Nomadic Nurse Diaries

Dear Heart-Eyed Gossip Gods of the Correctional Facility,

You know those moments when your life feels like a plot straight out of a soap opera? Well, welcome to my current dilemma—dating coworkers. And not just any coworkers, but coworkers in a male-dominated field where I’m the only female on shift. Because why wouldn’t life throw me this curveball?

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Nomadic Nurse, how bad can it be? You’re a strong, independent woman. You can handle it.” And normally, I’d agree with you. But let me paint you a picture, my dear bestie.

Imagine walking into work, where your fellow nurses are mostly men, and you’re the lone woman on the night shift. No biggie, right? I’ve handled worse. But now, add the fact that these men aren’t just your coworkers—they’re part of a correctional facility workforce that’s notoriously known for sleeping around and swapping spouses like they’re playing a game of musical chairs. Oh, and did I mention that the inmates have a knack for hearing everything? You think you’ve got privacy? Think again.

Now, enter a certain male coworker. Let’s call him Mr. Tempting. He’s good-looking, he’s charming, and he’s got that whole “I might be trouble, but I’m worth it” vibe going on. And here I am, a 30-year-old Canadian nomad, currently playing the role of the travel nurse in a correctional facility. I’ve seen a lot in my life—military life, the chaos of emergency rooms, the solitude of van life—but this, this is a new level of “What are you thinking?!”

Let’s break it down, shall we?

Problem #1: Dating Coworkers

In any job, dating a coworker comes with its own set of challenges. You see each other every day, which can be great until it’s not. When things are good, it’s like living in a rom-com. But when things go south, you’re stuck in a drama, starring you as the “Why did I ever think this was a good idea?” lead. Throw in the professional boundaries, the potential for gossip, and the awkwardness of a relationship going public, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for potential disaster.

Problem #2: Dating in a Male-Dominated Field

Now, let’s add some spice. In a male-dominated field, dating becomes a whole different beast. The dynamics are already tricky—you’ve got to navigate egos, prove yourself, and avoid being seen as anything less than a competent professional. Tossing romance into that mix? It’s like lighting a match near a gas leak. Suddenly, every glance, every conversation, every interaction is under a microscope, and you’re left wondering if people are seeing you as a colleague or as “that woman who’s dating so-and-so.”

Problem #3: Dating as the Only Female on Shift

But wait, there’s more! Being the only female on shift adds another layer of complexity. It’s like being in a fishbowl where everyone’s watching your every move. The camaraderie that exists among the men on the team is great—until you’re dating one of them. Then, suddenly, you’re not just a coworker; you’re “the girlfriend.” And trust me, that’s not a title I’m eager to take on in this environment.

Problem #4: Nosy Inmates and Rumor-Mill Correctional Officers

And now, for the pièce de résistance: the nosy inmates and the correctional officers who could rival any tabloid magazine with their gossip skills. Inmates hear everything. You can try to keep things under wraps, but within minutes, every detail of your personal life is up for discussion on the yard. As for the COs, well, let’s just say that when they’re not swapping stories about their latest romantic escapades, they’re busy speculating about everyone else’s. Dating in this environment? It’s like throwing chum into shark-infested waters.

The Verdict

So, what’s a girl to do? Mr. Tempting is looking like a five-star meal after a week of MREs, but for the reasons I’ve just shared with you, I guess I’ll starve. I mean, a little flirtation never hurt anyone, but actually dating? In this environment? Yeah… no thanks.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, bestie. Should I throw caution to the wind and dive into this potential disaster? Or should I play it safe and keep things strictly professional? Because right now, all I can think is, “Who needs the drama?” Maybe I should just stick to what I know—my books, my van, and the open road. At least they don’t come with workplace complications.

Until next time,
Your Lovelorn but Level-Headed Nomadic Nurse