How Do I tell my current job that I need time off for 1 month to work as a camp nurse

[careo180]

I've been working in adult med/surg for 7 months, but very much miss pediatric nursing (i worked as an aid throughout school and had my senior practicum at a Children's Hospital. I recently got offered a position at an overnight girls camp as a RN for 4 weeks. I really want to accept the job, but I need to discuss this with my current nurse manager. I currently work 32 hours a week and will need to take 4 weeks off. I don't want to use my earned time because 1. I don't have much if any and 2. I'm not going on vacation, i'm going to work. I need advice on how to ask her for this LOA. My unit is always understaffed and I feel bad leaving but this is something I really want to do. I want to work in pediatrics, not adults. Should I just quit? Or switch to per diem? What should I do if she freaks?? Thanks

[careo180]

I know this was 2 years ago, but I just wanted to let everyone know that I followed my heart. After 9 months of working full time on the adult med/surg unit I gave my notice and began working per diem and I did work at the pediatric camp for 5 weeks that summer! Then, that fall i landed a full time job in a pediatrician's office and continued to work per diem in adult med/surg to keep up my skills. A year after working in the pediatrician's office I landed an awesome job in a PICU and was a part of a nurse residency program where I have learned a ton! Always listen to your heart and follow your gut! I had no idea if I would work out when I went per diem but everything happens for a reason! I have now been a PICU nurse for over a year and am not a Certified Pediatric Nurse!!! :)