What are the benefits and rewards of working in a nursing home?

Nursing Students CNA/MA

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Specializes in 6 yrs LTC, 1 yr MedSurg, Wound Care.

I have had lots of trouble finding my first CNA job. I really wanted to work in a hospital but after several tries that just isn't going to work out. I don't have any experience. It looks like my option now is LTC. To be honest, this really isn't where I want to be, but if it's what I have to do then I'm all for it. I'm trying to look at the brighter side of things and use this experience as a learning one.

So for those of you who work or have worked in a LTC facility, what are some of the things that keep you getting up every morning and going back for more? What do you love about your job?

Dondie

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Specializes in LTC.

I love old people. They can be so funny. I also love leaving at the end of my shift knowing that I gave good care. I love teamwork and helping out my coworkers. I also love me a good gripe session!

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Specializes in LTC, geriatrics, hospice, etc.

The people are everything. If you do your job and treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve, you have a friend for life. I have had so many offers to go private duty by my residents who were discharged, but I just couldnt do it. I couldn't leave the others.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Since some of the family members of the elderly people hardly ever visit, a possible reward is knowing that you have provided some type of warmth and companionship in their lives, if only for a brief moment.

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Specializes in Med-Surg/urology.

I know how you are feeling. When I first got my CNA license I had it all planned in my mind that I was going to apply at one of the nicest hospitals in the area for a position on the labor & delivery unit. I didn't even want to consider working with the elderly! But getting a job in that hospital in this area is super hard. Most won't even look at you if you don't have 6mos-1 yr. experience. So I took a job at an ALF, and I really love it. I think geriatrics is my passion! You may enjoy it too :up: good luck!

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Specializes in Geriatrics..

1. The sense of camaraderie that can develop between you and your co-workers.

2. There will no doubt be at least one little old person who will steal your heart and become your pet.

3. The pleasantly confused residents are the most fun to interact with, there is always something interesting going on in their own little worlds.

4. You'll be involved in some hilarious situations (you'll just have to see what I mean.)

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