Alzheimer's and dementia SNF interview

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Specializes in GENERAL.

Hi All,

I am a BSN RN that graduated inn December, have had a few interviews, and applied for over 300 jobs, yet im still unemployed. I decided to broaden the range in the jobs that I have been applying to. I recently applied to a SNF for dementia and Alzheimers pts. I have had some experience with these type of patients during my clinicals and been very successful, so I am hoping to learn more and be able to better care for these pts. This interview is the third specialty that I have applied to and received an interview. I feel like as a new grad it is hard to say that you know what your specialty is when you have not had enough exposure to different ones, that said i am excited about this interview. i want to be open. Can anyone out there tell me what the interview questions might be like? I have a interview on Monday. To this point I have a passion for the ER and the NICU. I care for the elderly as well so Im very sympathetic to this job opening. Please help with interview advice or stories from this specialty.

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Specializes in retired LTC.

I can think of a scenario question - how would you encourage a pt who is refusing to ..................(fill in the blank, like take a shower, take meds, etc).

Good luck.

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Specializes in GENERAL.
I can think of a scenario question - how would you encourage a pt who is refusing to ..................(fill in the blank, like take a shower, take meds, etc).

Good luck.

It went well. She asked me a few questions and I elaborated on quite a bit. She showed me around and said I should hear from her in a few days.

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Specializes in retired LTC.

Again, wishing you luck. LTC does have its good times.

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Specializes in GENERAL.
Again wishing you luck. LTC does have its good times.[/quote']

I got an offer I'm trying to see if it will work for my family. It's part time but they want me to work some days when other nurses call in. I said I can sometimes but not always. It sounds like they want me to cover a lot and I can't do that.

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Specializes in Medical Surgical.

As the new nurse on the block, you will be required to do lots of covering for others and get the worst shifts. If you turn things down because you don't like the hours, your going to have a hard time getting work anywhere. Not trying to be mean, just real.

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Specializes in GENERAL.
As the new nurse on the block you will be required to do lots of covering for others and get the worst shifts. If you turn things down because you don't like the hours, your going to have a hard time getting work anywhere. Not trying to be mean, just real.[/quote']

I hear you, I don't think I explained enough. . I interviewed for part time and they offered full time. I interviewed for part time so I can work elsewhere. It's not a matter of getting the worst shifts or covering, I don't mind but If I'm volunteering and working elsewhere I can't work do that and be on call 24 hours a day.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

I hear you, I don't think I explained enough. . I interviewed for part time and they offered full time. I interviewed for part time so I can work elsewhere. It's not a matter of getting the worst shifts or covering, I don't mind but If I'm volunteering and working elsewhere I can't work do that and be on call 24 hours a day.

I suggest you work full time at this time during a shortage of options for new grads. This job has a great chance in getting you great NURSING experience.

The nursing path is a very interesting one....you may end up where your passion lies ER or NICU, however this position will help you get there...you may not see it, but it will-I know I do!

Congrats and sending positive vibes on your success! :)

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Specializes in GENERAL.

Maybe you're right. Ok will keep you posted. I should hear back from them.

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If you think that the nurses you met during your interview seem to be "handling" working there, meaning that nobody is crying or shouting or looking like they are ill from working there eg too skinny and pained-looking (not kidding), if they actually look up when you walk by them and smile or wave "hi" to you as you are being shown around... it's a good sign.

If you feel wary, do not ignore your senses.

Also know that that ER or PICU may never come your way. Actually this even could be the last interview you get for a long time. Nursing is crappy now, you have to try to roll the dice and consider if there is any realistic way you can fit in with a job that is offered you.

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Specializes in GENERAL.

Hi All,

Thank you for your advice. I wound up not taking the SNF job but was holding out for the acute care job. After 5 interviews and 10 months after passing boards. I got the call the same day as my last interview. Of course I tweaked my interview attitude but God was on my side all the way! I'm elated.

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