working triage calls at night

[jenmaggio]

I have recently been offered a job to work triage calls at night. My ultimate goal for the last 2 years has been to have more time with my family. I worked 8-5 for several years and it was so stressful everytime somebody got sick or had a school program or some type of practice.... I tried hospital night shift but the 12 hour shifts got to he too much. This job would be 9pm to 5am. I have an 18 Month old that I kept home working nights even when I was dog tired. I'm curious if anyone has tips or suggestions. My husband is worried I will be exhausted like i was doing hospital nights. I feel like I will be fine but I just wanted some unbiased opinions..... thanks in advance.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

I worked nights when both my kids were small. They are 11 months apart. Anytime you are up all night for any reason you are tired. For me it was worth the sacrifice. I was home for illness, snow days and parties.

[jenmaggio]

That's my thought. I'm going to put my youngest in MMO 2 days a week so I can get a little break but I enjoy being there during the day and able to go to events. I'd rather be tired than absent.