Gripe, question...need advice...

Sylv · Jul 22, 2006

What is a unit coordinator? Is that a non nursing position?

I think I wouldn't mention it unless the new nurse manager mentioned it to me.

I would show by my actions how reliable I could be and make sure I didn't call out (if at all possible, I don't know what your personal situation is), and maybe work extra to help her out, if possible.

I don't think that email sounds that bad, she did say it was due to extenuating circumstances and not a habitual problem.

Good luck!

nursewho · Jul 22, 2006

Thanks for the positive spin...I'm just so angry and frustrated right now...

A unit coordinator is a unit secretary--ancillary, non-clinical staff.

R

SilentfadesRPA · Jul 22, 2006

can she do that?

i do not know if legally she can do that but obviously she thinks she can and at least she had the integrity to cc you.

and how do i do damage control, now that i will be deemed unreliable by my new nm. i have not had a problem with attendence in the 4 years i have worked here, never been counseled before. just something that came up from time to time in the past few months, not an ongoing thing, and i do not expect any further absences due to it.

i would write a memo to your new supervisor (not cc the former as she is former) stating exactly what you said

1) you are professional and reliable demonstrated by your history of never missing work in the prior four years of service

2) that you have never had a previous counseling session

3) if possible and you feel you are able i would mention the reason why you were out for that amount of time.

4) finalize it as you do not expect to be out again

i would not mention that you were not aware of policy that greater than three days out was excessive.

i also do not think necessarily that you are on shaky ground i just think you have to do your very best and not be out unless you ablsolutely have to. i also think your former manager is a passive agressive person and one that your better off working without. i have to wonder if she is angry that your moving on up and leaving her behind.

the best of luck to you.

marc

Altra, BSN, RN · Jul 22, 2006

Since your new position is with the same employer, I don't think it was inappropriate. Your absences still "count" for the year even though they were during your time in the old department.

I understand your embarassment at having this glaringly pointed out to your new manager. But if circumstances cause you miss a few more days work ... your total absences might then fall into the category for whatever progressive corrective action your facility utilizes. As unpleasant as it is, it is appropriate that your new manager is aware of this.

Here's hoping your new work schedule fits well into your life as a whole - something that can be a challenge for anyone! :)

mydesygn · Jul 22, 2006

I am a new grad starting f/t med-surg job in two weeks. I am currently a unit coordinator at the same hospital where I will be working as an rn. Here's my problem...I was recently counseled by my immediate supervisor for having four absences w/ in 5 months, considered "excessive" by hospital policy...okay, fine...I was not aware that I had exceeded this parameter, but she states this is "just a heads up", doesn't go anywhere, not even hr, but if my new nurse manager asks about any absences, she will have to tell her...okay, fine.
This morning I have an email cc'd to me from my supervisor to my new nm, telling her that I have been counseled due to excessive absences, and that she felt "obligated" to let her know...she did mention that it was due to extenuating circumstances, and not a habitual problem.
Now what?? Can she do that? And how do I do damage control, now that I will be deemed unreliable by my new nm. I have not had a problem with attendence in the 4 years I have worked here, never been counseled before. Just something that came up from time to time in the past few months, not an ongoing thing, and I do not expect any further absences due to it.
I want to make a good impression on my new nm, I am professional, reliable, hardworking, and ready to start my nursing career, but am already on shaky footing. Any advice?
R

It was not inappropiate since your transfer to a new position is within the same organization, your abscences are cumulative. Just be careful about any further abscences. If you feel you may have issues that will cause you to miss work, Please go to your nurse manager and discuss the issues with her, often an LOA or FMLA may be necessary not to lose your job. Attendance is policy dictated. You should read and know your facility attendance policy. Typically when you transfer positions, your previous supervisor will discuss any written disciplinary actions you have. I don't generally discuss any issues beyond that but I will inform the manager if you have any written warnings on file.