New rn grad starting a ltc with only 3 days orientation?!!

[Hokis1130]

Hi Everyone,

I just moved to mass and I recently just got a job at a LTC facility/Rehab 10 mins away I live. First of all the interview was a joke because they never even really interviewed me but just asked me what shift I prefer, and if i want f/t, p/t etc. As well as when I would be able to start. The same day (today) they called me back to offer me the position but the only problem is their orientation is only 3DAYS!!! I'm like wow! I already accepted the job because starting salary is $32 an hour! I also just went on an interview at a psych hospital and their starting salary was 24.50,(both pays are not including differentials) with much more orientation, this psych place is literally 5 mins away from me.

My question is, is that really enough time only 3 days of orientation as a a new grad???? I feel as though that is nearly not enough orientation for a new grad. I need help I had already said I would take their offer but I'm honestly wondering is the money even worth it or should I just go with the psych hospital to which I know my orientation will be longer but my pay is less. I am sooooooooooooooooooo nervous as all heck to start a position as to where I only have 3 days orientation, also I wouldn't even be on a a specific floor everyday but like a float which makes it that much harder because I have to get to know so many patients. I'm seriously about to forget about the LTC facility and just go with the psych position. BUT IS THAT WORTH IT? IS THE PAY WORTH IT? HELP I'M SO NERVOUS I'M SUPPOSED TO START ORIENTATION THIS WEDNESDAY!!!

Thanks everyone!!!

[katyb213]

Did you pass your NCLEX before applying to these hospitals?

3 days seems a little sketchy to me!

[pgirl0310]

I am supposed to be starting in the sub acute unit at ltc/rehab facility next week. They are offering me 1 week orientation and I am starting w 20 patients. BTW I am a new grad and a bit nervous.....

[imelissa1]

I worked at a sub-acute with 15 years of nursing experience, but, no sub-acute experience and they gave me 4 weeks. I still needed more. The point is that one week may be good for someone with direct experience, but, for anyone else you need at least 1-2 months. The problem is that there is so much employee turn-around in these facilities, they need to push you off orientation as to not lose money.

[rn/writer, RN]

Three days' orientation for a new grad tells you all you need to know about this facility. The fact that they aren't willing to give you a realistic new grad orientation tells you that they are primarily interested in "renting" your license and do not have your best interests at heart.

That doesn't mean it's a bad place (although it certainly does suggest that possibility). It only means it's a bad place for someone with a brand new license that she would like to hang on to.

Take the psych job, or keep looking.

[drmorton2b]

I am curious how is 11-7 (I'm not saying it would be easy to do) at an LTC Facility. Long-Term Unit, no sub acute, no rehab. Plus if there is only 1 nurse on for the whole floor what do you do if someone codes? Yes there are 99 y/o patients who are a Full Code.

I am trying like hell to remember how many nurses they had on over night at these places when I was in nursing school.