New grad starting two jobs

llg, PhD, RN · May 3, 2016

Assuming you are an average person ... you are taking on too much. Get settled in your full time job before taking on an extra commitment. Being a new grad is tough enough as it is without adding more stress and exhaustion on top of it.

Of course, it might go fine. You might be far above average in your abilities. But I wouldn't take that chance and gamble with my career by not focusing on my primary job in the beginning.

Been there,done that, ASN, RN · May 3, 2016

You need to learn how to apply what you learned in school, before you spread it too thin.

Ask yourself why a home care agency would hire a new grad. It is to make money for the agency.

You will be the only health care professional assessing the home care patient. That responsibility takes experience.

elkpark · May 3, 2016

Bad idea.

NightNerd, MSN, RN · May 3, 2016

I agree with the above posters. Give yourself time to adjust to the new full time position and get really comfortable with your skill set before taking on a second job. I'm talking at least a year. If supporting yourself requires more than 36 hours per week, I'm sure there will be overtime available.

AnnieOaklyRN, BSN, RN, EMT-P · May 3, 2016

I agree with everyone else, stick with the new grad job and get settled and learn what you are doing first, then do the home nursing if you want to in a year or so. You will be surprised how EXHAUSTED you will be after a 12 hour shift and a 36 hour work week! You will need to focus on the learning you will need to work on whatever floor you were hired for as a new grad. Also I am of the opinion that a new grad should not be doing home care because of the lack of experience.

I think starting two jobs simultaneously, even if you are not a new grad, is a set up for failure.

Annie

Pangea Reunited, ASN, RN · May 3, 2016

I don't know you or your capabilities, but it's certainly not something I would have done as a new grad.

Marisette, BSN, RN · May 3, 2016

I don't know you or your capabilities, but it's certainly not something I would have done as a new grad.

Hmm, it's not something I would do with 27 years in nursing. I don't believe 16 hours of work is good for nurses or patients. During my first year of nursing, I remember working with nurses who looked like zombies going on their 16th hour shift numerous days. I know the patients were not getting the best care possible. I question the safety of this practice as far as patient care is concerned. As a new grad, I would think this increases the possibility of making mistakes related to exhaustion. I don't believe in placing patients lives at risk.

scooterscamp123 · Jun 8, 2016

Thanks everyone! Currently working one job now and it's definitely provided a better work life balance

llg, PhD, RN · Jun 9, 2016

I think you have made a wise choice. Good luck!