need advice asap!!!

Youda · Dec 21, 2002

If the place is as bad as you've suggested, chances are good that staying jeopardized your licensed. I would definitely put things in writing, but be careful and professional in what you write to them. Something short and sweet such as you did not agree to mandatory overtime when hired, inadequate staffing, poor patient care, etc. Less than a page. Since you did not pass your probationary period, I wouldn't be too concerned about not giving notice. Staffing is their problem, not yours. It would have been nice to let them know you weren't coming back, but it really takes an idiot not to be able to figure that out when you show up for work then don't stay and work your shift.

You might also consider, though, that the calls may be because they would really like to keep you, already know their place is a disaster, and you aren't the first (or last) to leave. Yet, like most Machiavellian employers, they think a few threats "sweeten the pot" instead of trying to treat you better. If they are threatening you with calling the SBON, I figure you don't owe them a thing. If you choose to do anything at all, it would be a courtesy, not a necessity. I differ somewhat with the above comments since I've been on both sides of the fence. I hate it when people quit suddenly without giving me a chance to straighten things out first. On the other hand, a good facility wouldn't have the problems you suggest in the first place, so shouldn't be too surprised when they can't keep staff.

ianurse · Dec 22, 2002

thanks to everyone who gave advice. first, i should have mentioned that the day i left i did not take report, clock in, or even have patients assigned. i called after reading everyone's email---and oh course got voice mail. i simply left a message stating that i had rather not mention why i left (especially over voicemail) and that we did not need to discuss anything else since i didn't clock in. unfortunately, the calls have not stopped- i got one today and they refused to leave a message with my husband. i am at a loss of what to do next----i even got a call last week at around 450 in am. what do you suggest next, and if i do per chance talk with them----do you really think i owe them an explanation of anything. my name tag was turned into human resources the same day!!! also, if they try to take this to state board---i mean what can be done since i didn't clock in.

Youda · Dec 23, 2002

If the person who is calling you is a nurse (LPN or RN), I would immediately file a complaint against their license. Keep a record of when the calls came in, who the person spoke with (your husband), what was said, etc. This is "unprofessional" behavior and so it is against your state's nurse practice act. It is these folks that need to start worrying about their license, not you!

The complaint to the BON will need to be in writing, and as far as I know, a special form is not required (although most do have a form you can fill out).

It's time to get real assertive here. Their behavior and continued harrassment is unacceptable. Time to start fighting back. If you don't choose to do that, then the only other suggestion I have is to get caller-ID and don't answer the phone when they call. Eventually they'll get tired of it. But if it were me, I'd start getting mad about now. Please keep us updated!

Youda · Dec 23, 2002

By the way, to answer your question: they can take it to the state board. Anyone can file about anything, including whether or not your shoelaces were tied properly. The question is whether or not anything will come of it. If you did not clock in, did not take report, then don't worry about it. It is not abandonment until you assume responsibility for the patients (receiving report). Although many employers now days try to scare nurses into thinking otherwise. If you still have doubts, just call your State Board. They'll tell you the same thing, though.