Which would you choose- MICU or PSYCH?

[RNgrrl09]

Hi. Some background information. New grad RN started out in LTC worked six months. Before and during that time, I applied everywhere and recently started in the MICU at a hospital- after looking for a year (graduated December 2008). Nice hospital, nice co-workers- coming to the end of my orientation period.

Just recently the state just called back, I interviewed and I was offered a position at the state psych facility that is 15 minutes from my home (I commute 2 hours each way for my present position). I am tempted- the only thing I don't like is that the state position is 5 days, every other weekend on 2nd shift. The state position is more money- besides pay being higher ($4.00/hr more without the shift differential I would be making at the state and including the differential at my present position- currently I work 7a - 7p, 3 days and every 3rd weekend), my employer will pay for me and my family's insurance- dental, health, vision and life. I don't have to pay for gas- I can walk to work and I don't have to pay for highway tolls- so it does come out as a significant increase in take home pay. I am worried that I am not thinking too far ahead. If I don't like the state facility and my new co-workers- I will be giving up a place that is welcoming and a good learning environment and excellent experience. I know that after a year at my present job, I can basically write a ticket to work anywhere. It is just that I am really tired- trying to learn everything that I need and trying to take care of my family too. Would I be making a mistake leaving the MICU after getting that hard earned hospital position (it took me one year to land a hospital position) and at a nice facility- it would be nicer if it paid more and was closer to home and .... Anyway, would it be a mistake to leave the MICU to be in Psych? If I don't like it, will it be just as hard or harder to find another hospital position? I am older and plan on going back to school for advanced practice (NP or CRNA depending upon where I end up) position. I feel such a fool:jester: !! Thanks for listening.....

[Patchouli]

Well... if you plan on obtaining your CRNA, I would stay with the MICU. However, if the NP is your goal, Psych would probably work out fine, especially if you plan on staying in that field with your NP. There are obvious advantages and disadvantages to both. Only you can really make that decision. I wish you luck on whatever you decide : )