Hi! I graduated last December with my ASN and got my RN license in March 2016. In May my friend invited me to an open house at a private duty pediatrics agency and I applied for my first nursing job. I got hired a week later and began working. I didn't apply anywhere else because I was trying to get my family life in order. The agency completely works around my schedule and I was able to continue staying home with my youngest during the day.
Fast forward to now, I'm not really dissatisfied with my job, but underwhelmed. I envisioned myself working bedside, and really wanted to work in a hospital setting. One thing I really don't like now as a new nurse, there's no guidance and I don't feel like I'm using my skills. It's not engaging enough. Unfortunately, the hospitals in my area don't hire nurses without the BSN. I could possibly get hired at hospitals a little farther away if I travel.
I'm trying to decide between staying at my job now, take out a loan and get my BSN, then apply for a more challenging job (I'm interested in eventually working CCU/ICU). Or I could go work at a hospital farther away, get tuition reimbursement, and earn valuable experience, that could help me get to where I want to be. This decision is hard for me because I make very good money now and they're very flexible. I do make a difference in my patients' lives, and for the most part I enjoy it. But, it won't count for experience and I have no one to guide me. I also don't do much of anything and apparently RNs working private duty are looked down upon. Also, I have excellent references and I feel like I should utilize them now. I know one of my references, a previous instructor, feels like I'm wasting time at this job, and could do better. I can tell she's disappointed in me for settling.
What do you all think? I understand this is a personal choice, but I would love to hear opinions.
If you're under 40, I would get my BSN. Having 20+ years ahead of you, I'd want to make sure I had the advantage of more doors open as the job market changes.
I agree with the other posts that state you are not missing anything by not working in the hospital. I would advise any RN to avoid the hospital if possible. Words cannot adequately describe the stress levels that are prevalent in most hospitals. If you have found a job you like than stick with it for now while obtaining your BSN and then see where that goes. Consider yourself blessed that you do not have to endure hospital nursing. Good luck to you.
futurecnm
558 Posts
even if you're over 40 it's worth it!!