DON position-Career Moves

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Hello all,

I have been an RN for 7 years. I will be graduating next month with my BSN. I've been in LTC for the last 2 1/2 years. I currently am the Staff Development Coordinator/Infection Control Nurse. I have been approached by my administrator about stepping up and taking the position of DON when our current DON leaves this summer. Our building has over 130 beds and involved in many programs. I will have full support of the administrators, corporate office and nurse managers. It is a great opportunity but I think I am nervous about the new level of responsibility. Any advice????

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I have taken the DON role in my building...i love it!! It is stressful but i have a great team made up of nurses i have worked with for years! My adon is also a friend of mine and it gives us each other to lean on when times get rough..i was terrified of taking the position but it was something i always wanted to do..if i had let fear stop me i would of regretted it. I am very lucky to have a wonderful corporate team that can help me if i need it.

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Specializes in retired LTC.

A question - is your facility doing well? That is to say, it's not a train wreck ready to happen so that's why the current DON is leaving???

Otherwise, it sounds like a good opportunity to advance your career and I'd say, "go for it".

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Thank you for your reply. I have backing of corporate and the current management team. My administrator is the best and is willing to help me through my transition.

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My current DON and ADON are in school to be NPs. Their school schedule is getting too hectic for the demands of the position. Our building is a doing very well and she will be their to help me transition. Thanks for your reply.

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Specializes in retired LTC.

OP - good luck with your new endeavor! Sounds good!

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