Leaving FT for Casual to transition into another speciality? Advice?

[newrnonthefloor]

Hi everyone, I need some advice.

I have been working on a medical floor for over a year, and have recently become very burnt out. I have loathed my unit from the start but it is really starting to wear on me now. I have wanted to transition into one of our mental health units (an area I want to specialize in but was unable to obtain a job straight out of school), and I have applied for positions there, but like most specialities they require six months to a year of mental health nursing experience in /that/ speciality. If no nurses apply to the positions who have that then they look at other applicants by seniority.

I spoke with the manager of my hospital's mental health units and he is willing to hire me as a casual employee in order to gain experience and be better qualified for positions as I would have the gold "six months to a year of experience" in MH. I cannot work on these units while I hold my FT job.The only thing is I would lose my benefits briefly for a few months to a year until I obtain another position.

I have a sizeable nest egg tucked away. I'm just wondering if I should take this risk and finally jump from the toxic environment I have been working in? I'm leaning to yes, as this is a step towards my dream but just wanted to seek some advice

Thank you!

[Enarra, BSN, RN]

Go for it! I would suggest Use a bit of your nest egg to pay for cobra to continue your health insurance so you are covered. Best of luck

[ljo28, BSN]

How many Hrs/week will you have to work as a casual employee. If you have financial cushion for 6months then it might be worth taking the risk. But consider the uncertainties before you make that plunge, considering that you will need benefits and given the current job market. How likely is it that you will get a FT position after the 6months.