With kids, are PD evenings or FT nights better?

Nurses General Nursing

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Hi,

I got offered a full time night shift position (3 12hr) and a Per Diem position (which would be evenings 1500-2300) at the same time. I have an 18 month old son. I want the benefits that come with a FT position, but at the same time am nervous about not seeing my son as much and adjusting my body to night shift. The PD job makes me nervous about not getting the hours and benefits though. Which shift works better for having kids? Anyone work those shifts with kids? How much time do you get to spend with them?

Thanks! :nurse:

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Specializes in MCH,NICU,NNsy,Educ,Village Nursing.

Only you can truly decide what's best for you & your son. However, I will answer your question to a point.....I've worked both shifts, with children. There are advantages/disadvantages to both. If benefits is a must, then it sounds that your choice has basically been made for you. If they aren't a must, then, at least for now, I think I would opt for the pd evening....babies grow up & are gone before we know it. Nights means sleeping during the day. Do you have someone to care for your baby while you sleep? Evenings means someone needs to care for the baby, still. What are your favorite times of day with him? Will you still be able to participate in those special times if you work nights? If you work evenings? All things to consider, imo. Best wishes to you....

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Acute HD, L&D.

As the previous poster stated, only you know what's best for you and your child. I have also worked both shifts, with children. I am currently working 0.8FTE nights for the benefits. We do what we have to do for our families. I could be working 9-5 M-F, but, I have teenaged children and I need the $$$ for now. Good luck.

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Thanks for the replies!

I have childcare for him. I was just trying to figure out which one would allow me more time with him. Benefits are nice, but not a must (I can get them through my husband). With the night shift, I would prob need childcare from 8-3 (My husband would drop him off and I would pick him up) and with evenings it would be like 2-5 (my husband would pick him up). It's just a hard decision (but I guess I should just be thankful to have so many choices!)

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