given my stressful 5 years, I have some minor trauma regarding healthcare and I've just blocked out everything health care wise as a career, I don't want to be involved in patients or other nurses at all. Maybe things will change in the future, I am open to it, however maybe not for a couple of years. Thank you for your input though, it is much appreciated! -Nick

Acute Dialysis RN here-dialysis is hard physical work and low pay--most hospitals rent out to the big corporations like Fresenius, DaVita and DCI they are the worse paid and NO Call back pay and u work on the day u are on call--I have had many a 24 hours day NO BREAK and NO on call pay, left for travel and never went back to staff--it's hard on your back and your mental health, I'm out in one year as a nurse, I would not recommend dialysis or nursing to anyone I care about@@nickandstevie

I am so sick of hearing this shit from nursing marters "ok just find a new area and you will love nursing". News flash, nursing sucks no matter where you go!!!

haha yep! People are people, no matter what 'department' of nursing you are in. There will always be c$%ts somewhere, unfortunately healthcare just bring this personality and traits to the forefront, no matter where you are in nursing.. Good luck! -Nick

@@bettysmith4527 i think you should do what’s best for you. I’m just sharing my personal experience, coming from the pits of nursing darkness. At my new job we pick our own schedule, PTO is rarely denied, we always get our 30min and are entitled to a additional 1 hr paid sleep break, we often have a resource nurse, are on average 3:1 ratio med surg, always have a CNA, our management is 1 manager 3 supervisors who are literal angels and work on the unit if we’re short, if the acuity is to high we cap the unit, taking care of these kiddos who frequently come back and we know them by name is so satisfying. BUT the parents are sometimes difficult to work with, the kids are very sick, and the job IS stressful. All this being said I love my job now. It doesn’t get better for everyone, but it got better for me.

I think it would similar anywhere in the world, people get sick, and people can be rude/disrespectful, no matter your colour, race, ethnicity, back ground. I can already say that peads unfortunately would not be good for me and my personality and I say that from a personal approach not professional/clinical. In that regard, I almost feel like working in peads you would have double the patient load (metaphorically), as you would be looking after the children AND their distressed parents/parent figure. I could very much be wrong about this though as I haven't worked in peads before. Thank you so much for your kind words and input, it's really appreciated and doesn't go unnoticed. All the best in your healthcare journey! Look after yourself -Nick

@@nickandstevieyes except the USA we have worse ratios. Some ICUs have to triple. All double unless there are extenuating circumstances. PCU may have 5 patients. Med surg begins with 6 patients and may go to 9 patients if understaffed

I have worked in Cath Lab and have done some placements within the OR. While it is MUCH better than bedside nursing - there's still alot of negatives to it, the staff themselves can be quite negative / toxic to deal with too. I only hope I can make you re-consider your choice, based solely on what I have experienced within the field, but you are your own person. I hope you have the smoothest journey possible! - Nick

@@nickandstevie that's definitely worth noting down. I'll give it some thought, thanks again and all the best!

Run !!!

My husband works in the OR (>17 years experience, all in OR). Even in the OR, it’s a sh** show. Docs have favorite nurses which they want to be assigned to them. You have to be really talkative and entertaining to the doctors to be a fave. Also, docs feel like Gods. They do surgeries so ofc they feel almighty. They’re like at the top of that field (medical). So they are really mean (most of them). Nurses can be mean to fellow nurses (almost everyone thinks highly of themselves because they work in the OR; they feel above “normal” bedside RNs), even surg techs are mean to new RNs and bully these nurses. “So d***, don’t know what they’re doing”. Ofc, they don’t know all, they’re new nurses for C* sake. The surg techs can be even meaner at times than the nurses. My husband hates the drama, specially from the female nurses, who always find things to nitpick or micromanage. New hires are bullied. Made to quit early and not really taught or mentored (because “It’s my own knowledge and secret and I don’t want to share it” as per them). Dog eat dog world, really. Choose your battle. But overall, Nursing is really a sh*** job. Any nursing field has its demons. My husband just stays in nursing to be a good provider for his kids. Other than that, he’s really tired and ready to quit in a heartbeat.

