Members are discussing a situation where a tech working in a busy medical-surgical telemetry unit walked out after being the only staff member for 24 patients. There is debate over whether this constitutes job abandonment and if it could lead to losing a CNA license. Some members suggest that the situation could be considered patient abandonment, while others emphasize the importance of communication with management in such cases. Additionally, there is discussion about the licensing requirements for CNAs in different states.
I work in med-surg telemetry with 24 patients. Usually the floor is staffed with 4 nurses and 2 tech. Our unit is super busy considering that we are on surgical floor. On top of that we had 400 lbs patient who required 6 -7 people to turn for dressing change.
I was working on my third day when we were short staffed. The minute I found out I was the only tech for 24 pt I walked out and stated that I was quitting.
First, I was worried for my safety. Am I going to function well knowing that I have 24 patients? This is also not the first time this has happened. Not sure how they pass with the Joint Commission.
My manager told me I could lose my CNA license for job abandonment. Is this true?
That's a tough one. I was once asked if I would do a double at my job. 3 hours in my first shift I changed my mind. I gave them five hours until my shift was over but they still couldn't find anybody. I uped and left. I don't think it was job abandonment in my case since my shift was already over and I gave them ample time to find my replacement AND told them I was not going to do the assignment.
But if you clocked in and then proceed to leave then I think its job abandonment.
Like others have stated, if you signed/clocked in, it can be considered patient abandonment. In these cases, it is best to do your shift and then simply quit afterwards.
Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
newboy said:
CNAs have a license?
CNAs are licensed in some states and merely certified in other states. In New Hampshire, CNAs maintain occupational licensure and are referred to as licensed nursing assistants (LNAs).
For what u explain no!!....bear in mind only 1% of licences get taken away each year. So it has to be something really BAD for u to lose your license.
Which this doesn't seem to be...
A CNA uses a hoyer lift by herself and the resident fell and broke her ankle ..she got reported ..she didn't have her license taken away.
strawberryluv, BSN, RN
768 Posts
That's a tough one. I was once asked if I would do a double at my job. 3 hours in my first shift I changed my mind. I gave them five hours until my shift was over but they still couldn't find anybody. I uped and left. I don't think it was job abandonment in my case since my shift was already over and I gave them ample time to find my replacement AND told them I was not going to do the assignment.
But if you clocked in and then proceed to leave then I think its job abandonment.