Reservists with Civilian RN jobs

Specialties Government

Published

Specializes in Oncology.

Hey everyone,

I have a question for those of you in the reserves who also work as a civilian nurse (mostly curious about inpatient positions requiring weekend work).

I just came off active duty and have started drilling as a reservist (enlisted) so I'm still getting the hang of the whole reserve thing. This September I'm starting a 15 month BSN program and I'm just wondering how it works for those of you currently balancing hospital work and drilling obligations, especially AT?

I am interested in mobilization opportunities and C schools once I'm finished with nursing school and, if I'm lucky enough to get hired right away, once I'm finished with orientation, but I'm not sure how well hospitals take to a nurse being gone for an extended period of time for mobs, etc.

Probably getting a little bit ahead of myself right now but I'm just curious how flexible inpatient jobs are with reservists. If anyone has any insight into this it would be greatly appreciated! Thanks :)

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Look at USERRA, this is covered by Federal law: Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve > USERRA > What is USERRA

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Specializes in ER, ICU.

It's easy, you tell your employer when you are on orders or have drill, and they suck it up. They are also not allowed to make you use vacation time, or make up the shifts. That said, you should go out of your way to not only be an excellent employee, but give them as much notice as possible. Be sure to stress how the skills you learn will benefit them as well.

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Specializes in Oncology.

Thanks for the responses! I'm still getting used to the reserves and how different it is from active duty but this helps :)

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