Immediate advice needed. PLEASE HELP

[FutureNurseGirl]

Hey everyone,

I need some urgent advice. I recently reached out to a skilled nursing facility, had an interview, and had orientation today. Unfortunately, the pay and what they expected of me as a RA was not exactly what I expected, especially with no nurses on floor during graveyard shift. It made me feel very overwhelmed and uncomfortable. Before they spend resources on training me, I would like to politely decline the job. It feels so awkward though. I am not sure how I can decline the position. Any advice on how I can politely decline the position without coming off as unprofessional and possibly burning bridges? Again, I feel terrible for declining, but I feel like if I wait, something better will come along especially when I get my certification soon.

[tanwonsaur]

Hey there!

I can completely understand that you're feeling overwhelmed, but it sounds like you're already an employee at this facility. I would recommend, instead of quitting because you are overwhelmed, talk to management and see what they can do to help you. What changes can they make? Would they be willing to hire more people to make the load less heavy?

Work with the organization to find out how to help it grow and how to help others avoid this situation. Plus, showing early interest and leadership skills like this look very attractive to employers!

Best of luck, keep us posted!

[tinybbynurse]

I wholly agree with littlemiss BSN.

Sounds like you are NOT a current employee. Not worth sticking around somewhere that is not even paying what you need to get by. Obviously, we all want to love our jobs, and pay isn't always the only factor, BUT, pay definitely IS a factor when it comes to a job!! And especially if you don't feel comfortable. There is nothing wrong with withdrawing now. I would sent an email. If doing so gives you a big sigh of relief, then go for it.

You'll be happy about your choice when something better comes along.

[Ambersmom, BSN, RN]

I didn't have any training at all as of yet. Today is essentially the day they had a run through of their policies and went over the responsibilities of the job and the likes which a lot was not made known at the interview. So this is why I have come to the conclusion that I am not a good fit for the job and vice versa. Would you recommend that I send an email thanking them for an opportunity or how would you go about the situation now if you were in my shoes?

I would talk to them in person, just state the facts that when you accepted the position you didn't understand all it involved and you don't think it would be a good fit for you. I've been in several orientations where people went to a day or two of orientation and discovered it wasn't what they expected and quit. But do the facility the courtesy of being an adult and having a conversation with them, they'll understand.

[retiredmednurse]

If you are an employee, check your nursing policy regarding this. My hospital allowed one to quit any time during orientation without a negative statement for your HR file. But if you do quit, let them know. There was one nurse on orientation who quit without saying anything while on her lunch break-she simply never came back to the unit. In this situation, one can be sued for abandonment of your patients-a very serious charge. As previous comments had mentioned, just check with your boss. It is also in their best interest to have you leave on a good note.

[kbrn2002, ADN, RN]

I too am confused about what an RA is. Even more confused by a SNF that doesn't have a licensed nurse in the building. Are you sure it's a SNF and not an assisted living?