COVID-19. Should I return to nursing?

[mc1992]

Hi all! I have a decision to make and I’m torn, so looking for advice. My Husband and I recently moved across the country for a business opportunity. I decided not to return to nursing and planned on working for the business since it’s easier than nursing and made financial sense (we would pay someone more than my nursing salary to do what I do).

As of right now, we’ve basically shut down operations and are kind of waiting COVID19 out.

We’re financially stable enough that we’ll be okay for a few months.

I’ve been toying with the idea of taking an agency job or returning PRN until things calm down and we can resume operations. I'm also worried about COVID19 and the severe lack of PPE I’ve been hearing about from nurse friends among other things.

I feel guilty being able to work but choosing not to in a time like this. Do I go back to work temporarily or just wait it out? Am I being selfish for not going back to work when we’re headed toward a situation where we’ll need all the healthcare workers we can get?

[Anonymous666]

I’m in the same boat. I have an elderly mother-in-law living with me right now, so no, I won’t be walking into an ICU any time soon.

If enough nurses currently working walk or get sick and those money-loving wretched excuses for human beings decide to start offering attractive cash incentives, I may consider it.

[adventure_rn, MSN, NP]

Depending on where you are, there are some travel/agency jobs offering crisis pay where nurses can make bank because hospitals need so much extra support right now.

I don't know the conditions, but honestly, if I were traveler instead of a permanent staff member right now, I might consider it. Doesn't hurt to look into your options. If you get into it and discover it's terrible, you can always break your contract (since it sounds like you don't have any long-term travel goals).