Dialysis or LTC?

[DierkyBrewster]

Hey everyone! I'm an LPN currently working at a LTC facility. I'm very "comfortable" in my current job, meaning I have my routine down and no surprises throw me off too bad, I can do my job very efficiently. I've been here for about 2 years. I have an interview next week with a local dialysis center, and taking this job makes me nervous... Mostly because I'm afraid of change. I'm so used to my day to day in LTC (although a hectic, time crunched day it is) that I'm afraid I won't do well in a different field.

Does anyone have any advice on comparing the 2 careers? Should I take the dialysis job over the LTC job if it is offers? My current job is about a 15 minute commute, the dialysis job I would have to commute roughly 30 minutes (rural areas... Gag) And I know my LTC is most likely the higher paying of the two... But has no 401k and very expensive insurance. The dialysis job has amazing benefits....I just don't know what to do.

[Lexis13]

Im currently an LPN at a LTC for over 4 years and finally moving on to work as a correctional nurse once my background check comes through. (Also my new job would be a 30 min drive compared to 10 mins for current one) I also dnt like change but if the benefits are important to you & less pay wont affect you much I say go for it.

There might not be much more to learn at the LTC so working at the dialysis center just gives you more to add to your resume.

Are you planning to go back to school ?

[sallyrnrrt, ADN, RN]

Try something new....you just might love it....and in today's market, great benefits, are nothing to shake off...I personally would go for the new opportunity.....

[nutella, MSN, RN]

You need to check it out in person I think.

Chronic dialysis is busy for nurses. Depending on how well the clinic is run and how the staff works together it can be a great experience or not. Generally speaking chronic dialysis requires some comfort with machines and technology, the need to be organized and "fast" because you are operating on a schedule. As a LPN you are limited though - check out what you can do.

I recommend that once you go to the interview to schedule shadowing for at least half the day so you see how it is.