New Grad RN in LTC, what can I do?

[FocusRN]

I will be graduating early 2011, and I want to work in LTC, but I only see ads for LPNs. If you are an RN in LTC how did you get your job? I mean did they advertise for it, did you just apply, or did they place in in a spot for an LPN or what?

Also, are you on the floor, or are you management of some type, ect?

How would you recommend I do my jobs search?

Thanks in advance.

[rainbow11]

The key is making sure that you get a good orientation with an experienced nurse. It can be a logistical nightmare as far as the amount of multitasking, that is involved. Nights is the best way to ease into it. To get your feet wet. To see if it's for you. As far as LPN's are concerned it is all about trust and respect. They work under their own license and are given a job description that they are qualified and trained to do. You will need to rely on them for guidance for a good long while as well as the rest of your staff.

Thank you for your advice! I find this forum extremely helpful!! I am a new grad RN too. After months of searching for a hospital position (RN Residency programs) I think from now on I will apply everywhere including LTC and home health. I kept avoiding them simply because I was just afraid of not having adequate training and losing my license easily. I just need to start somewhere to gain some experience. Now I'm willing at least to try to go this route. I guess you don't know for sure unless you try. Good luck to all new grads in job hunting!

[Jw1724]

I found my current LTC job (RN) on monster.com but I don't think this normally happens. Good luck!