Hello all! I know it has been a very long time since I have posted a blog, but I have a good reason. I started a new job! Keep reading to hear how I landed the job and my orientation experience.

My goal since graduating nursing school has always been to have a PRN gig along with a full time job. I have actually been searching for a PRN job for months and after many rejections and applications, I accepted a position as a PRN Pediatric Emergency Nurse. I still can’t believe it!

WHY PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY?

This actually was my “dream job” upon graduating from nursing school. I actually was trying for a full time job in this exact department, but never had the opportunity to interview with the manager. Instead I interviewed with the Adult side manager…

If anyone has been reading the blog since my college days, you would remember I have experience working with children and families. Since working on the adult side, I have not enjoyed a single day of work because I miss working with smaller patients and overbearing parents. This new job will help align with my new short term goals of knowledge building and my long term goal of schedule flexibility.

WHAT DID ORIENTATION LOOK LIKE?

My orientation was a total of six weeks. Six weeks is what my hospital system requires for experienced nurses. The weekly requirement was two twelve hour shifts a week on top of my full-time job requirement. This meant some weeks I was working six days a week. I pushed through, because this is something I really want to do. All my preceptors were amazing and had so much knowledge.

WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF THIS PROCESS?

The hardest part has been this sudden realization that I have so much more to learn. This has been very overwhelming. Of course, confidence comes into play, but this will come in time. I will admit I have spent a lot of my time off reviewing some content. As far as tasks, getting an IV is a challenge on the chubby babies and kids. I am hoping I will get better at this over time.

WHAT ARE THE JOB REQUIREMENTS?

As a PRN employee, I fill in where the department has needs. This is a night shift position, so I must work two twelve hour night shifts a month and take one on call shift every three months. I can pick up additional shifts as I desire.

There it is, a quick summary of my new job! This also gives a brief explanation of why I was way for so long. Overall, I am so grateful to be a part of the team and be given a chance to learn and grow. I am also excited because this job open up a whole new level of content for me. Stay tuned as I try to get this blog organized! Thanks for reading!