Don't try to make people who are not nurses understand. Experience is the only way to truly understand what a nurse's job is like these days. It didn't used to be like this. Nursing was rewarding some days, others, not so much, but at least there were the rewarding days to keep one going back to work with a smile and some love to give.

I understand you, and everything you said is true, but that's because I am a nurse. Best wishes to you in the frustrations to come! And don't forget that even if it is 1 in 1,000 patients...and/or family members...someone will appreciate what you have done for them. A smile can do so much for someone else too!

One thing the non nurses here haven't considered, is that once you have an education in nursing and have spent your money and time getting it, you are not about to change your career! One has to actually make money to pay the bills! It is not your fault that you had no idea what the job truly entails! College does not give one a true experience of actually being a nurse! 90% of what you were forced to learn is useless! Hands-on is reality!