First job in research - not really what I went to school for

Hi all,

So, after nearly a year looking for work (new BSN as of last year), I stumbled into a research position. They wanted an RN, and I accepted. It's a 5-year grant, and sounds like fun. I will be recruiting, making home visits and helping compile data and possibly the paper. I am very analytical, which is partly why I took the job. The other part - we all know - because of the economy/hiring freezes/no new grads/very hard to come by.

The plus sides: it pays well, as I will be making more than most new grads in our area, it's very flexible, and IT IS A JOB!

The down sides: the only skills I will be using is drawing blood, which I already knew how to do, working as a medical assistant for years, and some assessment (psychological only), interacting with, and teaching of the participants. That's it. All the stuff I learned in nursing school - lost? (I guess I should throw the driving in there, as I will be driving through the city and commuting from home a lot).

How do I keep up skills for future jobs? Is it not a good idea to start in research? Has anyone experienced this, or know of anyone having a hard time getting a job on a unit or doctor's office after this?

Any advice welcome. Oh, I should mention that it is at a university, so I could probably get some continuing education, but not sure about clinicals or shadowing. I would prefer patient contact, other than participants in a study and the doctors and nurses I will be interacting with.

Thanks!