Should I change jobs?

beccaleigh72 · Jul 27, 2004

go for #2.....

OK. Here's my delimma....
Job #1~ Job is about 5 minutes away from home and pays about $15 an hour. I currently work 6p-6:30a in LTC. I really don't like it (just getting tired). It a nit-picky place and they pile on a truly unrealistic amount of work. It's very difficult to get finished with all your work in one shift without having a couple of hours overtime at the end....then you are "counseled" about your overtime! Very busy, busy place.....even at night.
I know this sounds rediculous, but I am serious....
Job #2~ From a staffing company. Working prn (the recruiter is currently looking for a "contract position" for me, so I can be assured of getting the proper hours) in a hospital and/or jail making between $26-$28 an hour (but I get the hours I want), but the drive is about 30 miles one way. I don't know if I like it, because I have only worked in LTC since I have been licensed. Should I try it at least?
Am I just being scared? SHould I give the 2nd job a shot at least to see if I like it? I've been wanting out of LTC to try something new....what'd you all think?
Just looking for some advice here~ Thanks in advance everyone!

MandyInMS · Jul 27, 2004

Give it a shot..what have ya got to lose? I'd want to work there prn a few times to see if it was what I was looking for though before I signed any contracts...good luck :)

NurseDiva04 · Jul 27, 2004

I think you should try #2. It will be new since you want out of current job. Even though it is further, the almost double in pay will surely compensate you for the extra drive! You may gain new knowledge/experiences at the new facility.

Look at it as a challenge of opportunity!

BBFRN, BSN, PhD · Jul 27, 2004

You might have a hard time as an LPN getting an agency contract in a hospital- especially if you don't have any med/surg experience. Now, you might get a contract in corrections- but ask that recruiter if you'll be getting as much pay...most state-run facilities don't pay as much as the hospitals do for agency. When I was agency, most of the hospitals around here weren't offering contracts to LPNs even with good med/surg experience (but it might be different in your area). All of my hospital hours were per diem, and if an agency RN was available, they would cancel me. I did get 40 hrs/week in a state women's prison for over a year, but the pay was less than what I would make as a staff PRN hospital LPN- and no contract was offered. The dept. of corrections around here is making it a practice to staff with full time per diem agency LPNs, because it saves them $ in the long run by not having to give them benefits- thus, no contract because with a contract you would be entitled to certain benefits. It's cheaper for them than hiring full time staff who would get good retirement benefits and full insurance coverage.

Mary Austin · Jul 27, 2004

Go for the new job. I quit a job that was 20 minutes and 15 miles away from my home. I drive 60 miles one way now and take a ferry home in the morning after work. It was so worth it. More money and a much nicer place to work. That first job was more difficult because of the "games" that went on. The new one is worth every mile I drive; staff is nicer and the system is more organized. I should have changed 15 years ago! You are a valuable person who has a lot to offer. Eventually you will find your "home" for employment. I found mine! Good luck!

veteranRN · Jul 27, 2004

Go for job # 2. For the extra money, maybe you won't have to work as many hours for the same pay.