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Chronic vent patients aren't that hard to care for. You just need to understand how things work and what to do in an emergency. A decent preceptor and some decent reference materials should be able to teach you that during those 2-4 weeks of orientation.
I'd be curious about the ratio, pay, support staff, etc. I certainly would not dismiss the job outright based on the meager information you provided.
Sorry for the meager info. I have reason to believe that people I know may be around here. The max ratio is 6 pt:1 nurse, and we get an aide to ourselves. Full time RT available. All on vents, some chronic and some weaning. From what I can find out about 1/2 are total care.
I say go for it. To have 24/hr RT avail is great. The ratio doesn't seem bad at all. Remember team work. Show respect to the nursing assistant you are working with, and show that you are not above doing "dirty" work as some people call it. This will go a long way.
No way am I above doing "dirty work" in fact I will be their team-mate. I was a CNA for years so I have a lot of respect for the work they do. Thanks for all of the advice and if anyone else has anything to add I would really appreciate. I have been hearing mixed things about this position.
I say go for it. To have 24/hr RT avail is great. The ratio doesn't seem bad at all. Remember team work. Show respect to the nursing assistant you are working with, and show that you are not above doing "dirty" work as some people call it. This will go a long way.
I can't agree more! Treat all people with dignity. You will do great!! Good luck!!
*4!#6
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SNF w/vented pts, first job, 2 -4weeks orientation.