What should I have done differently?

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So I signed a 15 month contract as a new graduate nurse and a few weeks into the job, I hate it. I did not know about the commitment during the interview.

My question is: has anyone NOT signed the contract and still worked? Or did you negotiate it differently?

I was so caught off guard and did not know how to approach the situation. I am now reflecting on what I should of said to not sign/commitment for so long. I was so worried that if I did not sign, I would not have the position because they would of found someone who would have signed.

Has anyone had a similar situation?

Thanks!

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Just wondering, why do you consider the job so bad that you would rather be unemployed than work for the next year while looking for a better job? I'm just wondering bc the hiring isn't exactly good right now for new grads.

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The unit is so unprofessional. I was hired to work in a different area/population and was placed into this unit. I would rather be unemployed than work with awful co-workers, back stabbers, awful work schedule (was promised 3 12's and am stuck with 5 8's), etc.

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Well, there are unpleasant work environments, and then there are work environments that threaten your ability to work (ie, so poorly staffed that you could lose your license). If it is an unpleasant work environment, I would stick it out. A year in the grand scheme of things is really not a hell of a lot of time. Unless you are wealthy, I do not see any reasonable option here other than sticking it out. Again, unless your license is seriously at risk.

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True, thank you!

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Also, I do not know the details of your work environment, but I can tell you that awful co-workers, backstabbers, and less than promised work schedules are pretty common in nursing, perhaps laughably so.

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Specializes in critical care.

Is transferring to a different unit at some point a possibility? That could make all the difference.

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Specializes in ER/ICU/STICU.

I think your first step should be to take out the contract and review it. After thorough review you can decide what your options are and what type of penalties, if any, there are for breaking the contract.

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I wish I could transfer...the policy is 1 year to transfer.

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Specializes in Med surg, LTC, Administration.

Break the darn thing. They don't own you. Besides, don't you have a 90 day probational period? Please check, that 90 day period is there for this reason. You or the employer can terminate contact, at any time within the 90 day period, without question.

But, if you think the grass is greener somewhere else, please keep reading these boards. If it is the schedule and you have it in writing, then call them on it. Even if you don't, it won't hurt to try. Good luck. Peace!

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Thanks Chinup. LOL about your post...I posted a question if I can break the contract and got eaten alive. You are correct-I do have 90 days probation. I am afraid to mention anything because 15 months is a long time to not get along with the boss. If I leave I have to pay back $10,000 for the cost of the 3 month internship. Grrrr!

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What? They are charging you $10,000 for an internship?

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