Tired of Being Abused on My Unit

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Tired of Being Abused on My Unit

Hi there!

I am a nursing student and a patient care technician on a telemetry floor. I've worked on med-surg and telemetry a little over a year now and I really do not like it. I decided to get a job at another hospital and there I realized, I love the hospital and company, but tele and med-surg is just not for me. I love nursing and I am still going to pursue nursing school and become an RN, but I am tired of being verbally or physically abused by patients and sometimes even staff.

I think I would be happier working on the Mother/Baby unit at my hospital but since I just got hired there I believe I would need a very good reason why I want to transfer a couple weeks after my 90-day probation period for new hires. How do I ask human resources or my nursing manager to transfer without telling them it's because I hate working on the unit I am on?

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Hate My Unit,

Your situation is delicate in a few ways.

The manager who hired you may feel let down by your departure after only 90 days. Nurse managers make an effort to build a strong team by hiring individuals who they believe will be a good match.

Before moving forward, check the organization's policies about transferring. Some stipulate working six months or longer before allowing internal transfers.

Remember that you are building your resume and work history, especially since this will be your second job change within a year.

Potential employers take note of the duration of your previous job experiences.

It seems you are leaving a unit you do not like rather than moving towards a specialty you are passionate about. I suggest considering another option. Staying for one year could be beneficial if it is feasible for you.

You may encounter similar interpersonal difficulties on the Mother/Baby unit. In other words, it could be the same situation, just with different people.

Taking assertiveness training or getting counseling to handle mistreatment from patients or colleagues could be helpful. Learning to set boundaries can be very empowering. Don't hesitate to ask your nurse educator for any available resources.

Additionally, consider learning through observation of your colleagues. Select a colleague that you admire and observe how they manage instances of verbal abuse from patients.

If you move forward with your transfer request, it is an opportunity to practice professional behavior. Here are some tips on how to frame your request:

Plan your approach. Approach the conversation professionally and thoughtfully. Have your key talking points ready.

Emphasize your interest. Express your genuine interest in maternal and newborn care. Talk about your enthusiasm for working with mothers and babies and how you believe this area aligns well with your career goals.

Talk about the hospital culture. Express your admiration for the hospital and company culture. Mention how your values align with the organization's and how you see yourself thriving in a supportive, patient-centered environment like the Mother/Baby unit.

Focus on professional growth. Emphasize that you see this transfer as an opportunity to grow as a nurse and expand your clinical expertise. Discuss how working in the Mother/Baby unit will enable you to develop specialized skills and knowledge.

Mention your experiences. Share any positive experiences you've had while assisting in maternal and newborn care during your nursing studies or as a patient care technician. Explain how these experiences have strengthened your desire to work in this specialty.

Discuss your skill set. Highlight any skills or attributes that make you a good fit for the Mother/Baby unit. For example, your ability to communicate effectively, provide compassionate care, or work well in a team environment.

Express your commitment. Let your manager and HR know that you are dedicated to the hospital and company and that your desire to transfer is based on a strong desire to grow within the organization.

Be respectful and positive. Avoid speaking negatively about your current unit or experiences. Instead, maintain a positive tone throughout the conversation and focus on the exciting possibilities of working in the Mother/Baby unit.

Demonstrate flexibility. Be open to discussing potential transition timelines or additional training you may need to transition to the new unit successfully.

Seek guidance. If you feel comfortable, contact your nurse educator or a mentor within the organization for advice on approaching the transfer request professionally and timely.

Use the right timing. Choose an appropriate time to discuss your transfer request. Avoid busy or stressful periods, and schedule a meeting when your manager or HR representative is more likely to have time for a meaningful conversation.

Express gratitude. Thank your HR representative or nursing manager for considering your request and expressing appreciation for the opportunity to work in the hospital.

Remember, organizations value employees who show dedication, enthusiasm, and a willingness to grow and develop within the company. Presenting your transfer request positively and professionally increases your chances of being considered for the desired position on the Mother/Baby unit.

Best wishes in your decision,

Nurse Beth
 

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