Jhope

I have been a nurse for a little over a year in a busy ED. I have 3 children and have been married for about 7 years. Since I've started working as a nurse, it seems that my job has really taken a toll on my married/family life. I mean let's face it, nursing in the ED is not your average 8-5 job with weekends and holidays off. With all its down falls and stressors, I love my job with a passion, but of course I love my family too. Lately, I find myself burdened with guilt that perhaps I am neglecting them. Between the two I find myself mentally and physically exhausted. Am I the only one who has this problem? Is there any advice out there?

Yes! this is exactly what I'm trying to get at. Thanks for the clarification Shannon. I too would love to hear from others on their experiences

I've always had an interest in women's health and maternal child nursing but I started out in ER and med-surg for the experience. I felt I'd have a better future after that type of work. Well, I didn't last long in those areas because I had a hard time working with the very sick and dying. I am now following my heart and will be starting L&D very soon. But is there life after L&D? I mean even after my limited experience in ER and med-surg,I was offered jobs in several different areas. Where can I go with my L&D experience? It seems opportunities are limited unless you have an advanced degree. ------------------

I am a new grad starting home health in three days! I'm really nervous about it and wonder if I made the right decision especially as a new graduate. I did spend my last practicum of nursing school in the ER and I worked there for 3 months as a GN after I graduated. One thing I really liked about the hospital was the resources, teamwork and support. Will I lose this with home health and just how different is it from hospital nursing? Other than the wear and tear on my car, I felt it would be the best for me because I have three small children and its so hard to find trustworthy childcare for shift work. [This message has been edited by Jhope (edited December 14, 2000).]