KBRN2013

I just got hired for a mental health facility that will be opening an adult unit soon. I am SO excited! I worked OB for a year, and then I've stayed home with my baby the past year so I'm happy to get back to work (per diem) . It will be an hour drive but I wont be making it everyday so I can deal with that. I also think it will be nice to start working on a new unit since I am new to the facility. I've been reading through the threads and just want to thank you all for your advice and for sharing your experiences. I will be in for a culture shock when I start but I've never felt so excited about a job before. I am so drawn to the psych world. I hope I love it. I want to learn as much as I can and help the patients as much as possible. Thanks again for all the advice, it has taught me a lot already.

I applied for a job at a mental health facility. I did not realize until I submitted my app that it is for the "STAR" program for children 5-14. (Sexual trauma and abuse recovery). Honestly, I don't know if im cut out for that. (but, will be working per diem so I wont be around it everyday) It pays $30/hr for per diem which is what I want since I am a new mom , and $35 for full time which I will want to go to eventually. That is EXCELLENT pay compared to what I was paid in the hospital setting ($19/hr). This facility is opening an adult unit in April. In nursing school, we only did 2 days in a psych setting but I liked the adult unit better, but that was 4 years ago. My question is, should I ask to shadow both units in April or should I just take what I can get? Also, if im planning on having a baby in the next couple of years, is psych a bad idea? I understand there is a risk of getting injured by pts in any setting. Would there be any less of a risk with adults or adolescents? Thanks KB