Assisted living to med surge

[sistasoul]

I am going back to a medical surgical unit after being out of a hospital environment since 2015. Worked a lot in assisted living since then. So completely bored. It is the hospital I worked at before. I am really excited even in this day of Covid. I took care of many sick and dying patients of Covid in the assisted living so this is not my first go round with that. I will be getting a 12-week orientation which is more training than I got as a new grad. I am probably crazy to go back to the hospital, but I love to learn new things and to actually take care of people rather than just feel like I am basically babysitting. Though I do love my senior friends. Has anyone done this? Gone back to med surge after a long break? 

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

I didn't take a break but about four and a half years ago I transitioned from a long term care facility to med surge and then into critical care. You will be fine I'm sure, especially given the orientation that you are going to get. I hope that your hospital is sufficiently staffed in order to ensure you actually get all of that orientation time. Best wishes on your transition back to hospital medicine. I know that many people are looking to leave bedside in the hospitals these days, but I still very much enjoy my job and the patient care opportunities I have. Good luck!