part-time for a new grad?

allnurses Guide · Aug 28, 2003

It sounds like a great idea to me but then I'm working two 12 hour shifts a week myself. I worked full-time after graduating at 40 and burned myself out after doing it for 2 1/2 years. I think I would have felt the same way had I been 25 though. I have kids and they have to come first.

It cannot hurt to start out with less than you can manage. You can always add on. And I'd have to say that yes, part-time workers are needed to fill-in the gaps.

Best wishes -

steph

carleah · Aug 28, 2003

Thanks Stevielynn,

I appreciate hearing your feedback. I hear so many "horror stories" about how hard the first year as a nurse is that I can't help but think of how am I going to survive? I just passed all these other hurdles just to get where I am now, it would be nice just to feel I have a little control.

Can you or anyone tell me about pro rated benefits? What can I expect? Thanks, carleah

meownsmile, BSN, RN · Aug 29, 2003

The only difficulty is if you havent had much experience a lot of facilities would like you to have a certain number of full-time months in before they will let you work part-time. I hope you dont find this is the case,, but if so, go for an 8 hour shift at first to get your months in,, and then switch to 12's as part time. 12 hours shift are a major headache sometimes and if you are short on experience it might be difficult for you to get the experience you need only working part-time. Think of working part-time as it will take you twice as long to get comfortable in your new role.

carleah · Aug 30, 2003

Thanks for the feedback. I appreciate the support!

2banurse · Aug 30, 2003

There might be another option. There is a certain shift (can't think of the exact name) in which you can work just the weekend (i.e. 2 days) but be considered a full-time employee. Weekends for some hospitals are hard to schedule since many would prefer not to work those shifts.

Kris

carleah · Aug 30, 2003

I think it's called the Baylor Program. I've been trying to find out it it's available in the NY area but so far I haven't been able to. I think that would be a good option too.

kimmicoobug · Aug 31, 2003

I am a new grad finishing orientation. We have to apply for the positions we want, and one of the positions I chose was for part time med-surg.

pittsburghRN · Aug 31, 2003

IM LOOKING FOR PART TIME ALSO. APPLIED FOR 2 WAITING TO HEAR BACK. GOOD LUCK I THINK ITS VERY POSSIBLE TO FIND PART TIME OR AT LEAST SHOULD BE WITH SHORTAGES EVERYWHERE. ONE PART TIME NURSE IS BETTER THAN NONE:)

Rapheal · Aug 31, 2003

Part time is an excellent way to go. This way if you get stuck at a bad place you can handle the stress while gaining experience. This also leaves you more free time to look for a better position if your current one does not work out. Also if the job is good, you can let the other nurses know that you will be willing to cover some shifts if they need time off. A win-win situation. Many hospitals are offering benefits to part timers as well. Good luck in your future.