Nursing and being a mother....

[emptyboxcars]

I have been a stay at home mom for awhile now. However, I spent the last few years in school to be a nurse. I've finished my degree and am in the process of finding a job as an RN. BUT, having a strong desire to be a big presence in my kids' lives coupled with one of my children having developed some behavioral issues this past year, I'm now wondering how to mesh being a nurse and mother.

If I had years of nursing under my belt, I'd jump in as a home health nurse where I can set my own hours....or perhaps a school nurse. But this is not the case.

I find myself wondering if I should chuck it all and just go work at a preschool so that I can have the summers and holidays off to be with my kids. The last several years were rough on our family with me spending so much time and energy toward school and physically/mentally away from my kids. I was not the best mother during this time and I'm paying for it to varying degrees now. It was difficult handling the stress of nursing school as a family, and I'm not sure handling the stress of a nursing job will be any different.

I know no one can tell me what to do, but I'm wondering if I could get some opinions on how you feel about working as a nurse and having a family. I've talked to nursing friends who really struggle with wishing they could spend more time with their kids. I have never been one of those gals who wants a career and children. A big part of the reason I went to school was for finances. That is BY NO means the only reason. I have a strong heart to help others as well. But, I find myself feeling like I have to choose between helping my own kids and helping others, mainly because of my one child who has developed some issues over this past year.

Anyone been in my shoes? If you could change things in your own life, would you do anything differently?

[Born_2BRN]

I have a child and I work per-diem. It works out great. I spend most of my time at home with my child and still manage to have a descent pay check. This works because my husband earns a good living. If you are in my position then go per-diem. It's the best way to go! Good luck with whatever you decide.

[beeker]

I am pregnant, and work full time 12 hour nights. It is horrible. I am so exhausted! I am trying hard to get part time days and my bossy keeps saying next schedule, but it never comes and I've lost all hope and trust in her. I don't want to work 12 hour shifts. While on maternity leave I am panning to look for something else. I want either 10 or 8 hour shifts . Three 10s is my preference which limits me to 2 local places.

[twinmommy+2, ADN, BSN, MSN]

You just have to find that shift that works well for you. I'm a Mom to 4 kids (12, 11, 11, 7), work full time nights, full time RN-BSN, and an occasional part-time job here and there to pick up the slack. Hubby is without a job at the moment, so being a stay at home Mom won't work. We both wish I were able to stay home and I know he would rather it be that way, but its just not working out that way.

Would I do any of it over again, no. I'd do it the say way again. Perhaps I would have gotten the BSN much sooner.