Role of the RN in LTC

[manna]

I know this varies from state to state and facility to facility.. but I have a general question.

I'm probably the only nursing student in the world who had little-no experience in LTC during clinicals.

I'm considering taking a job at a local LTC. The perks are that it is in my hometown (where we live now and are already well established, kids, etc), pays relatively well and has flexible shifts. I don't know about the negatives... I never pictured myself working LTC (I did an externship and will do a preceptorship in ICU, which I would like to do eventually.. but am not sure if it's worth uprooting my family over - we'd have to move to a city with a larger hospital). But then, I never really pictured myself not doing it, either.

I'm not really sure of the role of the RN in LTC facilities. In general, is it usually case manager type role? For example, in facilities I have visited in the past, LPNs did most dressing changes and medication administration. The RNs at that location mostly managed paperwork and staffing. Not sure if that's the way it is in most locations or not, though.

I'm meeting with the DON at this LTC facility tomorrow, so I know I can ask my questions there. However, I don't want to show up looking like a complete idiot! LOL

Oh, by the way - I graduate nursing school in May, so this would be my first nursing job. IS it hard to transition from working LTC to a staff nurse job? I wouldn't want to rule that out in the future....

[arak1547]

I have just recently taken a position as RN night supervisor in a local LTC facility. I've been nursing for 11 years; most of it in hospitals. I switched because I wanted the experience of being in a leadership position, knowing what and who I will be responsible for that night, as well as low resident turnover rate. This particular facility has just opened 10 more beds and now has a total of 176! I've only been on the job three days and it has been very enjoyable so far. IMO, LTC facilities are the wave of the future and will continue to serve their communities as larger portions of the population need a place to convalesce. My facility offers assisted living, skilled care, and general long term care. I am very excited about the possiblities of becoming a D.O.N. administrative director, and/or opening my own facility at some point!