I'm a recent new grad. I had several interviews and was offered positions in all of them. I chose a particular specialty area that I love and I was so excited for the opportunity to be a part of this unit. During my interview I was told that I was required to work at least 1 weekend shift a pay period, which was no problem. As a new grad I prepared myself to work some weekends and most holidays.
I was told after orientation that I would have 3 months with a preceptor. Then I was told that my preceptor only works weekends. I asked if there was any way to change this and my educator flat out said no and then she said, we'll talk later.†I did not get the chance to talk to her last week, but I really need to speak with her about my schedule next week. I just don't know how to go about doing it.
I went through the pros of this and the only one I could find or that anyone brought up is that I get more money. Unfortunately that's not enough for me. Working weekends only, for 3 months means that I would not get to see my family or my boyfriend for 3 months, as everyone works during the week and live in different cities. I do not mind working weekend shifts or if I'm even scheduled an entire weekend. I'm just conflicted about every weekend for 3 months.
I feel lost because I turned down a lot of positions for this one and I really want to be here. However, my family is my support system. They are my stress relief and I'm worried that with my history of depression I won't do well. If I would have known this information I probably would have accepted a different position, especially since I seem to be the only one that has this particular schedule (there are quite a few of us new grads on the unit).
Has anyone else had scheduling difficulty like this and how did you handle it? How should I approach my educator? She's actually difficult to even find because she is very busy and I haven't really gotten to sit down with her to discuss anything. I would appreciate any advice.
Nurse SMS, MSN, RN
6,843 Posts
I am very curious about what the OP did