Free Time? What’s That?
Somebody really should have told you this before, but you probably won’t be getting a three-month respite from work, or that two-week winter break, or even weekends. Nursing is a 24-hour business; after all, do hospitals close during the holidays? Or ever? When you do get your entry-level nursing job, you will be surprised at how little free time you have, and how many shifts you’ll be working! Hanging out with friends, going to the pool, or even running errands during the day are things of the past. Expect to be working during Thanksgiving, especially if you’re a newbie, and/or pulling the midnight shift at New Year’s. You will not be getting a spring break. You will, however, be much more excited by your time off and really cherish your occasional three-day weekends. As the lowly nurse on the totem pole, you will probably only have between five and 10 days of vacation to take all year. This can come as a shock to your newly matriculated system, but don’t worry–you’ll adapt quickly.
The Good News:
When you do take time off for a much-needed vacation, you’ll really enjoy it! You may sleep days and work nights, but at least you’ll get to spend time with your children when many parents resort to daycare. The flexible schedule in nursing can be a blessing if you’ll let it be.
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