Shift covered, not covered

[msannaa7711]

So, I made arrangements with a coworker to work my shift. It was arranged, manager aware, and changed in the computer. The morning of, the coworker says he cannot cover my shift for me. My manager says I have to come in or find someone else to cover. I figured once it was squared away and arranged, it wouldn't be my responsibility anymore. Shouldn't the other party have to find coverage since it was now "their shift"? Am I getting screwed?

[NICUmiiki, DNP, NP]

I think you are getting screwed, but it doesn't look like you have the policy to back you up. In my unit, once the swap form is signed and submitted, it is permanent.

[klone, MSN, RN]

In our unit, it would be the responsibility of the person who agreed to cover your shift to find coverage. Once the "shift swap" form is signed by both nurses, it's a done deal.

[JKL33]

You're only getting screwed if you allow it. I wouldn't have even entertained this conversation where they told you you're now available - that's what voicemail is for. Besides, I'm sure you're physically out of the area and couldn't get there even if you wanted to.

ETA: You actually have a big problem, I think. They only try this kind of stuff when they think they can get away with it.

[Sour Lemon]

It's not "your" shift anymore. Your coworker can't cover his OWN shift.

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

Once management approved it, it became your coworker's shift and therefore his responsibility.

Me thinks your manager is trying to take you for a ride. That being said, I'd double-check with HR or your P&P.

[Crush]

Once they agree to cover the shift and it is approved, signed for according to your management and/or policy, then it is not your responsibility. As soon as they sign the shift swapping form, it is all their shift.