I would like some outsider perspective. I just graduated from a nursing program, and I have a job lined up, but I'm still at my current non-nursing job (nursing is a career change for me). Should I quit my current job and take my 1st nursing job or keep my current job and look for a PRN nursing job?
Here are the situation highlights:
In the past couple of years, 2 members of my family have had some ongoing health issues that have been stressful and time-consuming, and one of my children is experiencing some issues again, so there will be appointments and extra support needed.
My children are in elementary school, and I want to spend as much time with them as possible.
Husband recently took a new job-more pay and responsibility.
We have a good deal of debt and need some home repairs.
I decided to go to nursing school for many reasons-personal interest and a better chance at a steady and better income; however, since I started, my non-nursing job income has improved.
Job #1 (Current Job)-I've been there a long time, and it's a 20 minute drive. When I started the nursing program, this job was contract, so I did not get paid year round, there was very little PTO, and pay was not competitive; however, it's very family friendly (no weekends or holidays and great hours). In the past year, contract was changed so there is year-round pay, a nice pay increase, great PTO, and there's a good deal of flexibility. It still has great hours, but I'm maxed out on salary and there is not much chance for advancement.
Job #2 (Job Offer I've accepted)-It's a 1 hour drive, in a unit I'm interested in, although there has been some negative reviews with the hospital overall. They also offer a grad nurse program, which not all local hospitals do. It will mean more pay, with the possibility of making much more in the future, which could greatly help. However, since I'm starting over, my PTO will be nearly non-existent, I will not see the kids on days I work, and the schedule won't be nearly as family friendly. I'm afraid if I don't take this one, I will miss out on the training a grad nurse position offers; however, with the hospital's reputation, I'm concerned with me staying there long-term.
