Notice of Schedule Changes

[German1968, BSN, RN]

Advice needed. I am orienting as an RN with the VA, hired on Nightshift. I completed my NEO and NEON and started clinical orientation in June. Initially, I was scheduled 2 weeks on Dayshift for Training and then transitioned to nights. So far so good. Today I found out that I am scheduled in the evenings, starting Sunday. Supposedly the required checklist was not completed, and new Employees are required to train on all shifts. In general, that is fine with me, BUT Management failed to inform me about this and now I have less than 3 days to accommodate my private schedule and appointments. How much time in advance am I supposed to be informed about changes in my work schedule? I was not aware of this training policy, and feel that Management is at fault . Can I refuse to change work hours on such short notice? This is my first government job. All advice and Inside are greatly appreciated. TIA

[boywithacoin, BSN]

Google "Hours of Duty and Leave VA" and you should get a link to view VHA Directive 5011/3.

"c. When tours of duty must necessarily vary from the normal tour, employees will be given the opportunity of discussing their assignment and of having their views or personal problems arising in connection with such assignment considered. Tours of duty will not be changed arbitrarily and insofar as possible, employees will be given notice of any change in their work schedule at least one administrative workweek in advance. Sympathetic consideration will be extended to employees who have religious scruples against working on their Sabbath. If practicable, mutually satisfactory exchange of duty assignments may be worked out for such employees or substitute work-time may be provided to offset the time required for religious observance. Insofar as possible, work schedules should be arranged to permit employee's observance of their Sabbath on whatever day it occurs."

You should be given that one administrative workweek advance notice, but the way it's worded means that they can give you less notice than that. ?