need advice new mom in OB field.

[smallrn]

Hi all, I am a new mom, my baby is 12 weeks old this coming week and I have to return to work . I work in Mother baby and love it! and I work evening shift which happens to work well for my family and I since my husband works normal day hours M-F 8-3. We are moving to be closer to family and have help and we just don't want to be in the city anymore. I have interviewed for L&D night shift 3 12 hour shifts and an OB triage position M-F 8am-5 pm no weekend and holidays off!! I think both positions are considering me pretty seriously...

Im stressing about taking either of these jobs. I have always wanted to work in L&D but I despise nights they totally threw off my relationships and life last time I did them. But I know I need to work nights to every work days in that area. I would work 3 nights but would have more time to spend with my baby. I don't know if working in a clinic would give me the stimulation I need, but am willing to work it because of the hours- plus its still OB and I am sure I would learn and it would challenge me for a while. Both positions are full time and right now I don't know what position would give me more time with my baby and also be fulfilling to my life. I wish the L&D position was days and they said it takes a few years to move to days- if it were I would do that because I would have 4 days off with my little one.

I am exclusivly breastfeeding too so I want an environment that allows me to pump. I know L&D is busy so it may be hard some nights.

Any ideas or experience with working, doing something you may love ( I may enjoy either one - but I know I won't enjoy nights) and spending the most time possible with your baby?

[BSNbeauty, BSN, RN]

There are pros to cons to both positions.

Night Shift Pros:

More time with baby

More days off

Shift Diff.

Floor you want to work

Cons:

Sleep deprivation

Effects your life

Day shift OB Clinic

Pros: Holidays, nights and weekends off

More family friendly

Cons:

Its five days a week

It is the Law that where ever you work allows you to pump. So no excuses there. L and D can be very busy or very slow. You will just have to prioritize so that you can pump.

You just have to weigh out the pros and cons and do what is best for you and your family. I work M/B part time night ( I occassionally pic up extra). I love night shift because I rarely have to use a sitter and I have off most days of the week to spend with baby and hubby. However, night shifts are hard on my body and I always feel tired. However, I'm sacrificing because this is what is best for us right now. When baby gets older ( he is 8 months now) I will try to get back to day shift. Right now I love having most days off, maybe in the future I'll consider a Mon-Fri. but for right now, I love the 2-3 shifts a week.