small town or big city?

[nicki]

I am just starting out in the nursing field and have a chance to work at a small 40 bed hospital. I will do it all ob, med/surg and er. Is it smart to start with so much or would I be better off going to a bigger hospital where I can stay in one area?

[fergus51]

Depends on your personality. Do you feel ready to work in a small hospital where back-up might be minimal? If so, I would think it would be a great experience. If not, it would be terrifying!

[Rustyhammer]

I vote for the small hospital.

You never know what will come through the door and you have the chance to live in a smaller community where (I believe) the quality of life is soo much better.

[petiteflower]

I vote for the small hospital too. I have worked in both, Small hospitals give you a chance to gain and sharpen skills in many areas, not just one. It will also give you a chance to try everything and find your passion. I find working in a small hospital that I never get bored, because it is never just the same kind of patients all the time. The only thing that I wish was different is we don't keep any critical patients, we always ship them (which I guess isn't all bad, because that means an ambulance transfer for me---which I love)

[CATHYW]

I go with the small hospital, too. Unless you receive a busload of patients, the rate of patients coming through the door should allow you to learn what you need to. Then you will be a very well-rounded nurse, with experience in almost all areas.