Nurses with 2 jobs

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Hi everyone! Just wondering when is a good time to get a 2nd job. A good friend of mine just became an RN and works in the hospital and she is already looking for a 2nd gig at a LTC. Is that a good mix? I know it depends on the person but I just want others opinions. Thanks!

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I was literally just about to post a question about this! I was wondering how long I should work before getting a per diem job on the side. Not to kills myself, 2-3 shifts a month just to help me out with my bills.

If anyone does reply to this, I have another question as well. Since I work in med/surg, should I not try to work per diem on a different floor? Do I have do do m/s too because that's all I have experience with?

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I had picked up a second job within six weeks of obtaining my license. After not working for 18 months, I really wanted to replenish my savings account.

My primary job entailed 16-hour weekend double shifts at a nursing home every Saturday and Sunday. I received 40 hours of pay plus full benefits from this weekend job. In addition, I had Monday through Friday off.

I worked several PRN shifts during the week at a psychiatric hospital.

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I don't see any reason not to take on a second job PRN when one feels capable, physically and emotionally, of regularly picking up an extra shift per week.

However, be aware that the PRN facility may expect a full-time schedule during the orientation period. When I started my second job, I had to use vacation time at the first job to do the orientation. Someone who just started is not going to have vacation time. Maybe someone else could work two full-time jobs for a few weeks. I couldn't.

She also needs to know that LTC is a totally different ballgame from acute care. She should not expect her current experience to carry over hugely (this is true even of more experienced nurses changing to LTC), and, especially as a new grad, she will NEED orientation, and more than just a shift or two.

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I had picked up a second job within six weeks of obtaining my license. After not working for 18 months, I really wanted to replenish my savings account.

My primary job entailed 16-hour weekend double shifts at a nursing home every Saturday and Sunday. I received 40 hours of pay plus full benefits from this weekend job. In addition, I had Monday through Friday off.

I worked several PRN shifts during the week at a psychiatric hospital.

Can I pm you?

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
Can I pm you?
You certainly can PM me.
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