Should I stay or should I go?

[futurelpn22]

Hi everyone I'm a fairly new lpn been in Alf for 5 months now but I'm thinking about putting in my two weeks notice. About a month ago we grew short of help when 2 second shift nurses quit back to back. Management handled it quickly by hiring 2 new nurses that were suppose to start immediately. Fast forward to now both nurses didn't show up and now me along with my fellow co worker were forced to work two weeks straight without any days off. My RSD along with the ED went on vacation and hasn't even thought about getting us any help. They suggested for me to work by myself first shift passing meds to 80+ residents, handling orders, supervising cna s, and trouble shooting emergencies. So that I can allow my co-worker a day off and she work by herself so I can have a day off. Is this legal in Alf also they continue to add residents even though we are short staffed. I need my job but I can't continue on under these conditions Am I overreacting or is this normal?

[xoemmylouox, ASN, RN]

Well most states do not have patient to staff ratios so this more than likely is legal. If you and the other employee are willing to stand firm together I would inform them that you are both on the brink if they do not get you some help ASAP. You MUST be a united front through. I wouldn't quit without another job, so I would start applying for a new job NOW.

[de1150]

This is not legal and you need to go overhead to greater superiors. If there are none, I think I would rethink my working conditions. It's your license, remember that. It's personal and working this hard could put you in a situation that may not be good for your patients, or you. Patients first!

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

Ask yourself why the nurses quit in the first place, and why the new nurses never showed up.

It's because they have more experience and can see what is going on.

You cannot be forced to work over 40 hours per week. Outrageous you can't get a day off, yet the RSD (?) takes a VACATION. You are being used and abused.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

This is not legal

Unfortunately, it is very much legal...California is the only state in the union with legally mandated nurse/patient ratios, and they are applicable to acute care hospitals, not assisted living or LTC. The other 49 states have no legally mandated nurse/patient ratios.

However, although what's happening to the OP is perfectly legal, it isn't right. He's being raked over the coals, used, abused, chewed up, and spit out. It is time for him to find another job ASAP.