Seeking Advice

[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.

[psu_213, BSN, RN]

You simply tell your NM that you need to change to PRN status. It is really not her business why you need to change. I would not put any conditions (like when your position is filled) on it. Suppose your leaving makes 4 open RN positions. Yours will likely be the 4th filled, which means you might have to wait for months until you can move to your new position.

If they can't "cater" (I would choose a different word) to your needs, they looks for a new job, apply, etc., and give you two weeks. In my mind, if you were a good employee and you resign in the right way (i.e., work out your two weeks), then I don't see you as burning any bridges.

[chivon101]

What are the requirements to go PRN? I work ER and one of facilities I've worked in you had to have at least 2 years experience before they let you go PRN. If you health is suffering, the last thing you want is to lose your health benefits. Is part time with benefits not an option?

[canoehead, BSN, RN]

In my hospital the manager has refused to let a regular employee go to prn because she says she "cant release them due to unit needs." So they have to quit, and she refuses to hire them prn. Given that situation, I would go through employee health. Tell them you need to reduce your hours, and your proposed solution. There are rights given to employees who need accommodation due to disability (and you may qualify, even temporarily.