Looking for some career insight

[nursenancy27]

Hello all! I am new to allnurses and am looking for some career advice. I've been a nurse for 2 years now, I spent 1.5 years at a hospital I loved working in med/surg/tele. I became bored/burned out and decided to leave to pursue critical care at another hospital. I love critical care and can't see working in any other specialty. However, I am kicking myself for leaving my original facility. There were so many intangible things that make a job enjoyable that I naively overlooked as a relatively new nurse. Fortunately, a few positions opened up in critical care at my old facility and I'm very interested in going back (if they will take me!). However, with only 6 months at the new job, do you think this would be a poor career move? Thanks!

[solneeshka, BSN, RN]

Apply! This kind of thing is not that unusual, and you have a great reason to give to your "new" employer - you realize how much you loved working for them in the first place and you want to go back! Keep in mind that it might close doors at your current facility, unless it's very large. But based on what you say, it sounds like the right thing to do.

[nursenancy27]

Thanks solneeshka! Does anyone else have any advice or opinions?

[Marshall1]

Apply!! If you were happier there and have the opportunity to return in the specialty you are happy in why not? If you leave where you are at that opens a slot for another unemployed or unhappy nurse..you could always remain PRN if that would make you feel better but either way - you will kick yourself for at least not trying. I've never understood the "got to stay 1 year" thing - if the job isn't a good fit why waste your time/life on it?

[Havin' A Party!, ASN, RN]

Have you completed your ICU orientation? If not, I'd say finish that first, then try things where you are for a spell.

If then you're still wanting to go back, apply at your previous place.

Make sure you furnish your current facility all their requested notice if / when you leave.

Good luck!

[Auntie dearest]

Nurses change jobs all the time- just don't burn any bridges. Take any opportunity that comes your way- just be professional in all that you do

[nursenancy27]

Thanks for all the thoughtful advice! I did decide to apply and am now just waiting to see if I will get called for an interview. In response to Havin a Party, I am finished with my orientation and have been working independently for 3 months already.