Need some advice on possible job change

Blee O'Myacin, BSN, RN · Dec 22, 2007

I am currently working PRN - nights. I have found over the almost 2 years of doing this that I am sick all the time, depressed and hate going to work. Right now I have a job opportunity that would allow me to work 8-5 (at the latest) two to three days a week. The only thing that is holding me back is that I will have to find childcare after school. I have discussed what will happen with my son and he is agreeable - (he really hates me being gone over night).
I am just thinking that maybe if I have this more "normal" schedule I will feel better and enjoy nursing again. I have thought about doing days at the hospital - but with a child that would really stink! I would leave before he left for school and be home after he is in bed!
I would really appreciate any advice - I need to accept this position ASAP! Thanks so much!

Do it. There are plenty of high school aged girls and boys who are interested and able to babysit for a few hours after school. You will be getting home early enough to give him a good dinner and go over his homework. A lot of schools also offer after school care until 5 or 6pm (our district's late pick up time is 6:45p).

I do days at a hospital and it's only 3 days per week. My husband works second shift, so we have a high schooler come in on the few days per week that we have four hours where no one would be home with the kids (who are all in elementary school). It works out for all of us pretty well. I do hate having to get them right off to bed as soon as I get home when I have to go in the next day, but I'll put off bedtime for a half and hour or so just to hang around and talk to them.

Good luck - night shift took a lot out of me as well.

Blee

ebear, BSN, RN · Dec 22, 2007

You won't ever get this time back with your children. Do whatever is necessary to spend time with them! You'll be SO glad you did. The job sounds like a great opportunity to me. Go for it! You yourself will benefit greatly too by giving up nights.

GrumpyRN63, ADN, RN · Dec 23, 2007

I agree w/everyone posting, nites takes a huge toll on your mental and physical well-being. When you switch to a normal schedule you'll feel great,and will be much more available to your kids-mentally,physically,everything

I agree the 12 hr days would be bad, they really turn into 14 -15 hr days /travel,and is too long to be away from the kids. Hire or get afterschool care 2-3 days, kids usually enjoy this anyway. Would be esp good if the days stay consistent, I find constantly changing schedules is the greatest hurdle with childcare, people need set schedules, esp the babysitters or childcare programs

Good Luck,Go for it!!!

caliotter3 · Dec 24, 2007

Sounds to me like this is a good opportunity to improve your home life and health in general. It should work out well with the help of an after school sitter like advised. Good luck and hope you get to feeling better with your new schedule.