Why does there seem to be such a stigma against LTC nurses? It almost feels like that is the bottom of the barrell. Even I thought (while working in LTC) that I needed to move up and out- twice- and hated it both times. I started in a hospital, hated being micro-managed, and went back to a LTC. I stayed for 6 years, got my RN and once again felt the need to move on up to the hospital- where I once again hate it, and for the same reasons! I have finally decided that it is okay to just say I love LTC, and this is where I want to stay. My dreams of being the charge nurse in the ICU and ER are gone. My focus in life is to be where I am happy, and that is with my old people.
I like seeing them, and they appreciate friendly, consistent care. They remember my husband and I bought a house several years ago, and we talk about the work we are doing and the amount of money it costs, and they tell me their new housing days. Or, with my demented patients, we just head off to whereever they are for they day, and discuss related events/news. I even like when I can be a part of their final days- making them comfortable and relaxed, easing their families worries knowing someone they know will be with their loved ones, and so on.
I write this because I excitedly gave my notice at the hospital and am heading back to LTC where I can be happy with the old people (like my 105yr old who swears by bacon and women being educated as requirements for long term survival!).