Would it look really bad for a new grad to start out in a Dr's office? I graduated almost a year ago and have stayed home since then with my new baby. Now I have a really good offer at an OB/Gyn office (4 days a week, no nights/weekends/holidays, better pay than hospital for new grads). But I can also take a hospital position (telemetry.. not my fave) that has an 18 week RN Residency. I know that one is better for my nursing career, but I also have to consider that the office job is better for my family right now.
Am I making myself totally unmarketable by starting in an OB/Gyn office? I have to decide today..
I ultimately want to end up in L&D within the next 2-4 years.
I would say choose the job that allows you time with your family. Your kids will grow up and be out of the house faster than you can even imagine. That brand new baby needs to bond with you. Jobs come and go, but your family is your true foundation. Good luck in your decision.
i agree, go with the Dr office, it is obgyn so you will have experience in prenatal care and you can pick up on some L&D things while you are there, and the hours are great! good luck! you will do great!
Do what's best for you and your family right now. Later, when kids are older and you're all ready for a change, you shouldn't have much trouble -- if any -- finding a hospital unit to train you, if that's what you want. Good luck!
I agree with llg and say to call the L&D manager and ask her what experience she perfer that you get. I am not saying the office job won't help. I know that the L&D nurses at my facility had to take telemetry classes, ACLS, and PALS. I remember the L&D nurses had some trouble with this since it was a new requirement for them. This will give you a edge.
In reality I think you need to do what is best for your family. If that would be the office position then take it.
Gosh - is this really only an "either - or" decision? In my experience, there is always room for negotiation.
Sounds like the dr's office is best for you right now. FYI, Magnet-related studies found that telemetry units are one of the most dissatisfying & 'unhealthy' places to work in hospitals -- Oncology & clinic settings were fpimd tp be the best.
Let the OB docs know your long-term aspirations. They'll likely be supportive. Maybe even letting you round with them in the hosp & possibly even participate in deliveries (depending on hospital rules & regs) - this can be arranged if you are approved via the med staff credentialing as a physician 'extender'.
Although clinic jobs can sometimes just be glorified clerical work, most docs think they are teachers - and they love to teach. You could learn lots.
If you spend any length of time at the office you can (and will likely be told to) take a review course in order to work at a hospital. Nothing wrong with that. The comment of extra hours is almost ALWAYS true if you are a hospital nurse. Whether 5 days/eve/nites or 12.
Specializes in Med Surg, Nursing Administration for SNF.
Sounds like the office job is almost "heaven sent". Also, how cool is that to have that kind of experience under your belt when you do transfer to the L&D unit. Although most of the hospitals I've seen around here require a year of med surg before theyll put someone in L&D, you can still go back later - pay your dues on the med surg floor and it will easier to transfer from within the hospital. Good luck!!!
I'd go with the office job. Let the OB/GYN doc know your keen interest and L&D; could be you'll slip into a position where you would be able to continue your education and assist the doctor in the hospital portion as well.
Well thanks everyone for your advice. I went ahead and accepted the OB/Gyn job with the physician yesterday. I don;t know if I feel good about it yet or not.. I do have some sadness about missing out on a new grad residency.. but hopefully this will work out for the best. Thanks again!
Absolutely go with the office job if it's best for you now. You can always get your L&D skills later. You will always be marketable, someone will always be willing to train you. Nurses change specialties all the time. Which means they have to be trained. Great pay with holidays and weekends off? no nights? Grab it before someone else does!!
fallrisk2008
14 Posts
I would say choose the job that allows you time with your family. Your kids will grow up and be out of the house faster than you can even imagine. That brand new baby needs to bond with you. Jobs come and go, but your family is your true foundation. Good luck in your decision.