Taking time away from career-help!

Nurses General Nursing

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I posted under nursing career, but had no response so maybe someone can offer some help here.

I am a mother of 3 young kids ( 2 yo twins and a 5 yo). I currently work part-time during the day for a state health dept. Even though it's part-time, I am struggling to be the mom I need to be and keep my sanity! I really am leaning towards taking some time away from my career, but question over and over as to whether I will regret this years down the road. I did take about a year and a half off while I was pg with twins, but then my past job offered me the part-time opportunity a year ago. At the time, I took it b/c my husband was laid off and he assisted with the childcare and I thought it would be great to get back into the workforce. Fast forward to now and he works full-time, kids are in daycare and the job is not what I thought it was. I wouldn't mind a nursing job during the evenings or even weekends, but nothing is turning up. So, will I regret this? I'm not sure how I would even keep up my license unless something pops up as I would continue looking. Thanks for any insight you can offer!

Specializes in Psych.

How about a PRN position on the weekends?

I agree, I think you should at least work a little bit to keep your feet wet. A prn position where you work once a week, or twice a month, would be ideal.

Specializes in Psych, Med/Surg, LTC.

I vote work somewhere, anywhere, prn. Do even one shift a month so you are still considered in the work force. You will be hireable that way when you are ready. I am off now a year after having a baby. I am going back just 1-2 days a month next month just so I am still considered employed. I have done this after each of my kids (I have 3) and it has not been a problem finding work. No, I am not moving forward with promotions and whatnot. That isn't important to me right now. Right now being with my kids when they are young (6,4,1) is what is important to me, but I don't want to totally throw away my career, either. I guess you can say I am on the mommy track.

I can just add my two bits from my own experience. I had been away from nusing for six years. Because of my child's health, I began having to school her at home (a full time job). I kept my license up by renewing every two years, did the CEU's etc... After six years, I took the refresher course required in Texas, and then began to apply. I was very nervous; I didn't think I was hirable, but I just kept taking steps in faith. I now have my dream job - hospice! When I look back, I can't believe how fast the 6 years flew by - I don't regret missing one day of nursing over spending time with my kids. I have one graduating this year - the days are long... but the years are short. The prn idea is great - it just didn't work for me. I needed the weekends to rest and enjoy family. I wish you the very best. I just wanted to let you know that it is not the end of the road for your nursing if you choose to stay home with your kids. Best of luck in your decision process. Now.... go give those little ones a hug! :hug:

im going back after a year and a half off to raise my little girl good luck to you :) Many nurses do it :)

Specializes in CC, MS, ED, Clinical Research.

Taking time off to raise the kids used to be the norm, okay, a very long time ago. PRN is your answer. Work when the husband is at home and don't feel guilty. Guilt never fades I'm sorry to say, but my kids laugh when I admit to it because they weren't impacted like I thought. Add hours slowly, everyone needs time to adjust.

Specializes in Women's Surgical Oncology, MIU,MBU.

Question Snowgoer...you mentioned a refresher course where are these courses offered and was it expensive? Thank you....

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