how to know when to transition to inpatient?

[ivyleaf]

I have worked as a float nurse in an outpatient group, mainly in primary care but also urgent care and rheumatology, for the past 1.5 yrs. I spent 10 years before that working in various psych settings/w the psych population.

I have always wanted to work in the ED or acute care; when I left psych I applied to a bunch of positions but did not get any offers. I have been getting antsy at my current position, but there are many positives: 45 min +for lunch, flexible, i can flex time when i need to, arrive 5-10min late without issue, manager is very laid back, i can have time off whenever i want it.

I know I eventually want to work in the ED (or an obs unit or cardiac). I have gotten antsy in every job that I have had (part of my personality), and have switched jobs a lot, but am trying not to make any impulsive moves. Part of me is antsy and excited to start working inpatient, but between the perks of the job and the fact that I really like the doctor and the medical assistant at the office I've been working at recently, it is a hard decision to make.

THis wk I found out that I have the opportunity to cross train with the infusion nurse. THis will take some time/persistence for me to work out as she only works 3 days a week and is alone; plus she is still getting used to our new computer system. And there is no one set to cover me.

I am wondering how long I should stay at this job and if there is any timeline I should follow. I guess I am afraid Ill stay too long at this job since I am comfortable and then it will be harder to move into acute care.

Thoughts?