My unit closed and the next job they gave me i was unable to do, can I collect unemployment?

by Cathy M
(Wisconsin)

I was a Pediatric nurse, always, then our unit closed. Because I need a job I accepted a position on the regular adult surgical floor. I expressed doubts about being able to physically do the work during the transition meetings. Turns out I was not able to do the work, it wasn't safe for me or the patients, and I ended up going to the chiropractor. I was afraid of being seriously injured and totally beat and exhausted, both physically and mentally by the end of my shift. They said "get more efficient", well no matter how efficient I get I will never be able to tolerate 300 pound people hanging on me or repositioning them in bed. Also since Peds had closed and they promised the upset surgeons that they would keep Peds nurses on call 24/7. Now they had me on call till 3 am after my evening shift which I couldn't cover with a sitter (I am a single Grandma raising a grandson). It was all to much and I couldn't do it. My unemployment phone interview is this week.Please help. Thanks, Cindy M


Hi Cathy,

Wisconsin gives unemployment benefits more often than any other state. It is very claimant friendly.

Decision digests are the missing ingredient in most states, that enable an average person to get their mind wrapped around how a state decides whether a person can get unemployment, but fortunately Wisconsin has one:)

Here is what you need to do in order to understand and find the key points in your situation that you will want to focus on during the interview. This is the link to the Wisconsin UI decision digest.


Once you get to the main page, you'll want to click Voluntary Leaving. You should read anything that relates to the underlying reason(s) you quit and then determine and choose the one you think offers the best argument for the valid reason you quit.

Often times, there may be more than one reason, but you should choose a primary focus.

When we start listing every reason we can think of .. including the kitchen sink .. we run the risk of "self disqualifying". It's better to pinpoint the strongest element in our situation that provides for allowed benefits.

I suggest you read some of the decisions which concern quitting for health reasons and anything else that jumps out at you as relevant.

The other elements, such as working conditions may be asked about, but choosing working conditions as the primary focus naturally requires more rebuttal from the other side. Just something to consider.

I feel confident your reason(s) are valid for quitting in Wisconsin and I also feel that after reading some decisions, you will too.

I would appreciate it if you'd come back and update your submission .. so others with similar reasons can learn from your experience.

Good Luck Cathy.