Newer nurse to DD/MR nursing

Specialties Disabilities

Published

Hi everyone!

I've been a long time visitor to this site, but have never posted before today. I graduated almost two years ago and started out in LTC and then moved to working in a day program for adults with developmental disabilities. It's a field that I knew NOTHING about, but have grown to love it! I actually enjoy going to work every day. I was hoping to talk to some other nurses in the field whether in day programs or residential programs, because I feel as though this is a very unique area of nursing, and would love to hear from you.

Thanks :heartbeat

Specializes in DD, Geriatrics.

Nurse for 24 years, last 14 in DD worked in group homes, and currently am health coord. and QP for an adult day service. I have been certified as DDN since 2002. I would recommend joining the ddna. They are agreat source of info and networking. Most of us in this field know it can get pretty lonely out there. It is the best job I have ever had.:nurse:

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Any advise for an RN currently employed at a state institution working with DD/Psych pts looking to get out of the institution - what options are there?

I noticed a few of you work in Group Homes - how do you go about finding that type of employment?

Thanks!

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I've been in this field for 2.5 years now - love it and it's constant change and challenge.

Here's a question- how often do you do a physical nursing assessment on your clients? I am trying to strike a balance between seeing them often enough to feel like I know what's going on with them to and not having their home(s) feel like an institution - a big emphasis here in Oregon.

Monthly seems intrusive - they don't go to the doc every month, and some would really rather not have to be looked all over any more than necessary. Every 4 months is how often they are typically seen if stable by their practitioners, but that feels like too long in between, I think.

What do you all do?

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Hello,

I have been working at a day program for 4 1/2 years. Our program runs from pre school aged to senior population. There are days were it is bandaids and TLC others seizures and 911. Lots of teaching support staff, we like Mass (i live in NY) have non medical who can give medications. It is a very specialized field, one that is needed with the rise of autism. A great resource for me has been joining DDNA (developmentally disabled nurses association ).

Best of luck, welcome and may you always enjoy going to work!

:nurse:

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Karray

Working on studying for cert. Where did you get your study materials, how long did you study for and was it a hard test!

Thanks:nurse:

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Hello,

Have you joined DDNA? Great resources

Julianne

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You can always check out the DDNA (Developmental Disabilities Nursing Association) for more resources. They also hold an annual conference. Plus you can become certified!

Love the job - love the field.

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Specializes in LTC.

I've been working in a group home caring for 5 individuals for the past 2 years. I've finally found my niche as an LPN and love what I do. Great to meet the rest of you! :)

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Specializes in LTC.
Any advise for an RN currently employed at a state institution working with DD/Psych pts looking to get out of the institution - what options are there?

I noticed a few of you work in Group Homes - how do you go about finding that type of employment?

Thanks!

Maybe search for organizations in your area that provide services for MRDD individuals?

BTW love your name...I'm a Deadhead too. Going to Santa Clara in June! ;)

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