Help me choose a dept: Ante Partum, Neuro, or Med-Surg Intermediate?

[bknees]

I am a new CNA. I have been certified thru a hospital program...interviewed with 3 nurse managers. All three have offered me the job, so I have a couple days to decide which department I would like to work in for a minimum of one year.

Here is my dilemna:

I will be on noc (3rd) shift...12 hours 7p-7a...3 nights a week.

Med-Surg Intermediate care has many step-downs from ICU or surgery...many on vents.

Next choice is Neuro...it is a much larger unit with pts who have trauma, seizures, brain tumors, strokes, etc

Lastly is Ante-partum...part of the birthing center department. This is where complicated pregnancy patients stay (premie, multiples,high pressure, toxemia, etc).They may be there a day, maybe months on bedrest.

To me, Antepartum sounds like the place I am most drawn to. I would have the opportunity to learn skills in the other 3 areas on the floor (L&D, Postpartum, Mom & Baby) and would even float if needed.

The other floors sound VERY interesting and busy and diverse...however I am returning to work after 16 years, I have 3 kids in 3 different schools (primary, middle, and high) and a hubby to think about.

My thinking is that Antepartum may be less stressful and more of a positivie environment.

Since I am absolutely new to all of this, I thought I would ask those of you with experience what your thoughts are.

Thank you!

[yousoldtheworld]

I would definitely go with ante partum, especially if you're drawn to it! It can be difficult to get your foot in the door in mother/baby/birthing centers, because many people want those positions, at least around here.