helping out or obligated

[thomas76]

Just wanted to know everyones input on this. I got a transfer on a new unit in my hospital, and my manager in my current unit wants me to help her out until they find a replacement. This will effect my orientation and timings in my new unit. Can I say no or am i obligated to help her? I really wanted to be out of that unit which is why I asked for a transfer.

[Penelope_Pitstop, BSN, RN]

I would contact HR to find out the specific policy.

I know when I did the same thing, I was under no obligation to my old department - they received more than four weeks' notice of my internal transfer.

[elppaym, BSN, MSN, RN, APRN]

If you already have your schedule for your new unit set, I would follow that. Helping out "until they find a replacement" can be indefinitely. While "helping out" is not a negative thing, the new unit that hired you hired you for a reason also, they needed that position filled.

[dishes, BSN, RN]

What are the politics of the hospital? Does the current manager have more power than the new unit manager? If so, don't rankle the one with power, cooperate, but be firm and insist that the new extended transfer date be in writing from HR.

[chare]

I agree with elppaym and dishes. You might consider discussing this with the manager on your new unit. If he or she is willing to extend your start date you might want to consider this. If this is the situation I don't see any downside, and there at least two positives. First, it demonstrates to your new manager your willingness to do what is best for the team. And second, ss you accepted a position in the same hospital, when you might find yourself once again working for your previous manager.

Best wished in whatever you decide.

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

Personally I would offer twice a month prn shifts that do not interfere with your new position. There is a difference between helping out and getting trapped into staying on full time indefinitely. You can't let your future rest in the hands of someone else's effort. Were there openings on your floor before you resigned? If so, why aren't they filled? How many of them will they want filled before you are allowed to move on? What would make your position easier to fill than the other unfilled positions? Get my drift? It could and likely would go on indefinitely.

i say agree to help out but only in a limited fashion on your own terms and in a way that doesn't jeopardize your new job. In other words, prn. You will also get OT pay that way, which will be a motivator for them to find someone to hire.