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Deciding to leave your position as a nurse is a significant choice, and it’s essential to handle it with professionalism and respect. One of the most effective ways to convey your decision is through a well-crafted resignation letter.
In this article, we will explain what a resignation letter entails, provide examples specifically tailored for nurses, and offer detailed instructions and tips for writing an exceptional resignation letter.
Key Takeaways
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A resignation letter is a formal method of notifying your employer of your intention to leave the job.
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Include a clear statement of resignation along with your last working day.
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Avoid negativity, excessive details about your reasons for leaving, or negotiations in your resignation letter.
What Is a Resignation Letter?
A resignation letter is a formal communication that clearly expresses your plans to leave your job. Whether written by hand or sent via email, it ensures that both you and your employer have a mutual understanding regarding your departure.
Even if you discuss your resignation in person, sending a resignation letter is crucial for maintaining a record of your employment details, which can be beneficial for future job applications within the healthcare sector.
Nurse Resignation Letter Examples
Example #1 – Handwritten Nursing Resignation
Lisa Samuels
(638)-876-9977
114 Banks Rd.
Los Angeles, CA, 73822To: Mr. Timothy Henderson
Chief Nursing Officer
867 North Hollywood Dr.
Los Angeles, CA, 37391November 8, 2026
Dear Mr. Henderson,
Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my position as a registered nurse (RN) at Lincoln Emergency Hospital. My last working day will be November 23, 2026, which is two weeks from today.
I would like to express my gratitude for the past five years at Lincoln Hospital, which have been incredibly educational and rewarding. I wish you and the team continued success in the future.
Should you need any assistance during this transition, please feel free to reach out.
Sincerely,
Lisa Samuels (Signature)
Lisa Samuels (Printed)
Example #2 – Nursing Resignation by Email
Subject Line: Resignation Letter – Samantha Price
Rebecca Lane
Lakewood Retirement Home
Head Nurse
RebeccaLane@LakewoodHomes.comNovember 8, 2026
Dear Mrs. Lane,
I am writing to formally resign from my role as a nursing assistant at Lakewood Retirement Home. My final day of employment will be November 23, 2026.
I am willing to assist in the search and training of my replacement during the next two weeks. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help during this transition.
Thank you for the opportunity to work with such a wonderful team at Lakewood Retirement Home.
Best Regards,
Samantha Price
SamanthaPrice@gmail.com
(626)-856-5581
What to Include In Your Resignation Letter
When crafting your resignation letter, it’s essential to focus on key elements to include while avoiding certain pitfalls. Below are guidelines for writing an effective resignation letter.
Do Include
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A clear resignation statement. Avoid ambiguity; state your intention to resign right from the beginning. This clarity helps your employer understand your decision without confusion.
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The date of your last day. Clearly specify your last working day. If possible, provide the standard two weeks’ notice to facilitate a smooth transition.
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Ample notice. Transitioning can be challenging, so providing sufficient notice is essential. If you can offer more than the standard two weeks, it will be appreciated.
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Gratitude (optional). While it’s common to leave jobs due to dissatisfaction, your resignation letter should remain positive. Consider thanking your employer for the experiences gained during your time there.
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Offer to assist with the transition (optional). If feasible, express your willingness to help train your replacement. This gesture can leave a positive impression as you depart.
Don’t Include
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Negativity. Regardless of your experiences, avoid venting frustrations in your resignation letter. Maintaining professionalism reflects well on your character.
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Excessive personal details. While you may be excited about a new opportunity, keep personal reasons for leaving private. Focus on what your employer needs to know.
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Negotiation. A resignation letter is not the place for negotiating terms or benefits. Ensure your decision to leave is firm before sending this letter.
How to Write a Letter of Resignation
Now that you’re ready to resign, follow these steps to draft an effective resignation letter.
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Choose your delivery method. Decide whether to write a handwritten letter or send an email. Handwritten letters can seem more formal, but emails are often more practical in today’s digital landscape.
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Include a professional header. Regardless of the format, include a header with the date and the recipient’s information. Using proper salutations shows professionalism.
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State your resignation clearly. Make your resignation known in the first sentence to avoid any ambiguity.
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Specify your last working day. This detail is critical; state it explicitly after your resignation statement.
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Offer assistance (optional). If you can help with the transition, mention it in the letter. This shows goodwill and professionalism.
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Close professionally. End with a formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards,” followed by your signature and printed name.
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Provide your contact information. Including your contact details allows your employer to reach you in the future if necessary.
Tips for Writing a Nurse Resignation Letter
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Be concise. Keep your resignation letter to one page. Get straight to the point and avoid unnecessary elaboration.
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Use proper formatting. Stick to standard fonts like Times New Roman or Calibri, maintain one-inch margins, and use single spacing for a polished appearance.
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Craft an informative email subject line. If sending via email, make the subject clear, such as “Resignation Letter – Andy Griffin,” to facilitate easy reference.
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Proofread your letter. Since this letter will become part of your permanent record, ensure it is free of grammatical errors and typos.
In conclusion, writing a resignation letter as a nurse is a vital step in your career transition. By following the guidelines and examples provided, you can ensure that your resignation is communicated professionally. This approach not only maintains your relationships within the healthcare community but also paves the way for future opportunities. Remember, a respectful exit can impact your professional reputation, so take the time to craft a thoughtful resignation letter.
Author
Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.
