Expecting a tough question

[lkhrn]

I will be interviewing soon for a GN position and want to be prepared to field a question that may come up based on my history. Earlier this year I started a GN program - but withdrew to care for my terminally ill mother. At the time of my withdrawal, I had been 9 weeks into the program and was having a tough time with my preceptor(authoritative style v. I do better with a nurturer), time management, & made a couple of med errors (horrifying but I learned from them). The stress all around was taking a toll - and though leaving to care for my mother was paramount - I was glad to leave because I was not flourishing in that environment. I learned a lot there but it was time to go for all the reasons stated. The manager was very kind - but there was no offer to come back to them when my personal situation resolved. If I am asked in an interview "why didn't you go back to where you were" - how do I respond? Also - if the application asks if they can call my former manager - I am not sure what she would say so I am hesitant to give the OK to contact her - but won't that raise a big red flag? My path has been smooth & straightforward in life until this - so I welcome your input. Thanks.

[Pangea Reunited, ASN, RN]

I wouldn't mention any conflict with a preceptor or medication errors. I'd gloss over that by saying that I was not at my personal best due to my preoccupation with my mother's health and the strain of being her care-giver. I'd also express the desire for a new beginning if asked why I didn't return.

I can't see how declining to allow them to contact the previous employer would benefit you. I'd probably OK it and hope for the best.

Good luck!

[lkhrn]

Thank you for your input. Would love to hear from others too.

[Dogen]

I agree... I think if asked just say your mother needed full-time caregiving and there was no one else to do it. I also like saying that you wanted to a fresh start somewhere new, so you can put your best foot forward.

Most hospitals these days don't give out a lot of information when called for a "reference." They typically verify that you were employed, the date you started, date ended, and whether you were let go or resigned. A lot of times it's not even the nurse manager, but someone in HR, who gives them the information. Utterly worthless as a reference, but useful in your situation. Plus, asking them not to call would be a big red flag.

Just make sure you really did learn from those med errors. Slow down. Speed comes with time and practice, but safety is something you have to intentionally build into your practice by doing things right even if it takes more time.

[OCNRN63, RN]

I agree that your best answer is to say you wanted a fresh start after your mother's death, and just leave it at that.

I'm very sorry for the loss of your Mom.