Would you commute an hour to a job you wanted?

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Currently doing 12 hour overnights in a job I'm not very fond of, mostly clock watching. But this job is 15 minutes away. I have been offered a position I'd really enjoy, on the day shift, but requires a one hour commute each way. Live in an area where the winters can be dreadful. Any thoughts?

Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

I would totally do it if it was for a great job. Utilize that time for books on tape, catching up on phone calls if you have Bluetooth, etc.

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Its not really a choice where I live, all of the hospitals are at least in hour away in each direction. I'm also on a tri-state line so my options for job hunting were very limited until I endorsed to the other states. I actually enjoy the drive (besides in bad weather).

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Specializes in ICU, OR.

What did you decide, @nursebythesea? I am in a similar position while job hunting. How far is too far for that dream job? I'm worried about falling asleep on the way home from night shift. Otherwise, I think it's doable.

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Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.

An hour commute is about the upper limit I'd accept, but yes, I'd do it. A commute can be a great time to decompress. I have a bluetooth headset for my phone and call all my friends on the opposite coast during my drive!

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, Transport, L&D, Hospice.

a long commute was not acceptable to me when my children were young. now I am old and it is much more acceptable to me

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I'd totally do it. I'm student nurse at the moment and commuting 4h/day to attend the nursing program I wanted to go. I've a nursing program in my city as well, but has not as good reputation as the one I'm in.

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Specializes in ER.

I did it as a PCT because it was in an ER that I would never see people I knew. However, I was last hired so I was first laid off and ended up 20 minutes away in a hospital ER where I saw people I knew all the time.

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Specializes in Med/surg, Tele, educator, FNP.

Yes an hour is not too bad. Make a list of the pros and cons of the jobs. What if the only con is the hour drive and there is like 20 pros?!? I think you need to think of both good and bad and if the cons outweigh the pros then no don't do it!

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I ended up staying close by. I have 2 children at home. I thought It would be better to stay close enough to get to their school, for when the nurse calls, sporting events, etc. But Im regretting the decision and looking around again!

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