I got a new job last week which I am very excited about. I told my agency yesterday and they were really happy for me. Said I was a definite re-hire if I wanted to return. I gave three and a half weeks notice. I told the family today and they were horrible. I told the father since the mother was at work and my agency needed them to know so they could set up times for the new nurses taking my place and he was so rude. I was upset but it was expected so I was over it pretty quickly. On my way home, the mother called me. I decided to answer, now I wish I would have gone with my gut and hit no.
For the next 20 minutes she told me how unprofessional I am being only giving two weeks notice. That as a professional I should be giving at least 6 months notice. 2-3 months if you must. She couldn't believe my agency was okay with my behavior and even made a crack at my mother's parenting skills. She implied I didn't care about her son and she learned something about me today and it wasn't a good thing. The thing that upset me the most (and it showed) was when she asked if I just abandoned my other patient too. My other patient died yesterday so this was a touchy subject. I tried half way to get off the phone but she kept talking, finally I said I have to go. I will see you Friday. I am so glad I am leaving, I am hoping I can get through the next couple of weeks without exploding.
Since when has two weeks not been enough? She said only secretaries can give two weeks. Us "professionals" need to give more.