NOW what do I do????Suggestions please!

[mother/babyRN, RN]

hi everyone...our unit is having a tough time both with management and people leaving, both docs and nurses....i interviewed at another unit last september and there was interest there on the part of the nurse manager, but monetarily i felt as though i was going backwards. i think, truth be told, since i have been at my current employer for 19 years with almost 14 on my current unit, much of my angst is due to the thought of newness and change....i work nights and now have to travel an hour each way...our new management is not supportive and in to control. this new option is 10 minutes down the road...the other morning, out of the blue, 3 months after my interview at the new place, the nurse manager called back and asked if i might consider signing on. the union signed a new contract and she was able to offer me a little more. currently our negotiations where i am not aren't going well and the new place has a lovely unit. i now work 8 hour shifts but am on the road over all for two. this new place wants me to do 12 hour shifts with 8 hours of flex time, which i am not sure about. i have to call her today.....what would you do? i think i might just be scared of change...where i am now is kind of being in a dysfunctional relationship...you know you need change but its scary and there is a measure of comfort there, not to mention the relationships forged....hmmmm....any suggestions and ideas would be greatfully appreciated....almost seems as though this offer came in as a sign.......and, i could still stay on the per diem staff where i am i would imagine.....help!

[ShandyLynnRN, BSN, RN]

it sounds like a good deal! Esp since if you could stay on PRN, then if for some reason you didnt like the new place, you could probably get back on at your current place without losing seniority??? I would hate the hour commute!! And as for 12 hr shifts, I have never worked anything BUT 12's, and I love it! It gives me 3-4 days off every week.

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Don't burn any bridges. But it probably isn't going to get any better. That ten minute ride verses one hours would make it wonderful to me. Don't be afraid to change. Think of it as a new learning adventure.

Good luck!

[SmilingBluEyes]

I would go for it...change can be stimulating and healthy. Sounds like a good deal. End the misery and go for it....but remember,that is what I WOULD DO...like you asked.

[mother/babyRN, RN]

I am going for it! Thank you so much. I just spoke with the new manager and she is so excited...Just had to get that push..I knew all of you would be wonderful, as always! I will keep you posted! Thanks and {{{}}} M.

[canoehead, BSN, RN]

Good luck- I also would absolutely go for the new job. A supportive management and feeling appreciated makes the world look like a much better place.

[BadBird, BSN, RN]

I think you made the right decision, good luck with your new job.

[mother/babyRN, RN]

I feel as though a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. If only I could REALLY lose weight that way! Thanks guys. I think I just needed to "hear" what I already knew.....

[SmilingBluEyes]

I wish you well! Let us know how things go!

[ShandyLynnRN, BSN, RN]

Good luck!!

[flowerchild]

After 19 years, I would be taking a very close look at my retirement plan before leaving your current employer. 20 years vs 19 can make a BIG difference in pay out later. It might be worth it to stay a while longer to reap all the benefits you have earned rather than losing them. If you have such a plan, which I hope you do.

If you choose to go per diem, you might not have an option of coming back FT with the seniority you have earned. You might have to start over.

[renerian, BSN, RN]

I commuted to several jobs in the past. I just could not bear it anymore. I think you will love the closeness of another one. I understand also your being a little scared. I would go for it though. Could be very exciting to step out of your comfort zone. Keep us posted.

renerian