I need to get back to PACU!!!

[Sugamama]

Alright; so, I know I've said this before but I MUST GET BACK TO PACU!! I just need some advice (maybe just some amping up...I'm not exactly sure.) I was a PACU RN for 2.5 years before changing over to the ICU for 6 months before moving across the country to be with my military man and now I have been working nights in ICU for two and a half months here. I left PACU just to gain experience for CRNA school; something I thought I wanted to do and have since decided to forego. I have been trying to 'stick it out' because I'm just going to end up having to move again in about a year from now (gotta love the Army!); but, I just can't stand it anymore! My dilemma is this: there are two full-time PACU positions available at the hospital in which I currently work. I desperately want to apply; but, the employee handbook states that they "recommend spending at least one year in your hired position before requesting transfer to another unit." I can't apply without my Manager finding out and I'm, honestly, a total wuss; not to mention I'm afraid of the wrath that may be afflicted upon me should other members of the ICU team find out what I'm up to. What should I do?! Oh, I think it's also important to note that I applied for a PACU position at a neighboring (competing) hospital over a week ago and haven't heard anything back from them (and they have since removed the job posting from their website.) Any thoughts??

[GHGoonette, BSN, RN]

Honesty still remains the best policy. As an experienced PACU nurse working at the same hospital it shouldn't be a problem; you're just moving sideways. Request a private meeting with your UM and put your cards on the table. It's more fair to her if she knows you're looking for a way out, and you may be able to negotiate to stay for as long as it takes to find a replacement before moving to PACU.

I wouldn't worry too much about the 6 months; you are experienced in both areas, so it's not as if you're a newbie still being orientated. If I was in your UM's shoes, I would rather look for someone whose heart is in their work, and let you move to where your true passion lies.

I wouldn't hold out too much hope for the post you applied for; it sounds as if they might have filled it, but you might want to contact their HR department to make sure.

[RN1980]

i think you are worrying too much about other things...call the pacu manager stat!

[Sugamama]

Thanks for the advice! I spoke to my manager and she seemed to understand where I was coming from; she even spoke to the PACU manager on my behalf! I am now counting down the number of shifts until I transfer to PACU...CAN'T WAIT!!!!!!!