Refusing to float

[NurseKC123]

I wanted to get ya lls opinion on refusing to float. The reason for the floating is because other units aren't properly staffed. Example: full time and prns ask off on the same day and everyone gets it, therefore no one is covering the floor. I work in OB/pediatrics and have never refused a float but currently it has been happening all the time! Our floor is ALWAYS staffed appropriately therefore we feel like sitting ducks when we notice other floors aren't covered. The floors needing to be covered most are medsurg and swingbed. Both of which are completely opposite of OB and pediatrics. What would the consequences be if one refuses to float??

[nursel56]

I really dislike floating but I was lucky to have a patient supervisor. She just sat there with her clipboard and let me whine for 5 minutes before I reluctantly acceded to her staffing plan. Both of us realizing my general level of annoyance would never be a priority that trumps a unit without nurses.

They never tossed me in the deep water with complex patients, though. I was more irritated by being forced out of my comfort zone, as well as a snotty attitude from some NMs when you ask where a piece of equipment is located or some other simple question. I felt like saying, hey, you think I want to be here?

OP it sounds like a systemic problem with staffing there. You'd think even a really incompetent staffer would notice they are dealing with a blank schedule due to pre-approved time off for both full-time and prn nurses.

Overall though, I agree with NuGuyNurse2b. Your manager needs to speak up for your floor.