Which job should I take?

[Emmers4]

Hi Everyone!

So I am going to be a new graduate nurse in a few weeks, and have been searching for jobs these past few months. About a month ago I had an interview at a hospital for a medical position. They are offering great pay and benefits, but I am not super excited about the floor as there are a lot of detoxing patients there. I went ahead and accepted a position there, although I didn't get great vibes from the HR people and my manager. I .outlying accepted this because it is a job.

Even though I had accepted the position, a hospital that I really like called and asked for an interview with me. I interviewed yesterday and absolutely loved it. I got along with the manager super well and they're offering me a spot on their cardiac floor, which I ultimately really want. They're also offering me evenings, which is crazy as a new grad, and a much better orientation process! It also is far closer to home, and pay is still very decent.

My question is, can I tell the first hospital that I'm going to go a different direction and take the second position? I dont want to go back on my word, although no paper work or anything has been signed and I still wouldn't start for 2 months. Is this incredibly unprofessional? Also, any thoughts on a new grad on a cardiac floor vs a medical floor with lots of detoxers? I've heard they can be incredibly difficult...

Thank you for your thoughts!

[Penelope_Pitstop, BSN, RN]

You wouldn't start for two months? You're fine to reneg on the original job offer - just do it as soon as you can.

PS - Cardiac patients have DTs and that sort of thing, too - you are going to have some experience with detox in any setting, honestly.

[Scottishtape]

If you haven't signed a contract, I would let the first hospital know you've accepted another offer that works better for your family.

Thank them for their offer, let them know you think they're a great facility and you'll pass along their info to your nurse friends who are looking for positions.

That way, you don't burn a bridge.

Congratulations, and good luck!

[Emmers4]

Thank you very much, I appreciate your thoughts!!