Do I Need to Submit a Letter of Resignation When I Quit My Nursing Job?
In most cases, it’s ideal to submit a resignation letter when you quit a nursing position. This simple step allows you to leave on good terms, create a written record of your decision, and maintain professional connections that benefit your career.
When you provide a formal resignation letter and follow company protocols, you can:
- keep the option open for future rehire
- maintain a strong reputation with your state’s licensing board
- qualify for continuing education funding from your employer
What Is the Standard Notice Period for Nurses?
The standard notice period for nurses, as it is for many other occupations, is two weeks’ notice.
How to Write a Nursing Resignation Letter
Craft a professional and respectful nursing resignation letter that not only reflects your appreciation but also clearly communicates your decision to move on.
1. Include a Header and Salutation
At the top of your nursing resignation letter, include the header with your name, address, and contact information. Add the date you’re sending the letter and left-align the recipient’s information, including their name, title, company, and address. Address the reader with a simple salutation, such as “Dear Recipient’s Name.”
2. Write Your Intent to Resign
Clearly write your intent to resign. Specify your job title and the healthcare institution from which you’re resigning. A professional resignation letter should also state the date you’re leaving.
3. Provide Reasons for Resignation
Nursing resignation letters may not need to contain a reason, depending on your circumstances. However, a reason can provide your employer with context and let them understand your rationale.
A nurse may resign from their position for one of the following reasons:
- manage work-related stress
- accept a nursing position at another healthcare facility
- leave a negative work environment
- transition to a new career field
- seek a better work-life balance elsewhere
- relocate to a new city
- attend to a personal or family matter
Retiring from Nursing?
If you plan to retire from nursing and end your career, you may use a retirement resignation letter.
4. Show Gratitude
Show gratitude for the experiences you’ve had and the lessons you’ve learned from your position. This gratitude can help you leave a positive impression and garner references if needed later.
5. Offer to Assist with the Transition
Even though you’re leaving, you can offer to take various steps to prepare your employer for your absence:
- Train your replacement and let them shadow you.
- Document new hires’ expectations for daily tasks and patient interactions.
- Share patient care responsibilities with team members who will take over the relevant tasks.
- Assist with scheduling to help manage nurse shifts and coverage.
- Report to your supervisor to discuss ongoing tasks.
- Assist with the refinement of emergency protocols that team members can implement to manage critical situations.
Discussing these factors can help make your resignation process smoother for your employer and your patients.
6. Close the Letter
Wish your manager and their team well, and state your hope for the healthcare institution’s continued success. Insert a valediction and sign your name.
Nursing Resignation Letter Examples
Not everyone’s journey is the same, so it’s important to tailor your nursing resignation letter to reflect your unique situation. Reviewing examples of professional nursing resignation letters can provide helpful insight into what to include and how to structure your message.
These examples can inspire you as you adapt your letter to express your gratitude, clarify your reasons for leaving, and keep a strong relationship with your employer.
1. RN Resignation Letter from Full-Time to Per Diem Nursing
You may want to switch jobs because your current position doesn’t align with your personal lifestyle or evolving career goals. This example reflects the thoughtful decision to transition to per diem nursing from full-time nursing.
Marc Volk
789 Elm Street
Seattle, WA 98101
(555) 322-8455
[email protected]
November 5, 2024
Susan Hargis
Director of Nursing
Starlight Medical Center
123 Healthway Drive
Denver, CO 80202
Dear Susan Hargis,
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from the position of Registered Nurse at Starlight Medical Center, effective November 19, 2024.
After thoughtful consideration, I have decided to transition to a per diem nursing role to explore opportunities that will help me achieve a better work-life balance.
I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities for growth and development that I’ve experienced during my time at Starlight Medical Center. Your guidance and support have been invaluable, and I will carry the lessons I’ve learned here with me throughout my career.
During the transition, I am committed to ensuring a smooth handover of my responsibilities. I’ll remain available at [email protected] or (555) 322-8455 after my departure, should you need any further assistance.
I wish you and Starlight Medical Center continued success.
Sincerely,
Marc Volk
2. Nursing Assistant Resignation Letter
If you’re currently in an entry-level nursing role, you likely gained valuable experience that you can take with you as you grow in your career. If it’s time to leave, you may be wondering how to word your resignation letter so you can express your pursuit of a better opportunity.
This nursing assistant resignation letter example shows a nursing assistant’s commitment to their career path and decision to pursue higher education.
Elizabeth Bethel
456 Oak Avenue
Chicago, IL 60614
(555) 974-9447
[email protected]
November 5, 2024
Chris Johnson
Director of Nursing
Harmony Healthcare Services
789 Care Way
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Dear Chris Johnson,
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from the position of Nursing Assistant at Harmony Healthcare Services, effective November 19, 2024.
After thoughtful consideration, I have made the decision to resign from my position to explore other educational opportunities and advance my career.
I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities for growth and development that I’ve experienced during my time at Harmony Healthcare Services. Your guidance and support have been invaluable, and I will carry the lessons I’ve learned here with me throughout my career.
During the transition, I am committed to ensuring a smooth handover of my responsibilities. I’ll remain available at [email protected] or (555) 974-9447 after my departure, should you need any further assistance.
I wish you and Harmony Healthcare Services continued success.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Bethel
Letter of Recommendation for Nursing School
If you resign from a position to go back to nursing school and advance your education, you can ask your former employer for a letter of recommendation for nursing school.
Tips for Writing a Nursing Resignation Letter
Follow these tips for writing a nursing resignation letter to experience optimal success:
- Talk to your supervisor first, as an in-person conversation can let you show professional courtesy and provide closure for both parties.
- Provide minimal details about your departure in your letter to maintain professionalism and objectivity.
- Keep a copy for your records to collect proof that you issued the adequate notice period for nurses.
- Keep a positive tone in your letter, and save any complaints or suggestions for improvement for your exit interview.
Sample Resignation Letter for Nurses
Check out a sample of a nursing resignation letter template.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I resign from a nursing job?
Here are some steps you can take to resign from your nursing position:
- Review your company’s policy for procedures related to resignation.
- Prepare your nurse resignation notice.
- Set up a meeting to discuss the resignation with your direct manager in person.
- Submit your letter.
- Return company equipment, participate in an exit interview, and complete other company-specific exit procedures.
Can I just quit a nursing job?
Yes, you can just quit a nursing job if it inflicts an unmanageable amount of stress or if you want to seek a new opportunity.
If you plan to quit, you should plan to provide adequate notice. Sufficient notice can help you adhere to your employment contract and limit interruptions in patient care.
Can I resign from my nursing job via email?
Some companies let you resign from a nursing job via email. Check your company’s policy to ensure that this method is acceptable.
If you resign via email, maintain a professional tone and follow up with your supervisor to learn about additional steps you must take to complete the resignation.
