Seeking Advice for Going from Full-time to PRN

[Cbsn3210]

Hi,

I am a new grad that works in a busy ER full-time on nights. I have been told by my manager, my nursing supervisors, and by my co-workers that I am doing a great job and that I am a great nurse. However, recently my health has greatly suffered. Also, other nurses that have worked in my department are leaving due to personal related matters. How do I tell my boss that I would like to go to prn due to health reasons (and how much should I tell them) when there is already a severe shortage. I have already decided to meet with my manager and let them know there is an issue and how I would like to present a solution (going to prn instead of quitting, be willing to stay full-time until the slot can be filled, etc, etc). How do I do this without being fired? And if I do have to quit because they cannot cater to my needs, how do I salvage any references for a future job once my health recovers? Any advice given would be helpful. This is my first nursing job and I do not want to burn any bridges. I love my job, but I have to cater to my own personal health needs.

[Lev, MSN, RN, NP]

Tell them that you are going PRN because you want to go back to school and want to be able to focus your efforts on that.

[Marshall1]

I would simply tell them, if you haven't already, that your personal situation has changed and you very much want to stay employed there but need to move into a PRN status..that being said..you need to ask yourself if you can afford to go PRN? Do you have insurance through the employer? If so, how will you afford it w/o being FT? Also, if you are called off for days on end can you handle that financially? A lot of PRN nurses work a few places PRN just to make sure they have the income they need along w/the flexibility they desire. I worked years PRN and rarely had an issue w/not being needed - there was always someone needing off, calling off or going on leave - this was at a larger hospital though so that helped. Good for you for looking out for yourself

[LeChien, BSN, RN]

Give them a two week notice in writing stating you would like to drop down to PRN. You can say it is health-related but really it is none of their business if you give proper notice.