What is my PROBLEM???

[SAHMnurse]

What is my PROBLEM?

As a new grad I went to critical care for 2 years; from there, I went to public health for 4 years. I was somewhat bored with public health and always thought about the bedside, but loved the normal hours and low stress of public health. I never did get that sense of satisfaction like I did with critical care.

The truth is, when I worked critical care (nights) I was always anxious, worried I'd make a mistake. I would triple check everything....I was always running around like a crazy person often not eating/drinking/peeing so I could care for my patients.

I am currently a stay at home mom (SAHM) of two children (6 years and 16 months). I have been a SAHM for 6 years. Originally I wanted to stay at home until my youngest started school, but for some reason I keep thinking about nursing.

Again I ask what is my problem? Why would I want to return to that? I don't really want to leave my baby, but just feel that the longer I am away the more skills and experience I am losing. I regret not keeping my foot in the door even while I worked in public health. Why would I want that stress back in my life?

Does anybody out there get this? I guess I am struggling and need some support. HELP!!! What would you all do? It isn't really about the money right now. Honestly, after reading the posts on this website, it looks like I couldn't get a hospital job even if I tried...

Any comments would be appreciated. Thanks.

[SAHMnurse]

Thanks for all of your comments and personal stories. It really helps to hear what other nurses think and what they have been through.

Tricia

Ashley

RFRN:

I think you are right, I am missing nursing. A lot about it. Including the recognition. I think I will keep my eyes open for something nurse related that looks interesting and can be part time!

Loo hoo: Thanks. Good luck with your decision.

Goldberry: Your story helps. I don't regret the time I have spent with my kids either, but I have a feeling I would regret going back just yet and missing these years with my kids. Especially my youngest since my older is in school.

Kooky Korky: Don't get me wrong, I love being a stay at home mom, but I am a bit saddened that I have let my skills go. I wouldn't want to miss these years. Especially the younger, formative years with my kids. It just seems like my friends who are nurses and are moms have it made by working one shift per week. Or registry now and then. I realize I can't do that now because I've been away from the bedside so long...My husband says stay with the baby until he starts school. I agree, but still would like the best of both worlds. An occasional shift where my mom could watch the baby and pick up my daughter from school.

I can see it now though. Getting back into nursing and then saying "what the f*%k was I thinking?

Thanks again everybody.