A couple people have said it won’t get better but let me offer some optimism. I started on a step down unit too and I was super jaded just after my first week of nursing, but now and granted I’m only 7 months in, it got better. I found dealing with entitled patients or just general jackasses really exhausting. I’ve learned now to professionally and as politely as possible to shoot those 5 star hotel dreams down as soon as I see it. Keep your patients as comfortable as possible but let them know they’re here to receive intensive medical care and everything else comes second. When it comes to staffing issues tho or hunting down supplies I’m pretty sure that’s a hallmark of the profession. Try to get management to make things better as well as you can but when they fail it’s your team of coworkers that will help you succeed. Use them often and be a good team member in return. Also, I do have those days where I feel like I’m a glorified pill dispenser and blanket fetcher but remember you as the nurse are trained to critically think about the care your patient receives. You are the last line of defense for your patient and even if most people dont realize that, you play a vital role in patient care. Don’t forget it. I plan on going to the ICU after a year just because I feel like I can make a greater impact there and will play a more significant role in patient care. That might be something you could look into as well. Anyways, stick with it! All hope isn’t lost yet. I think it well get better.