Working shifts-is this legal?

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Got a question, just wanted some input. When I recently started at a nursing home, I started with block schedule-12 hour shifts. Worked fine.........until the NEW plan came into effect. Now, we work 8 hour shifts-except on weekends and holidays--then 12 hours. And if they can't find someone to fill the shift--they put someone on to fill it. Can they DO this??? I guess it really sucks, because you finally get your own routine going--then you work a different shift, or an 8 hour instead of a 12 hour, etc. etc. Also--they are talking of implementing an on-call system that you would be REQUIRED to participate in! SHEESH!!!!! Any ideas? We aren't union or anything.

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Specializes in Corrections, Cardiac, Hospice.
Got a question, just wanted some input. When I recently started at a nursing home, I started with block schedule-12 hour shifts. Worked fine.........until the NEW plan came into effect. Now, we work 8 hour shifts-except on weekends and holidays--then 12 hours. And if they can't find someone to fill the shift--they put someone on to fill it. Can they DO this??? I guess it really sucks, because you finally get your own routine going--then you work a different shift, or an 8 hour instead of a 12 hour, etc. etc. Also--they are talking of implementing an on-call system that you would be REQUIRED to participate in! SHEESH!!!!! Any ideas? We aren't union or anything.

Yeah, I would get a new job.

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I have one on the horizon!! Was offered one with 3 12's--rock solid schedule-never changes-always same days. No meds or treatments (yeah right!). and same money. Plus a great DON. I used to work with her at the hell hole we both worked at before this one. I am off for a month after having surgery--so I am weighing my options!

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Specializes in Peds Cardiology,Peds Neuro,Pedi ER,PICU, IV Jedi.
Got a question, just wanted some input. When I recently started at a nursing home, I started with block schedule-12 hour shifts. Worked fine.........until the NEW plan came into effect. Now, we work 8 hour shifts-except on weekends and holidays--then 12 hours. And if they can't find someone to fill the shift--they put someone on to fill it. Can they DO this??? I guess it really sucks, because you finally get your own routine going--then you work a different shift, or an 8 hour instead of a 12 hour, etc. etc. Also--they are talking of implementing an on-call system that you would be REQUIRED to participate in! SHEESH!!!!! Any ideas? We aren't union or anything.

Ditto on the above advice...ditch the loser employer. Obviously they lack respect for their staff.

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Got a question, just wanted some input. When I recently started at a nursing home, I started with block schedule-12 hour shifts. Worked fine.........until the NEW plan came into effect. Now, we work 8 hour shifts-except on weekends and holidays--then 12 hours. And if they can't find someone to fill the shift--they put someone on to fill it. Can they DO this??? I guess it really sucks, because you finally get your own routine going--then you work a different shift, or an 8 hour instead of a 12 hour, etc. etc. Also--they are talking of implementing an on-call system that you would be REQUIRED to participate in! SHEESH!!!!! Any ideas? We aren't union or anything.

Yes, it is legal, unless you have a contract with them that guarantees you 12 hour shifts each week. Chances are you do not.

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Specializes in ER.

They can do it if the staff puts up with it, that's about the sum total of it.

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When you leave (notice I said when, not if), make sure you let them know the reason why. If nothing else, you may help out future staff. good luck!

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