Does LTC experience effect your chances of getting into a hospital?

[MelodyRNurse]

I have been turned down for a lot of hospital positions, that I really wanted, and I think it might be because of my LTC experience. I have worked in LTC for about two years as an LPN and recently obtained my RN license. I have worked at three different nursing homes in two years. The first one was for only five months (per diem)j, the second for a year and a half, and then there is my new job. I have always wanted to work in acute care, but as an LPN the opportunity was not there and now it seems like the only job I can get is in LTC and I am very frustrated. I do not want to work in LTC for another six months and especially not for the rest of my life.

I would think, given that I actually have nursing experience, I would be more marketable then the average new RN, but it doesn't seem that way. I am afraid that the longer I stay in LTC, the harder it will be for me to move to acute care. Is that true, or am I way off base here???

[husker_rn, RN]

I had been out of hospital nursing and in LTC for about 8-9 years. I took a job at an LTAC [ long term acute care ] and that made it a breeze to walk into med-surg. Is that available/an option for you ?

[NYRN08]

I'm in New York State sooo....our facilities are LTC mixed with Rehab. I haven't heard of an acute/LTC facility. Sounds interesting though.

[kelvz]

I think it all depends on how you present your experience as a LTC nurse. Most LTC homes have for example provide cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation, post-surgical or post illness rehabilitation, and so much more. So put them down as your experience if I were you. Its how you present yourself that counts. Good luck to all those who are applying for jobs!