Moving away - is it ok to give coworkers a moving away gift?

[1Jessie86]

I had a hard time as a new nurse and am very appreciative of the staff that were patient with me. Is it ok to give a couple of movie tickets/gift cards to these specific staff members (techs I worked well with, my preceptors, managers...)? I would so like to thank the people who have taken the time to write me a letter of recommendation. I'm moving out of the state is it ok to thank these people buy purchasing a small gift card/movie tickets? Opinions?

[Shagce1]

I think so. A sincere note expressing your gratitude along with it would be nice too. I wouldn't make a big public display of giving the gifts though since not everyone is getting something. Maybe break room treats for everyone in addition to the personal gifts.

[blondy2061h, MSN, RN]

Yes, this is okay, and thoughtful. Make sure the gifts are fairly generic, given after letters of recommendation are written so that they can in no way be construed as a bribe, and given in subtlety so as not to upset excluded people. It would also be nice to do something like a tray of cookies and a good bye note to the unit as a whole.

[xoemmylouox, ASN, RN]

There is nothing wrong with a small thank you gift. Include a short thank you note. I agree it would be nice to make cookies or something for the unit as a whole. Good luck on the move!

[vampiregirl, BSN, RN]

It's awesome that you are taking the time to acknowledge those that have provided support as you've started your nursing career! I'll bet that even a hand-written note would be greatly appreciated.

I keep the encouraging and thank you notes (even a few just jotted on scraps of paper) that I've received from co-workers and patients through my years in healthcare in a little box. There's been a few times when I've questioned why I've chosen healthcare/ nursing; I pull them out and read them to remind myself. I will tell you that for me the notes mean more to me that a small gift.

Good luck in your nursing career!

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

A gift from the heart is very sweet. :) I sent my MSN preceptor an Amazon giftcard after I finished my capstone course.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

It is perfectly acceptable to give going-away gifts to coworkers. However, if it were me, I'd lean toward providing donuts, pastries or lunch for the entire unit rather than individual gifts. I'd also give each person a greeting card to convey my gratitude.