I am torn....any advice??

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Specializes in med/surg, hospice, peds, skilled rehab.

I have a BSN and work have worked my entire nursing career (9yrs) at a local hospital. I currently work day shift on a med/surg unit, 3 12hr shifts. I enjoy my job but it is very stressful, we often work short, and I am a float, so I never know where I will be working or for how long, adding to my stress. I should note that I have many health issues recently (mainly GI related).

I have also been a substitute classroom and clinical instructor for an LPN program for 2 years, which I absolutely love doing.

I recently decided to go back to school and will be starting next month for MSN-AGNP. I need a change and have for some time.

A position is now available full time at the LPN school and there are 2 of us being considered. At first, there was no question I wanted this position; but after thinking about it, now I am wondering if it's the right choice. Working for the LPN school will mean less pay (way less!) and it will affect my availability for clinical hours next year in school. But it is better hours, less stress, and something I love doing. I have a list of pros and cons for each, and the pros for the LPN program far outweigh the pros to stay at the hospital. But...I am worried about not being able to complete the 144 clinical hours in each of my 11 week quarters. I don't start the clinical hours for a year, so I have time to figure that part out. I keep going back and forth and it seems like when I think I have decided, I change my mind again. I may not even be offered the position, but if I am..I honestly don't know what I will do.

Any advice? Has anyone faced a similar situation?

Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

What is your ultimate goal? If it is clinical practice as an AGNP, then the teaching gig does not really add any value other than convenience. OTOH, if you were aiming to become a nurse educator, that instructor job would be much more relevant.

Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

I agree with HouTx ... base your decision on your ultimate goal. Which moves you in the direction you want to go? Also, since the stressful job pays a lot more, is there any way you can cut your hours there to ease the stress? You seem to be prepared to live on the lower pay of the school job ... so could you cut your pay/hours on the more stressful job and work only part time?

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