Working to become more competitive - advice needed

[Alana R.]

I have 3 semesters left of nursing school. While in school, with my first degree I work part-time at a local college, teaching general education classes. Today I just got offered a position, Detox Tech, graveyard, at a rehabilitation center.

They do not have RN's, all they have are counselors and Detox Techs. I was interested in this job in order to gain some healthcare experience, however, patient contact will be minimum on my shift, and the tasks are routine, more like clerical, not challenging at all for my skills. Plus, I would have to quit teaching. I do not even care about the low pay, or graveyard shift, what I need though is to be more competitive once I graduate nursing school.

What do you think would be better for me? What makes me more competitive? Would you rather see on a resume 2 years of experience as an Instructor or as a Detox Tech? Should I continue teaching, which is challenging, interesting, complex, or accept the Detox Tech position which seems boring but gives me some healthcare experience? Thank you very much, I greatly appreciate your advice!!!

[OKNurse2be]

I would stick with the teaching job personally. I am not sure how much the "detox Tech" job would benefit you in the long run, and it's better to stay with something that you enjoy than be miserable just for the sake of "a little experience." You teaching experience can be a valuable asset later because a lot of pt communication involves teaching the pt, so you do have some valuable experience to bring to the table.

[Alana R.]

Thank you very much OKNurse2be, I just declined the Detox Tech position and I am confident I made the right choice :)

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

Agree with OKNurse2be. That is not enough of the right kind experience anyway. Also, since you know this job you will have less stress than if you are going to school and learning a new job. Nights suck either way

[Katie71275]

A lot of people here find it beneficial to be employed as a nurse tech. I won't say it's guaranteed you will be offered a position once you grad with your RN, but it's highly likely!

[Alana R.]

Thank you Katie! Great advice!

[Cali_Nurse_209]

A lot of people say they want @ least a yr of healthcare experience. But since you have a steady job it's probably better that you keep it. Maybe try volunteering @ a hospital in the Summers. Sorry I initially misread your post the 1st time.

[nohika]

A lot of people here find it beneficial to be employed as a nurse tech. I won't say it's guaranteed you will be offered a position once you grad with your RN, but it's highly likely!

I think OP was more hesitant about it because there were no RNs in the place so it may not really have led to anywhere.

[Alana R.]

Thank you Nurse2b209! :) That is an awesome idea!

nohika, you are correct, one reason for my hesitation was the fact that there were no RN's in the place. Thank you for the clarification!