HELP: Must choose Methadone Clinic Job Offer Tomorrow

[skittlebear]

Hi everyone,

I got a job offer today to work in a Methadone Clinic. Due to the high volume of applicants and their need to fill the position quick they told me that I must make my decision tomorrow. Talk about being nervous.

I do love my current job but the pay is horrible so I work extra hours to compensate. Also, a lot of nurses have been laid off. I am worried about my job security in my current position.

Working in a Methadone clinic has always appealed to me for some reason. I would like to help those that help from chemical dependency. I also love routine work and am very detail oriented.

I need insight. For those of you who work in a Methadone clinic, what is your typical day like? What do you like about it? Dislike about it?

[skittlebear]

Okay, I'm still actually considering this. Am I crazy? Lol

[RENnurse4/17]

You did say in your op that you loved your current job!

[lilia123]

I once interviewed for a methadone clinic a few years ago, it seemed like I'd be a bartender except I am bartending methadone, plus I dislike routine and I would be behind a plate glass window. I knew once I saw the big barreled methadone jug and plate glass that this was a no no for me. everyone is different.

[skittlebear]

You did say in your op that you loved your current job!

Yes, RENnurse4/17, I kept going back and forth in my crazy brain. I did decide to stay where I'm at. I am happy there. It may be more money at the clinic, but what is money without happiness?

[crispycritter]

Hello, I never worked at a methadone clinic, but I did work crisis detox for a while as an LPN. I would say that if you have thick skin, positive attitude and a true desire to help then addiction work can be good. A lot of the clients you will be dealing with have other problems besides the addiction, a lot have mental issues as well as life issues (homeless,ptsd,bipolar, etc). It is hard to do this kind of job without a supportive management, or a supportive medical staff. It was too much for me too deal with, and I was unhappy, so I moved on. If u decide to take the job, make sure u cover yourself through documentation, make sure wastes are recorded and double signed and don't involve yourself too much in the petty BS at work. Don't become too sensitive to the clients sob story's, do your job and leave it at work! Might work out for you, if handled right it can be a lower stress job compared to prison (yes also worked at a prison) nursing or LTC nursing. Good luck

[Tele181036]

I realize this post is a little late however: My first job out of school was Per-Diem at a methadone clinic. I obviously had my reservations about working there but I LOVED it! I realize I sound like a crazy person but I enjoyed the clients. I liked that I saw addiction from a different point of view; I learned about their lives, their stories, their families and their struggles. You NEED to be organized, to have a strong back bone and conflict resolution skills. I eventually left the job because of a change in management. If this is something you're interesting in though I would recommend pursing it, one great thing about nursing is you can always take a per-diem that way you don't have to leave your current job!

[Anna S, RN]

I recently met a newly retired RN who advised me to get into methodone clinic nursing. She said it was the easiest nursing job she ever had. but it doesn't look like easy is what you're looking for.

To have a job you love as a nurse is precious.

Anyway, mgmt turning a blind eye to nurses diverting- that's a huge red flag. Glad you're happy w/ your current job!