My name is Brianna and I am a new grad. I am taking the NCLEX end of February and will start a new job in March.
I have a question to poll: I have 2 job offers (same hospital). One is in pediatrics (my love) on night shift, and the other is general medicine on day shift. Both full time. The night shift has a pay differential that amounts to around $10,000 more per year. BUT I am very much a morning person, usually fall asleep between 10-11pm every night, and I'm very affected (mentally/emotionally) by daylight / having time to be outside. So it would be a big adjustment for sure. I'm also getting married this year (and have 5 other weddings to attend, 3 of which I am in). And I'm a part-time yoga instructor, and planning to remain teaching at least occasional classes. Work/life balance is important to me.
I'm trying to decide which position to accept. I made a pro/con list for each unit, and I'm really torn. I definitely prefer day shift, but I've heard from seasoned nurses that you can learn a lot on night shift. I also really love pedi and would love to start on that unit (it's an inpatient unit).
Specializes in M/S, LTC, Corrections, PDN & drug rehab.
Thank you everyone!! I really appreciate all your feedback. It's helpful to get opinions from experienced nurses. I decided to accept the peds position, and while I know the adjustment to night shift will be tough to say the least, I think it was the right decision, and fortunately, I have lots of support at home!
Good luck & I hope the switch to nights goes well for you!
Pediatrics is difficult to break into, especially as a new grad. If you are being handed on a silver platter the opportunity to start off in peds and peds is your true love, TAKE IT. You're being given a gift. Learn to suck up the nights for the year or two, then move into a day position when it opens up.
On the other hand, if you are really a non-functional human being after 2000 each night--and there are people who can't work nights to save their lives because of that--then perhaps the day m/s position may be better. After a year or two, you can try to start working over to peds. But only you know if you can really handle NOC.
Best of luck whatever you decide.
ETA: I see you've chosen. Congratulations and good luck!
For me Pedi night shift. For you the day shift because you already have commitments-5 weddings, new husband and a constitution that you have stated needs the mornings...good luck sister with whatever you decide.
BriannaJune
4 Posts
It is 12 hour shifts, 36 hours/week and self-scheduling, which is nice.