PMs in PACU

[t4shaffer, BSN, RN]

Hi all

Just looking for some advice. I currently work part time (0.5) in Same Day Surgery with regular hours typically 8-430 / 9-530. I also take call as a secondary nurse with PACU.

PACU recently had a job opening for 4 days a week, but evenings 12-930pm. And same type of call schedule i do now. Since I work closely with the team, they encouraged me to apply, and I even already spoke with the team lead and manager. They preferred an internal applicant, and since I already take call with them, they felt it would be a smooth transition- and that way I can get some critical experience which Ive had interest in, so they felt it would be a good fit.

I never formally applied yet for 2 reasons. First, the schedule. Evening hours with little kids at home- anyone have an opinion on this? I have a 16 month old and a 2.5 year old. Do I really want full time evening hours? Also, my current unit in same day just had some people leave, so I know the team would be hurting if I left too.

Any advice please let me know! I have been going back and forth for awhile now, and I know PACU is interviewing. So I might miss my shot. (Also appealing- amazing healthcare benefits for full time employees).

Thanks team! God bless you all for all you do!!

-Indecisive Trish!

[brownbook]

I never understood how parents with children could work a PM shift. But that's just me.

A co-worker did it but her aunt lived with her.

The co-worker was married, I don't know how much the father was involved in child care? I'm sure her kids turned out fine :).

Maybe, hopefully, a PACU 7 to 3 position will become available where you're currently taking call. Or you can check out other hospitals in the area for a PACU 7 to 3 shift.

I completely understand your desire for a more critical acute care position.

[TX.RN.Shannon]

I abhor the PM/evening shift. It is killing me, and that's with a wonderful & supportive hubby and one responsible teenager. I am actually working out my notice to get off the shift; although it is in a SNF.

There is no way in Hades I would willingly take that shift. I would rather work overnights.

But...depending on your kids' schedules and your childcare options---it may work in your favor. If you absolutely need more intense/acute experience for your immediate future plans, you may just have to wade through it.

Just don't jump into it if you are not 100% sure. Then you might be faced with a very stressful job vs. home situation, which may lead to having to find another position or a total new employer.

If I were childless and newly married/single, then I would jump on it! I worked evenings as a new LVN in a smaller hospital nearly 20 years ago, and was still a newlywed. I got experience in every department except L&D and surgery. My hubby and I made it through that just fine.