Need some guidance

[hlpurpura]

Hello,

I desperately need wisdom. I have been working on Med/Surg now for 2.5 years, and I'm ready to move on, and have been waiting for an opportunity for some time now. I was offered an ICU training programs position, however it's night shift, and the commute is a good hour or so. I have never worked nights and don't know if I can handle it on top of 2 hour commute. Which is my biggest fear with accepting this job, is the fear of the commute and the night shift. I have three kids (14, 10 and 9) and a husband, and I don't want to lose time with them. I know this is an incredible opportunity, and don't want to miss it, but I may have to wait another 1-2 years ay my current job (which is about 5 min from my house) for an opening to another program. (Which would probably be nights also, but at least its closer) Am I crazy if I turn down this opportunity??? Any insight is greatly appreciated!!!

[FuturenurseL]

Do you like everything else about your current job? Hours,pay coworkers etc...If all else is good it were me I would stay put until something else comes up. The idea of driving 2 hours a day and being away from family longer would be difficult if I didn't have to do that.

[kbrn2002, ADN, RN]

That is a brutal commute, especially if you live in an area where weather can be a factor. Even harder when you consider driving that distance after a night shift when you are not used to those hours. Tough call though. Just my opinion, but if you like where you are now I would say stay put until something opens in the hospital you are at.

[hlpurpura]

Thank you both very much for your advice, I really appreciate you taking the time to reply. It's such a hard decision, but I think I am going to stay where I'm at. :)