Should I stay or should I go now?

[MinnesotaLPN]

Hi everyone! I've been reading on this site for quite awhile, but have not yet posted. So here goes:

I have been working as an LPN for one year at an assisted living facility. It's my first nursing job. For various reasons (chronic understaffing, unstable management, currently no RN on-site, only one other LPN on staff, etc.), I have decided to start looking for a new job.

I had an interview at a clinic last week (have not heard back yet), and I have another interview at a different clinic next week.

Of course I do not have anything solid yet in the way of a new job, but I am hopeful. My issue is, I am feeling quite desperate to get out of my current job. I feel really vulnerable because there is no on-site RN anymore, and the other LPN has only been there a month. I think we're both scared of hurting our licenses if something goes wrong and we don't have the knowledge to handle it.

I am SO tempted to put in my 2-week notice this coming Monday the 9th, but my friends have advised against it because I do not yet have a new job. However, I really am afraid of staying at my current job much longer. I truly wish there was a DON or an RN at my job who could provide some supervision and be a resource. Due to financial reasons, I don't think we're getting a new RN on-site.

Thoughts?

[caliotter3]

There is a saying, "It is easier to get a job when you have a job". I would stick it out until you have a start date for the next job. You have one year at this place so you have an idea of what is going on. It might be a different matter if you had only been there for, say, two weeks.

[OrganizedChaos, LVN]

I would definitely hang in there, as hard as it must be, until you have a firm offer. What happens if you quit & then you don't get a job offer or another interview?

Keep your malpractice insurance up to date or get it if you don't have it & then keep applying to jobs.

[caliotter3]

While you are at work, when you are not immediately busy, take time to research and read any policy and procedure manuals. If you are concerned about your actions for an emergency situation or medical change with a resident, or any other aspect of your job, find something that gives you some guidance, and make cheat sheet cards or anything that will give you a feeling of confidence. Bounce scenarios off your coworker if they are on at the same time, so both of you are better prepared for the unexpected. Take proactive steps to try to make it a safer job environment. You will feel better about things if you are trying to improve matters. And keep your chin up about finding a new opportunity.

[MinnesotaLPN]

Thank you! Great advice.

[MinnesotaLPN]

Update: I *did* put my notice in before I had a new job offer, which was a risk. However, I got a new job offer today (2 days before my last day at the old job). So, everything worked out!