Personal nursing dilemma

[Brittany0604]

Hi all!

I have a dilemma that I was hoping to get some advice on. Right now I have been working as a nurse at a city hospital for 5 months. I accepted this job because I was afraid I wouldn't find another one before my student loan payments start coming in. I now have an interview with my dream job this week at a nationally renowned hospital.

Bottom line, if I get offered this position, how would you suggest I go about telling my nurse manager and clinical manager? I already know I have to give three weeks notice. I can only imagine they would be really mad, but this job is the kind of job that I became a nurse for.

Thank you!

[MunoRN, RN]

I've worked at both a 'Nationally renowned' hospital, as well as an urban public hospital that barely got by. The Nursing I did at the public hospital was far more representative of "the kind of job I became a Nurse for".

So specifically what kind of job did you become a Nurse for?

It doesn't sound like a dilemma; it sounds like you've already made up your mind to jump ship if the other job presents itself.

Be very cautious is making this decision as it's highly likely that you'll be burning your bridge as you go. If you're not happy at the new job, you will find it difficult to relocate again anytime soon.

That said, your number one obligation is to yourself and if you feel that the new job is 'the one' then you should leap at the opportunity.

Sure, they'll be upset... and rightly so... but the truth is, you're just a pawn and your primary loyalty is to yourself so do what's in your own best interest.

Keep your resignation letter succinct and professional.

Best of luck to you.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

You owe your current employer, zip.. nada.. zilch. Including the ridiculous 3 weeks notice.

Prepare for this in your interview... "Why are you leaving your current position?" Your answer must assure them you will not leave them after 5 months.

Good luck, life is too short to settle on less than your deserve.

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

Prepare for this in your interview... "Why are you leaving your current position?" Your answer must assure them you will not leave them after 5 months.

This. Because that will be one of the top questions in their minds--they'll be looking at you wondering if you will do the same to them. And if you get this job, be prepared to give them at least a year...as having two short-term jobs as a new grad would not make you a very appealing candidate.

Provided you have no contractual obligations, give them the required notice and try to leave on the best terms possible.

Good luck with the interview and whatever you decide!