:nurse:Hi guys,

I have been an RNC in labor and delivery for 5 years..I am also on the maternal transport team. Iam picking up extra shifts in pediatrics and NICU (after few days of orientation of course.) Well I have been thinking about PICU or transferring to ER. I am scared of the change, but I feel like it's time for me to try something new. How cna I figure out which one I wouldlike best? What if I end up regretting my decision? Thanks for any advice...

You can try shadowing in each unit to see if you like. It seems like your areas tend to be around little people and in the ER you will deal with more of the adult population. However there are ER's that have pediatric ER's.

I can only address the "what if I end up regretting my decision" aspect of your question.

Because of some previous work experiences, I thought I wanted to be a CNM. I transferred from the medical floor to the Maternal/Child floor to get further experience prior to applying to grad school, and I absolutely hated it. Loved my coworkers, hated all other aspects of the work. After 6 months, I transferred back, to the medical floor, where I am happy with the pace, challenge, and the variety. I am one of the few people in the hospital who can float to the Maternal/Child floor (as it is a closed unit), and I am comfortable taking postpartum patients or working as a second in the nursery or in pediatrics. I like to float up there to see my old coworkers and to have a change of pace. But I know it's not for me.

So, if you regret your decision, it *is* possible that the opportunity to "un-do" your decision will arise.

Good luck!

I think the key in your thought process is "I feel like it's time for me to try something new." The beauty of nursing is the ability (and responsibility) to continue to challenge ourselves and continue to grow. Yes, taking that leap will be tough, but you need to expand yourself and your knowledge. Change is never easy - but usually worth it.

What's the worst that could happen if it doesn't work out? Would you be able to go back to your old position? Can you use what you've learned to go into another area? Always look for ways to improve what you have.