People attitudes towards withdrawing from a residency program

[moirnurse]

I'm currently an accelerated BSN student that is about to graduate this Summer. I have no ties to my cities and would even proceed with the steps necessary to take my NCLEX at a state that offered me an early acceptance to a fall residency.

My question revolves around the lack of knowledge about residency contracts. Given the uncertainty this pandemic brings, I have started applying to residencies that have opened applications. What I'm learning is each hospital has their own application timeline and start date.

So what if you seize an early opportunity for a residency only to also get accepted for another that was a better fit for you? Can anyone share experiences they have about being accepted to a residency but inevitably withdrawing from it? (I understand this would not be in good taste. And something that individuals should abstain from doing.)

But for those more unique situations, are there normally stipulations in contracts new grads sign that prohibit them from withdrawing after accepting the job?

Thank you! Stay safe out there!

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

Generally your contract does not start until your first day of work. Therefore if you accept another position, if it is before your start date, you won't be held to the standards of having violated it. After that, yes, you will likely have to repay it.

Be sure to look at the terms of the contract carefully. We have our new grads sign their contracts one week before the start date.

[pinkdoves, BSN]

The first year after my licensure was a ***! I took a position at one of the best hospitals in the country and was admitted into their new grad program. it was not properly staffed and my mental health was deteriorating so I quit 2 months in. When I got another inpatient job I was automatically put in residency again because they knew I was an RN for such a short time at my first job.