I just wanted to post this as it has me a bit shaken. I went to work Monday and found that all of the LPNs and some of the ancillary staff in the hospital where I work were laid off. It came as a big surprise to the LPNs - and to all of us. No one knew it was coming.
The hospital census has been down over the past year. Our yearly raises have been "postponed" until Spring, 2011, there have been staff cuts in several departments, including phlebotomy (sometimes 1 for a 16 floor hospital), lab and transport. A year ago, the retirement program was stopped. In addition, there is a hiring freeze in place.
I do not think I am amiss in quoting Hamlet, in that "something is rotten in the state of Denmark" - ominous.
Any thoughts? I have three job offers on the table, but I've been at this current place for three years and do not want to make an impulsive move without analyzing this current situation - and that included input from seasoned nurses that have seen more than I have at this point.
