Tough job decisions!

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Specializes in Med-Surg/Telemetry.

I'm contemplating accepting a job offer in an outpatient surgery center. I got the offer today, less $$$ by about $3 per hour- but 8 hours more per pay period. Benefits are similar, but not quite as many perks as my current facility (like free CEs, less $ for grad school, etc)

The hours are very appealing to me, I would be back to M-F, no nights, weekends, holidays, or call. I'm told I would be started in pre-op and later learn to circulate in OR. Potentially some recovery as well.

I welcome a change in environment from the med-tele floor I've been on, as I'm feeling burned out in that environment. At the same time, having no experience in perioperative nursing, I worry that I may end up hating it!

I know its ultimately my decision to make...just throwing it out there for any advice or encouragement you all may be able to offer!

Thanks!!! :nurse:

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Specializes in Med-Surg/Oncology.

If you're feeling burned out in your current area, I definitely do not recommend staying there, because the longer you stay there the more likely you are to burnout of nursing completely. I also do not recommend, however, that you take any job offer that comes along (which it doesn't sound like you are, just saying :)) just to get out of the one you're in.

You always run the risk of disliking your new job, no matter where it is or what department, because there's many factors that are at play.. You could love the job but hate your coworkers, you could love your coworkers but hate the job, etc. This same potential exists even if you were to switch to doing the exact same job you are now at a different hospital. It's a valid fear, but you have to realize that there is ALWAYS going to be that fear of the unknown, and while it's entirely possible you could end up hating it, you could also end up loving it, and unfortunately you'll never know unless you make the leap.

The hours are a plus, IF those are the kind of hours you're looking for. Many nurses I've spoken to can't imagine going back to an 8 to 5, Monday thru Friday job. They love working their three, 12-hour days and having the rest of the week off. And then there are those who hate 12 hour days and only want their 8 to 5 job. It depends greatly on your family situation, your preference, and your future plans. You also have to consider that in an outpatient surgery unit, there are only so many types of surgeries they can do on an outpatient basis, which means one of two things: you would become pretty well versed in these types of surgeries, but it could also mean that you may feel a sense of repetitiveness after awhile - granted there are MANY types of surgeries that can be done outpatient, but it is still a risk.

Its important to follow your heart - not your mind - in situations like this. As I said, you always run the risk of disliking a new job - but it could also become the greatest opportunity of your life, and your passion, and you'll never know unless you make that move. I wish you happiness and blessings, in whatever you decide! :)

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Specializes in ER.

I'd take the job. But then again really dislike working nights, weekends, and holidays. To me, that's worth a $3 an hr pay cut. Plus getting out of the hospital....where can I sign up?!

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Specializes in Adult ICU (All over), NICU, Education.

It sounds like a great opportunity. I LOVE having my weekends off and not having to fight to have the Holiday I want off! Good Luck!

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Specializes in l.p.n.

At least you got ajob ,I just need any offer. Take the job

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Specializes in Med-Surg/Telemetry.

Thanks for the advice guys. I have accepted the job offer. I pray that this is where I am supposed to be and that I will fit in. Even if it doesn't work out long term, I'm sure the experience will make me more well rounded as a nurse.

While I'm nervous about the change, I feel very thankful to actually have options! With the current state of the economy and so many nurses (and folks in general) being unemployed, it truly is a blessing to have choices.

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Specializes in Neuroscience/Neuro-surgery/Med-Surgical/.

I am so jealous! This would be the ideal job for me....and someday i will get there too!

With the med-telemetry background you already have great experience for this kind of work, plus look at the new skills you will be learning! This can be added to the resume and make you marketable, trust me.

No nites, no weekends or holidays...hey, those are some great perks right there! Be grateful for choices in this economy! ;)

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