Did l make the wrong choice?

[Smashere RN, BSN]

I recently changed hospitals from a level 1 trauma to a local hospital. I moved thus the need for change to cut the drive.

The new hospital is pretty new, about 5-6 years in operation. Problem is l feel limited in what l can do. The patients that frequent the hospital are less sick verses the trauma and sicker patients am used to. Also, am limited in what am allowed to do.

Now am worried l might forget all the skills l had learned in the past 7 years of trauma. Am second guessing myself whether to go back to trauma. The new hospital is close and the pay is the same as what l got in trauma, which is 45 minutes away.

should l just suck it up or leave before it's too late?

[JKL33]

I would definitely ask the Level 1 if they can use you per diem. They may say no, but you won't know until you ask and IMO working at L1 regularly but not as your FT job may be the balance that you need. You make your main income a little closer to home with a little less stress and yet keep your other skills in good working order as well as stay up-to-date on what's going on in the trauma world.

Best of luck ~

[virgo7598]

OP: I just took a job at a level 1 trauma center. Do you have any good books/pocket guides/resources that might help my transition from Med/Surg to Trauma a little easier?

[cleback]

Is trauma your thing? Sounds like it. I'd definitely ask if you can remain at your old job prn, to keep your foot in the door. If the current job doesn't work out, hopefully you can go back to trauma. I currently commute close to 45 minutes... not ideal but it's manageable.

[Smashere RN, BSN]

Trauma is usually fast paced and thing can change to the worst in a blink. The hospital provided us with the resources we needed plus we had the hospital library. Double check what your hospital utilizes for new staff and preceptor can give you great pointers too.

[Smashere RN, BSN]

I'll probably give the new hospital a try and check my options for per diem. Thanks