You are not alone brother! Bedside is the pits! -Nick

I think ALOT of people out there have similar experiences, but no one wants to speak up about it. Yep! They will do just about anything for attention. I had someone once ask me to put cream on their back - I asked, who does it at home? They said they did. I stared at them and said you can do it now then.. Same patient - buzzed me in, asked for me to grab their pillow for them. I said can you show me which one. They literally sat up and touched the pillow they wanted with their hand.. I said, you want me to grab the pillow you're touching right now for you? They said yes. I said you can do it yourself and walked out. Honestly it's a joke. Patients like these take away from all the necessary jobs us healthcare people need to do (vitals, medications, IV's etc). Yet we have no leg to stand on to talk back to them otherwise we risk getting reprimanded or in trouble. How does that work? I hope you find the right path for you! -Nick

Hello! Thank you so much for tuning in! I'm glad I can offer some form of empathy/sympathy for us healthcare workers. I don't see the hospital systems changing for a LONG time, if ever. Even prior to studying nursing, having not worked in healthcare, I just have a strong feeling this is always as it has been (I could be completely wrong though) -Nick

Thank you for tuning into the video! Very interesting to hear about teaching as a career! May I ask why you went to pharmacy from nursing? From what I can see, even in the hospital setting, it doesn't matter what allied health profession you take, if you are in the 'healthcare' field, we generally all get treated the same -Nick

Hello! Thank you for tuning in, it's much appreciated! -Nick

I replied to your other comment! -Nick

Yep! Such small gestures (please, thank you, not demanding things, smiling, understanding our job is busy, knowing we have more than 1 patient) goes a LONG way. Thank you for being one of 'the good ones'. We appreciate you guys and it definitely does NOT go unnoticed -Nick

Hello! I understand that may sound extreme to people in the 'outside' world, and not in my close circle that experienced who I was/who I became because of this job. But it's true and I want to be brutally honest to currently active nurses and people looking to become a nurse, that is isn't all sunshine and rainbows! -Nick

I agree! I honestly wish that it wasn't this way. I wish nursing was fine and bearable and not torture. I don't think this video would change anything, because at the end of the day, whether we complain or not, nurses still go in and do their job, because they HAVE to. If they don't, people will die. So the government recognises that, still slaves us around and makes profits, and it will always be that way I think -Nick

Wow definitely a late start! But not unheard of. Burnout is SUPER quick in healthcare field, for every reason i've mentioned. I feel like alot of people sweep it under the rug and choose to be ignorant and carry on. Exactly what you said, some people can handle nursing, some people cannot. I think the most important part is recognising, which one you are. I can honestly say, I have become a much better person since quitting bed side nursing and shift work. My mental health is much better, but I would highly recommend into checking on your homone panels! Shift work can ruin that -Nick

Couldn't agree more! It sometimes caused more drama than the patients did to nurses. All around negative environment and negative field to work in (my opinion) - Nick

Many professions unfortunately.

Absolutely! It's hard to come by a work environment these days that aren't toxic - I hope you find something that works for you! -Nick

There is always an option! If you're working bedside, try other avenues - cath lab, theatres, recovery, anaesthetics Otherwise, you're not locked into a healthcare job, there's so many other stuff out there! -Nick

Good for you. I try to be very kind to the nurses because they are often the ones who keep you alive. Plus they have such a hard job. I don’t mind waiting while they deal with patients who need more time.

I agree! I feel like I would be a great patient as I know what it's like to be on the other side! Unfortunately some people don't and will never understand that part -Nick

I totally agree with you! I think the 'idea' of the job is amazing, but actually doing it, is a different story. I was the same, in my favourite field - CCU, critical care, telemetry, STEMIs, cath lab, arrests etc, fascinated, excited and intrigued me, until I worked it, and hated anything and everything nursing related. Sounds like you have a plan! Just follow it through and I hope you find the path you are looking for, look after yourself and your mental health, because no one (including the government) will! -Nick

Yep, a lot of patients thought they were in a resort. I loved dealing with the 'I'm a private patient, I demand a single room' - whilst they present to a public hospital. I always said nope, you're in public, if you don't like it and want a single room, go to private. That usually shut them up -Nick

I'm so glad you got out and can finally relax and let your rest and digest system kick in! You've definitely earnt it after a 32 year stint, kudos to you. You've lasted longer than I ever could have. Enjoy your pension and soak up the rest of your life! -Nick

Agreed! I can see the glamourised side of it and the 'novelty' of being a 'nurse' or a 'hero'. But it wears off the minute you get treated like dogshit and get turned into a slave (from the govenment and the patients) - Nick

Why would you do a job you're not capable of doing?

No support within the system at all! It's disgusting. They don't care about us outside of the hospital walls. If you cannot help them inside the hospital, they won't help you inside the hospital (or out). It's so sad to see them treat the 'heros' that are NEEDED this day and age - I hope you get out and live the rest of your life on your own terms! -Nick

It's not necessarily her fault. Have you ever worked in healthcare? They honestly don't care if you have injuries (that you obtained IN or OUT of the hospital). If you're there, you're there to 'do your job' and 'earn your wage' no matter the cost. If you're pregnant, they don't care, if you have an injury, they will barely opt to put you on light duties.. they fill the roster/gap with you and look at you as a number, not as an individual with a functioning/non-functioning body.

@nickandstevie Why would anybody care about you "outside the hospital walls?" Go buy a dog! You're there to do a job.

