Should I consider this job?

Nurses Job Hunt

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Hi everyone. I am very unsure about whether I should travel across the country to interview for a PH position that pays $38,000 a year. I already did a phone interview, so I'm thinking that the position is mine as long as I don't totally bomb the 2nd interview. I really want to move, however I do have a family to consider as well (2 small children) and the only thing making me nervous is the pay. As a BSN am I crazy to even consider that low of pay? I have no other prospects at the moment and most new grad programs in my area are not starting until the fall. Any advice?

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Don't expect to get paid more because you have a BSN. Usually staff nurse positions pay the same regardless of degree - an RN is an RN as far as they're concerned. If you want higher pay, you'll usually have to pay your dues and work your way up into management, or go back to school to get your MSN in education, administration, or advanced practice. The pay does not sound unreasonable for many areas of the country (eg, midwest), although it would be horrible in areas where the cost of living is much greater (California, NYC, etc.) Does this package include benefits? If you're going to have to purchase your own insurance, then the pay probably is too low.

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Specializes in L&D,Mother/Baby, WHNP,Educator,NICU.

Actually, I made LESS than that with a Master's degree teaching BSN nurses at a university. The only reason I taught nursing was so I could be home with my son and grade papers. So, a degree doesn't necessarily mean you get more pay. I'm back to staffing at a hospital and working night shift so I can pay for college for my kids and earn some retirement money.

Good luck in your decision!

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Specializes in Ambulatory Surgery, PACU,SICU.

You know if the cost of living is ok for the pay. It's more than new grade get in the Midwest.

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I forgot to mention that the job is located in Monroe, GA which is outside of Atlanta. (I currently live in Las vegas)

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Specializes in Clinical Research, Outpt Women's Health.

It is very expensive to move and also you would be on probation and could be without the job at any time.

So I would base my decision on whether the job market in that part of GA was much better than Vegas.

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What is PH position? and $38k seems low if it is for an entry level position. Need more info? Do you have to pay for daycare now? what about support system for your children? what made you apply for jobs in GA if you are living in NV?

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PH is public health. I have my husband moving with us and he is currently unemployed, so we don't have to worry about daycare. However, my income will be all we live on. Nevada is horrible for new grads. It could take a very long time to find something and I really need to start working ASAP. Also, we just don't like the atmosphere here and want a more family friendly environment with more greenery. The pay in Nevada is a lot better, but it is finding a position that is rough.

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PH is public health. I have my husband moving with us and he is currently unemployed, so we don't have to worry about daycare. However, my income will be all we live on. Nevada is horrible for new grads. It could take a very long time to find something and I really need to start working ASAP. Also, we just don't like the atmosphere here and want a more family friendly environment with more greenery. The pay in Nevada is a lot better, but it is finding a position that is rough.

Then I would say go for it them. I've done the same thing in the past, move to an entirely new location based on faith and change. I'd say make sure pre-plan, plan, plan. Try to get as much done before you get to GA.

Get as much info on the job before you get there so you are not suprised or have unrealistic expectations. I'm not famliliar with that part of GA but I'm in FL and the cost of housing is really low here and I would assume some part of GA.

I would go for it just based on what you said about wanting a better environment for your children and having a hard time finding a job. Try to get plugged into the community. Also, keep your resume updated and perhaps after 1yr you can try for a hospital position which I'm sure the pay will be much higher!

Good luck!

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Forgot to say with just a basic pay of $23/hr with no differentials working 72hrs as an entry level nurse, your pay should at minimum be $43k and with 1 yr experience and differentials at least $47k so if you can hold on until then and hopefully your hubby will be able to find a job, not bad.

Just brush up on your skills while doing the PH so you don't lose them.

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