Job Change After 8 Months

[Montessori Mommy]

Just wanted to share my story:

I graduated in May and started working in my dream job on a busy L & D floor (2800 deliveries/year). I oriented on days and then went to nights. I received amazing education, training and worked with supportive nurses. The problem was working nights. It was killing me! I couldn't sleep well during the day even though the kids were at school. I was contantly sick, exhausted and depressed. There were no daytime positions open, so I had no options there.

By the grace of God, I found a hospital looking for per diem nurses in their childbirth center. (I'm very blessed that I don't have to work full-time and I don't need benefits.) They are much smaller (600 deliveries/year), and often understaffed, but the nurses are wonderful. I miss the adrenaline rush of just L & D, since the new hospital has post-partum & L & D together. Post-partum and baby teaching is a little "slow paced" for me, but I'm learning to enjoy it. Once I'm off orientation, I'll probably work 16 - 20 hours a week.

Although I was terrified to quit my first job, I've found a postition that's a much better fit for me and my family. I will be picking up a few per diem shifts at my old hospital, too. I really miss the nurses I used to work with, and the excitement of pure L & D, but I'm glad I found the courage to make the move!!

[Chloe'sinNYNow]

Good for you Mommy!!

Good to read a tale of such passion and dedication to this life of nursing. Glad you found your niche without sacrificing your love and dedication to the OB world. I'm guessing your unit doesn't take on gyno surgical pts? Mine does, and as a new grad working on PP, I must say it's not at all "slow paced". But it sure does keep my skills in practice!!

I'm actually looking forward to the slower pace of the night shift.

Peace!:rckn:

Chloe

RN-BSN, BA