I feel like a jerk!

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I am a new graduate RN and I also have a LVN license. After job hunting for 4 months, I accepted a job working at a brand new weight loss clinic as a LVN. The owner chose me because I was "responsible, reliable, and dependable". BUT, its only 27 hours a week and is only paying me $14.50 and no benefits. I was desperate for a job, so I accepted it. The hitch is that I am the only nurse in their clinic, and without a nurse, they cannot open/operate.

My husband lost his job this weekend, so I went out job searching for something better today and was offered a position in LTC... 40+ hours, paying $24.50+ overtime.

Obviously, I am going to take the new position.... my family is depending on my income! But now I have to tell the clinic that I am quitting after just two weeks!! Since they cannot open without a nurse, I am going to give them 2 weeks notice so they can find a replacement.

I just feel like such a jerk, and I dont know what to say in my resignation letter. ..... Help!

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Business is business.

Just tell them that you aren't able to continue to work for them because of unseen circumstances but you are going to give them 2 weeks in advance.

Don't worry about what they are going to think about in this situation. Just do the right thing and go about your business.

Whatever happens is THEIR problem NOT yours. :twocents:

Was that to harsh?

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You aren't required to give any explanation in a resignation letter. It needs to consist of only one sentence where you state that you regret that you need to resign and are giving two weeks notice. If you feel like it, you could also say that you apologize for any inconvenience. That's it.

You shouldn't feel bad. You need to take care of your family. Anyone who doesn't understand that is the jerk.

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

I think the first employer took advantage of your situation. That's not nice. Don't feel too bad.

I would simply tell the truth. Say that your husband lost his job and you can no longer afford to work for such little money. You can't support your family on what you would be making at the first job. Any decent person would understand that. They won't be thrilled to lose you, but the should understand. If they don't, they are the jerks.

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I think the first employer took advantage of your situation. That's not nice. Don't feel too bad.

I would simply tell the truth. Say that your husband lost his job and you can no longer afford to work for such little money. You can't support your family on what you would be making at the first job. Any decent person would understand that. They won't be thrilled to lose you, but the should understand. If they don't, they are the jerks.

The same thing crossed my mind too. I still say that you don't need to provide any explanation, but if you feel compelled to do so, the one stated above is ample enough.

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Specializes in Respiratory, Med/Surg.

I agree. As long as you handle it professionally and give addequate notice, than you've done everything you should. It is an unavoidable situation. Your family should take priority.

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Specializes in ER, IICU, PCU, PACU, EMS.

As Awright stated, "Business is business". I'm sure if the tables were turned, they would have no problem letting you go.

If their whole operation is based upon you working for them...well, you have a unique opportunity to negotiate!

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Specializes in Critical Care.

There are plenty of nurses our there looking for a job. I don't think it will take them 2 weeks to find someone to replace you. Don't feel bad, they will understand that they are not paying much, little hours, and no benefits. They can't expect to keep anyone for long.

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Specializes in TELEMETRY.

I agree with all the posts.... If the tables were turned they wouldn't bat an eye letting you go. You need to do what best for you and your family. Good luck!

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Specializes in MR/DD.

I am sure there are plenty of people looking for a nurses position, if you know anyone, refer them

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Specializes in Peds/outpatient FP,derm,allergy/private duty.

I don't think you owe them more than the standard two-weeks notice. They very carefully figured out how little they could pay you and have you accept the job. In other words, they were looking out for themselves. It it to your credit that you think about the impact your actions have on others, though! Best wishes in your new job!

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With the economy the way it is, I'm sure they will have no problem finding someone to fill the position. You are doing the ethical thing by giving 2 weeks notice, so i would not worry about it too much.

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