Beggars can't be choosers...when enough is enough?

[wootnurse]

Hi there! I'm a newer grad RN. It is VERY difficult to find a job as a new grad in my state. So, I took a job at a SNF. I don't mind geriatrics, I thinks it's fun, I love the residents.

However, the SNF I work at is very poorly staffed. We are short all the time due to lots of people quitting. The reason this is happening is because all our paychecks are bouncing, or we are getting paid about 3 days later than scheduled. I'm pretty sure the facility is bankrupt.

I get paid pretty low on the pay grade as an RN, even for a new grad. I work all shifts (am, pm, noc) and in all areas. My other co-workers only work one type of shift in one specific area. I'm assuming I'm a float nurse because they need a nurse desperately. I also take on 30 residents, doing all their meds, treatments, admissions, discharges. It always crazy busy.

I had an idea that the facility was doing poorly financially, but I didn't know it was this bad before I became employed. I took the job because I couldn't find any acute care or anything else really.

So what I'm getting at....when is enough, well, enough? Any advice helps. Thanks!

[manique]

Have u ever thought bout jus working in a doctors office? I knw u probably wanna be in a hospital. But I rather work in a doc office, Mon-Friday, maybe a Saturday a month. And having nice benefits w vaca.

[llg, PhD, RN]

You should be staying at your current job -- while looking for another. I agree with you. It sounds as if there are SEVERE financial problems at your current job. Apply wherever you would like for work. You might get lucky and land a wonderful job.

I would also recommend you apply at other SNF's or similar facilities working with geriatric patients. You say you like that population and that is where many jobs will be in the future. If you specialize in geriatrics, get certified, additional education, etc., you might be able to carve out a great career for yourself. Given the aging of society, etc. there will be opportunities for geriatrics specialists in the future and you have the opportunity to get that "ground floor experience" now (and you don't seem to hate the work, you just need to find a stable employer.)

When asked about why you are looking for a new job, you can honestly say something like ... "I like working with this population, hope to specialize in geriatrics, etc. ... I get along with my co-workers and the management, etc. ... but several of my paychecks have bounced and I need to find a job with an employer who is financially stable." No one would hold that against you.

Good luck!

[wootnurse]

Thanks guys,

I got a better job after all! Thanks for the kind words.