@nickandstevie Of course, I work in Healthcare. I also don't care if a coworker is pregnant. If she can't do her job, she shouldn't be there.

It's refreshing but also disheartening to see alot of people can resonate and understand with what I was going through. It sucks that it gets to this point, but I believe it's the universe (and our bodies) telling us it's time to get out, before it's too late. I moved overseas to Bali and am currently working online (doing content and VA stuff). Honestly I wasn't sure what I wanted to do once I was out - as 'nursing' was still a part of my 'identity' despite me hating it so much. I think it's best to just get out, get a 'filler' job to earn income, and figure it out as you go. Better that way than being miserable and working to survive! All the best on your future endeavours! -Nick

@@nickandstevieNick, that sounds amazing. I’m so proud of and admiring of you for getting out on with your life away from misery. You are very intelligent learning from your experience and making these moves.

@@nickandstevie this is everything I’m struggling with right now. So much of my identity is being a nurse and I’m struggling with the idea that I won’t ’be one’ anymore. I feel like I’ve failed in a way? I don’t know why I care so much. Thanks for your reply and all the best to you too!

Hey man! I get you bro, you're NOT alone! It's an insanely stressful field to work in, that rarely ever has downtime. 2-3 more years is a LONG time though.. so think about how your body or mental health may be after forcing another 2-3 more years. There's other options man! Try non-bedside nursing or better yet, get out into the world and try something entirely different! You never know. I hope you find something that suits you better! -Nick

Thanks bro, im trying to look for an alternative that will make me happy

I can definitely see that and I honestly think it's amplified it in just about ALL departments, as we still have mask mandations currently.. as if Covid is still a thing anymore 😂 -Nick

I think ANYONE in the 'healthcare' world can resonate with what I am saying, not just bedside nurses. We all stand with each other. I hope you look after yourself! -Nick

Haha I was waiting for your comment Kal! IYKYK! Next person to get out, YOU!

@@nickandstevie I know! My time is coming soon 🥹🤞🏽❤️

Thank you! -Nick

Just keep swimming -Nick

Absolutely! They waste money, yet they are so money and budget driven, go figure right? I'm so glad you got out when you did, better late than never! All the best on your next journey! -Nick

Or "magnet status" here in the states what a fucking joke that is, MILLIONS spent to PRETEND that the hospital gives a shit about staff!! How about we spend that on more staffing and equipment instead!

MAGNET STATUS! That's the word I've been looking for since I created this video ugh! The hospital I worked in was HUGE and it was deemed magnet status, yet ALL of these issues were still at the forefront. It doesn't change anything. Super, SUPER frustrating -Nick

Magnet Status is a joke! It means sh-t!

@@SLB765 Yep! I agree, it just attracts more healthcare staff because it sounds like they have their sh&t sorted and organised, but they don't..

Awesome! I'm so glad you quit bedside, did you retire or go to something else / non-bedside? -Nick

Thank you for tuning in! I say go for it! No time like the present, and it's NEVER too late! -Nick

Me too

Look after your mental health! It's MUCH more important than a job! -Nick

@@nickandstevie 100% agree!! Im happy and at peace. I'll figure it out.

I haven't yet! But I can without a doubt say i'm 100% happier being out of the healthcare field! I ALWAYS told nursing students to make sure this is really what they want to do and was honest with the cons about this gig!

long ahh comment i’m really just saying my thoughts cause i have no one to talk to ☹️ scared to tell my parents i want to drop nursing and pick up something else after they’ve sacrificed so much over these 2 years but i really don’t like this….

Hey there! Thanks for tuning in! I'll be honest, you already have your answer. You are dreading it before you even start AND you said you loved something completely different.. why and HOW could you completely ignore that intuition? “this is the hard part but you’ll advance and won’t have to do that anymore” - Not sure I agree with this. Even 5 years out of being a student, I was doing the same thing, and would have continued to do so. Sure there are different departments that vary in terms of hands on care and what you do. But at the end of the day, nursing in itself is caring for the patient first, always will be. Always assessing, 'nurse' diagnosis, triaging, managing symptoms etc etc Please please listen to your intuition, I wish I did, I would have been out of nursing after my 1st year and would have 4 extra years to study or do something else.. get out while you still can. Your parents WILL understand, just be honest and explain how you're feeling and how it makes you feel. Look after yourself, no one else will do it for you -Nick

Hello! Thank you for tuning in! Yes! The pay is not 'awful' by any means, however they pay for what we do, doesn't make sense.. As a shift worker you have the ability to make decent coin (night shifts, shift work, weekend shifts, overtime). But at what cost? Ruined sleep schedule, no weekends to see friends/family, and in my case, depression/anxiety! I hope you find what you're looking for, all the best! -Nick

​@@nickandstevieTotally agree, it's mentally & emotionally exhausting.. Thank you! Keep up the good work