How should I ask my manager...?

Nurses General Nursing

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I"m a new grad and have been orientation for about 4 months now. I was hired to do night shift but was trained during day shift. It's almost time for me now to make that transition and maybe start training on nights for a week or two. However, just yesterday, one of the RNs from day... told everyone that she found a new RN job and will be moving soon.

I would like to stay on day shift... if possible at all... How do I ask my manager? I don't want to sound like I should be able to or privileged to... I just don't want to come off wrong. I know maybe some night RNs may want the day position too...

Is it too much to ask for or too early? Should I not ask? I think I should wait for awhile to ask my nurse manager... since the RN just kinda let the word out just yesterday. She won't be leaving for like another month.

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Specializes in Oncology, radiology, ICU.

Where I used to work when a day shift opened up it was offered to the people on night shift first and went by seniority. If none of them were interested then it was posted for everyone. I'm not sure how your floor works and I don't think it would hurt to ask your manager about it and see what they say.

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Specializes in Hospice.

Can't hurt to make your wishes known, as long as you acknowledge that others may have have been waiting longer and have earned the opportunity to go first.

It's all about attitude ... if it appears like you're trying to "jump the line" you could get flack either from staff or from your manager. But you can't get what you want if you never ask.

Perhaps a note or an email expressing your interest in moving to days and asking to be "put on the list" as openings come available.

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Specializes in ED, OR, SAF, Corrections.

I don't see why you can't ask - the worst thing that could happen is your NM saying no. I see no reason why you can't just say that you've heard a day spot is opening up and that while you realize you're the new person and as such at the bottom of the totem in terms of seniority, that you'd appreciate it if she kept you in mind in the event no one else wants the shift.

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I agree with Heron - I was just in the exact situation, but before I talked to the manager I heard that 3 other night shifters wanted it, so I never made my wishes known. I think as long as you acknowledge that other may have seniority and it is only a request, its okay to do.

I dreaded moving to nights - but I actaully love it, and I'm glad things worked out the way the did!

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Specializes in Trauma Surgery, Nursing Management.

OP, you have gotten some good advice here. You should ABSOLUTELY let your NM know that you would like to put your name on the list for a day shift as soon as the opportunity arises. She will then tell you whether or not you have people ahead of you, or she will give it to you. It never hurts to be proactive in your requests.

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Specializes in psych, addictions, hospice, education.

...however, if the other nurse hasn't told the manager yet, that she's going to leave (it was unclear to me if she told everyone or everyone but the manager), don't tell the manager for her!

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Simply tell your manager that if there are ever any openings on the day shift, you would like to be considered. That lets her know of your interest without letting the cat out of the bag if the other nurse hasn't actually handed in her notice.

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"Hey, I know I'm new, but I heard that Sally was leaving. I just wanted to let you know if no one else is interested in the day position, I would be willing to switch."

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Specializes in Home health was tops, 2nd was L&D.

Simply let NM know that you are interested in day shift if any openings come up that you would qualify for. That way if there is a list you can be put on it.. But I agree do not give up on nights till you have tried it..Lots of reasons nights is great if your body can take it.

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Specializes in MSP, Informatics.

Go to HR. ask for a bid slip or whatever they use. Never assume you are low seniority and therefor out of the running. I have seen people do that, and not bother bidding something because they thought a zillion others would jump on it, and no one did--and the job went unfilled and they filled from the outside!

Don't make a stink over it. if you are union hospital, it doesn't do any good, or hurt to say something to your manager. If jobs are by seniority only, then bid it and maybe per chance no one else bid it.

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Simply tell your manager that if there are ever any openings on the day shift, you would like to be considered. That lets her know of your interest without letting the cat out of the bag if the other nurse hasn't actually handed in her notice.

I recently did exactly this....and Im now in my new position. Lesson - make your wishes known!;)

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