Best Way to Resign

[onedayer]

I'm really excited to be in ER, only been there 5 mos. but it is taking it's toll on me physically (I'm 49). My legs hurt all the time, and I miss my family. It seems I'm always working when they're home. I live/work in a two hospital community, one closed its ER now we're the only ER. Its a 300 bed hosp with cancer center, designated stroke center, L&D, maternity, NICU, cardiovasc. Its very busy, All the Time. I work 12h shifts, and usually with no break. I take PB&J & snacks that I can eat on the run. I have a Love/Hate relationship with my job, but I am doing very well, and already feel a bond with my co-workers.

A month ago I was offered a school nurse position. (Been a sub nurse for 5 yrs) After much thought, and coaxing from my family I want to take it. That's where I've wanted to end up my last years as a nurse. And...family first. Really want to stay per diem in ER, but afraid NM might not let me due to short stay & little experience.

I'm not sure if I should explain in a letter, or face to face. I'm afraid I won't be able to express how I feel when talking to him. Under the circumstances, is a letter inappropriate?

Thank You in advance

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

I would make an appointment and have discussion with the NM first. "After much consideration, I can no longer work full time in this setting. I really enjoy the work, I find my co-workers the best of the best, but I can not tolerate 12 hour shifts or full time. I am just letting you know that I am putting in my resignation letter, but would be interested in perhaps per diem. Thank you for everything you have done for me, however, this is the best thing for myself and my family." Then hand in your letter.

Be sure that you have in hand a hire letter from the school. Give as much notice as you can. If you are going to stay per diem, make sure you don't over-extend yourself. One weekend a month may be all you can do. So be sure you know what the per diem requirements are.

I wouldn't say anything about your new job. No need to know. Just keep it factual in what you stated here--12 hours, full time and no time for your family are the main reasons for your resignation.

Best wishes!!

[VANurse2010]

This is probably going to be an unpopular opinion, but I think given your experience or lack thereof in the ED I think it would be kind of tacky to ask to go PT or PRN.

[onedayer]

Great advice...that was another question I had - should I mention new job?

Thanks

[onedayer]

Well that was my question....I have been at this facility for 2 years in Med/Surg, maybe it would be more appropriate to apply to med/surg per diem, and hope that he'll offer it - but I am doubtful.

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

It's the right thing to do, to tell the boss, as well as submit a letter. HR will require a letter anyway.

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

This is probably going to be an unpopular opinion, but I think given your experience or lack thereof in the ED I think it would be kind of tacky to ask to go PT or PRN.

I agree. The manager may let you do part time or per diem if you were an experienced ER nurse, but probably not after just five months.

[BSNbeauty, BSN, RN]

Do you want/need a PRN job? If so, you'd be better off asking for the PRN medsurg position. I agree that most likely they wouldn't keep you on board as PRN with 5 months of exp. unless they are desperate.