A question for the nursing moms.

NickiJules · Dec 10, 2011

I would absolutely choose to work less and be with my children more! Even if it was just temporarily. But for financial reasons, I am working full-time.

AngRN6726 · Dec 10, 2011

Thanks Nicki, the financial side of it is hard.

LaurenBoog · Dec 10, 2011

If I had a choice? Absolutely part-time. I just had a little one and I am dreading working full time, even though it's only 3 days a week! You could always work "officially" part time and then pick up a day or two on the schedule to cover any extra expenses. That's what many of our part time nurses do. That way, they aren't obligated to work extra unless they need to.

RNperdiem, RN · Dec 10, 2011

I work per diem on the more financially lucrative weekend shifts. Husband does weekend child care, so we do not have to pay for that.

I would choose part time.

Full time with 3 kids would be difficult.

Are you working full time now, and are you a new nurse?

anurseatlast · Dec 10, 2011

Children grow up quickly - which you know with a 16 year old. You only have a short time with your kids at home. If you have a choice, I would definitely work part-time. Not only do you get to spend more time with your kids, but I think there is less stress than when both parents are working full-time. A teenager and two very young ones - you will definitely be busy enough without working fulltime. Give yourself time to enjoy them!

AngRN6726 · Dec 11, 2011

thanks laurenboog, anurseatlast,and rnperdiem! children do grow up so fast, it is amazing 16 years have gone by in half of a blink. i worked too much i think while raising my boy, i regret it but i was a single mom, didn't have much of a choice.

now , i am married, new nurse, and working per diem. tried very hard to find a position in acute care but like many , its been a year of looking and nothing! we've had to budget but so far its kind of working with my pd hours and i love that i get to spend so much time with my little one and do my school online.i feel blessed it worked out this way. however, i might have an opportunity for a snif position, pt or ft and with you guys' advice and what my heart tells me, i will try for the pt if they consider me.

thanks everyone!:)