HH

[twokidsmom,rn]

I currently work at a hospital about 45min from my house. I work 3nites a week. I am interested in home health and am currently orienting with them. I would really like to make the switch but I am a little concerned about getting enough hours and the pay comparied to what I make at the hosp. I know in HH you do not get a shift diff or weekend diff which would mean I would take a cut on the weekends. But would make close to the same on weeknights.

Between the economy and the new healthcare plans not sure if it would be a wise move to make the jump. I did talk to my preceptor and she said if I am willing to work nites that I should not have any problems but I am still nervous. Any suggestions?

Thanks

[caliotter3]

You take your chances on getting full time or overtime work. You know that saying about feast and famine. Most of the agencies in my area (very large, metro) are experiencing famine. You apply for a job and they can't place you or only have a call off every month or so for you to work. That is the truth. But in better times and places, you can be working around the clock seven days a week and be getting paid overtime from a good agency. I would consider keeping the hospital job and only working a shift or two in home health until you get a feel for how much work they have to offer you. And when you make that switch, you might want to consider signing up for another agency, just to make certain that you are covering your bases. Things happen and you can't count on being on any one particular case forever. Good luck.