Which job should I take?

Hi Everyone!

So I am going to be a new graduate nurse in a few weeks, and have been searching for jobs these past few months. About a month ago I had an interview at a hospital for a medical position. They are offering great pay and benefits, but I am not super excited about the floor as there are a lot of detoxing patients there. I went ahead and accepted a position there, although I didn't get great vibes from the HR people and my manager. I .outlying accepted this because it is a job.

Even though I had accepted the position, a hospital that I really like called and asked for an interview with me. I interviewed yesterday and absolutely loved it. I got along with the manager super well and they're offering me a spot on their cardiac floor, which I ultimately really want. They're also offering me evenings, which is crazy as a new grad, and a much better orientation process! It also is far closer to home, and pay is still very decent.

My question is, can I tell the first hospital that I'm going to go a different direction and take the second position? I dont want to go back on my word, although no paper work or anything has been signed and I still wouldn't start for 2 months. Is this incredibly unprofessional? Also, any thoughts on a new grad on a cardiac floor vs a medical floor with lots of detoxers? I've heard they can be incredibly difficult...

Thank you for your thoughts!

You wouldn't start for two months? You're fine to reneg on the original job offer - just do it as soon as you can.

PS - Cardiac patients have DTs and that sort of thing, too - you are going to have some experience with detox in any setting, honestly.

If you haven't signed a contract, I would let the first hospital know you've accepted another offer that works better for your family.

Thank them for their offer, let them know you think they're a great facility and you'll pass along their info to your nurse friends who are looking for positions.

That way, you don't burn a bridge.

Congratulations, and good luck!

Thank you very much, I appreciate your thoughts!!