Too old for OB?

Published

I have been a school nurse for many years. I worked for one year in OB and loved my job but I ran into a lady my mom knew and she offered me a school nurse job and they convinced me to apply for better hours. I got the job and immediately knew I didn't enjoy the job as much but we were getting ready to start our family and I thought it would be a better fit family wise. My youngest is now in high school and the others are on their own. I've been thinking I have another 15 years to work and seriously contemplating returning to the hospital for OB if I can find a job. I'm just ready for a change and the extra money would be nice. However, I know lots of people are trying to get away from the hospital and shift work at my age and not run back towards it. I'll be 50 soon. Everyone thinks I'm crazy. Should I just stay where I am and chalk it up to the grass is always greener or go for it?

Specializes in L & D and Mother-Baby.

I am 56 and have been a L&D nurse for almost 14 years. I am considering a change as well but I'm still hanging in there. I work part time in a busy L&D and have at least 9 years until retirement!!

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Mother-Baby Pediatrics.

How is it going? I am 50 and just started as a postpartum nurse, I hope to train to labor next year. I worry about age bias. Any reason to worry?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Yes, how is it going? I've been thinking of making the switch from school nursing to OB myself.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I did not experience age bias as several of the nurses working there were older and they were all very supportive of each other in general.

I ended up returning to school nursing. The job itself was fine and I enjoyed learning new things but the hours and schedule after being used to a normal one for so long was something I quickly realized not worth giving up. Plus they started adding lots of call and call-in's and I just quickly felt like a body again. Also, after being used to being in charge of myself it got old fast having so many people (managers, doctors, patients etc) boss me around all day. So I'm glad I tried it for a while to know the grass isn't greener.

2
Up Vote Up Vote ×
2 hours ago, TinyDancer01 said:

The job itself was fine and I enjoyed learning new things but the hours and schedule after being used to a normal one for so long was something I quickly realized not worth giving up.

I hear you. I left a coveted flight position to work in an onc clinic and although I am not nearly challenged as much the regular schedule allows me to feel human.

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LDRP.

Hello all! I'm 47. Just wanted to post my experience in case it is helpful. I graduated from nursing school in May 2018 (second career). I was fortunate - I did my practicum in LRDP at a local hospital - my dream job. They hired me in August 2018. I work 24/36, 3a-3p. I just wrapped up my L&D training (I was independent in post partum soon after starting). I can tell you - it's amazing if it's your passion. Sure, the hours are grueling and my back can hurt (holding a leg and twisting to chart for hours).... but so far, it's amazing. My idols on the unit are in their 60s (and actually they are of all ages if I'm being real). So it's doable!! I love my job - new nurse AND a hair past mid-life!!

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LDRP.

LDRP ? - always get those letters mixed up

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion