How do I quit my CNA job after the first day?

Nursing Students CNA/MA

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Ok, so I recently graduated from a CNA program, and I passed my state exam in the 5th of June. I began putting in applications Immediately. After putting in an application in a SNF of a some-what nearby town (in the error of desperation of getting a job already) I got a call for an interview within 2 hours. The next day I had the interview, and I was hired. At that moment we agreed on the pay being at least 12.00 the hour because it is an hour drive to that town. I just began yesterday (orientation day) and after we planned the schedule the DON tells me my pay was actually going to be 10.75! With a .30 cent increase if it's Pm shift or .60 cents if it's nocturnal. I agreed, because I have a son and family I have to support, and I really need the job. After my hour drive of disappointment back home I got a call from the SNF where I trained with a job offering. I went to speak with the DON today and she offered me the position, it's in my town and the pay is 15.25 the hour. This is an opportunity I cannot let pass me by. So now I will have to quit the other job. How do I let the DON know that I am thankful for her opportunity and consideration but that I must take this other job? I know it's extremely unprofessional, and I can't work both jobs because they are both full time PM shift jobs. Also, I go to school in the mornings.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

I would say after considering the change in pay rate, I'm going to have to withdraw acceptance of the job. I appreciate the offer but after reviewing the difference between what I was originally told to expect and what you now inform me is the pay rate plus the commute is a significant difference

(After accepting the second offer)

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Thank you! I just feel really bad about having to quit after the first day. Also, I have another problem, the DON is having vacations until Tuesday which is the day I'm supposed to start. Who is the next person which I should let know about no longer being interested in the job?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Human resources

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Specializes in Post Acute, Med/Surg, ED, Nurse Manager.

Dont feel bad about quitting they didn't uphold their end of the negotiation. If nessicary just be honest. I was offered a job for more money and since you are unable to offer me the wage discussed I have taken the other offer. Thank them for their time, be polite and move on!

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Also, I have another problem, the DON is having vacations until Tuesday which is the day I'm supposed to start. Who is the next person which I should let know about no longer being interested in the job?

Ask who is covering for the DON in her/his absence -- someone is. Also, HR, as JustBeachy noted. Make sure they understand clearly that you're resigning.

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I found myself in a very similar situation.

I was not even officially offered the job at facility #1, I had an interview and one day they called me to tell me that my background check had cleared and when could I start?

Luckily, they had only left a message. That same day, facility #2 had called and offered me more money, it's in my town instead of a 20 minute drive like facility #1, and the hours were more what I was looking for.

I simply accepted job #2, then called job #1 and told them that I apologized for any confusion, but I have already accepted an offer and I appreciated their interest. That was that.

They were very understanding. CNA turnover is very high.

Good luck!

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Specializes in HH, Peds, Rehab, Clinical.

Contact HR and be honest. You've accepted a position closer to home for a higher rate of pay. You accepted their offer based on the initial rate of pay and once they changed their mind, you had to change your mind too. MAYBE they will think twice before doing the same thing to someone else

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I called when I initially made the post and was told the DON was in vacations. So I proceeded to leave a voicemail. I contacted HR the next day to speak to them about the situation, and she tells me "what are you taking about? She's not on vacations she's at her desk. Let me get her for you." When the DON was put on the phone you could hear anger in her voice. I told her I was making sure she got the voicemail I left her and she rudely cuts me off and angrily tell me"yes, I did and I didn't see a need to call you back". I'm a little surprised at this point because every other time I spoke to her, her attitude was really different. So I continue explaining to her that I was making sure she was aware of the situation to which she responds"yes I am" and then SHE HANGS UP ON ME!

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Specializes in ER/Tele, Med-Surg, Faculty, Urgent Care.

Just to make sure I want to suggest you follow up with a written letter one to the director & one to human resources, in fact send it with signature required/confirmation so that you are not black balled/as not eligible for rehire but I'm also thinking it may not be an issued.

So you have learned like many of us to get the salary in writing. Good luck in school.

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It sounds like you made the right choice in resigning. The DON did not reply or conduct herself in a very professional manner. As many indicated, you need to get salary information in writing next time. While resigning put them in a bind, they obviously need to streamline their communication and hiring process.

If this happens to you again, it is not necessary for you to explain why you are resigning; all they need to know is that you are resigning and thank them for offering you the job. Submit it in writing as verbal resignations cannot always be confirmed, and send a copy to HR and the DON or unit manager.

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Specializes in HH, Peds, Rehab, Clinical.

Well I think that latest interaction cements that you made the right decision. Sounds like she's pizzed that you didn't fall for what is probably a long standing mo of hers that usually works on new hires

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