I have been in LTC as a charge nurse for 6 years. I have been approached about taking a DON position at our sister facility. It's small (40 beds) and at this time well staffed. Can I handle this? Yes, I know floor nursing. Yes, I have been through several states surveys, but all the other stuff I have left to the DON. I want to give it a shot, but I understand this is a serious responsibility. My current director would be available for training and questions. What do you think? What are some things I should consider before accepting?
Schmoo I was disappointed that you got cold feet, but I am sure you did what was right for you at this time. You need to work on that self confidence of yours, we need good people for DON and you sound like you would be up to the challenge. If offered again, reconsider- unless you dont have the support from home- that is VERY important.
BTW if offered again and chances are you will at some point, ask for a company cellphone. When I started as ADON, my DON insisted that the Adm give me one (they pay for all calls, upkeep etc). It is indispensable and if I had to pay for all the calls myself....well I would be out a nice chunk...
I am sorry I didn't take. I did let them know if this DON doesn't work out, I am interested. I have a lot of support at home. My husband has been laid off so this was perfect timing. But alas, I was my own worst enemy.
I saw your posts up on All Nurses and I am very interested in working in P-town. I am a Florida LPN with 4 years of experience, some of that being in LTC. I will contact the Mass BON for endorsement info if given the opportunity. Are there still positions available? What is the pay scale? Is it year round? Thank you for your time!
Specializes in LTC since 1972, team leader, supervisor,.
We are licensed for 304 but only currently have 232 residents--one hall closed down on one neighborhood and one hall converted for Hospice made into private rooms but currently no one there (these halls were emptied about 6 years ago due to staffing issues). I have applied for the DON position here and I do not know if I am ready or not. I have worked here since 1972 have been a CNA, LPN, House Supervisior on PMs and Nocs and currently the inservice director. The only problem I see is she is leaving on the 11th of December and that does not leave very much time to train anyone for the position. I have my interview on Thursday.
I know she tracks the decubs, incidents, and falls for QA. We do not have an ADON but there are 4 unit coordinators-1 for each neighborhood who run them. She hires the nurses, CNAs are hired by someone else. She give disciplines out that are written by the teamleaders and coordinators. She writes the plans of correction when the state finds something wrong. She is a mentor to staff and listens to both professional and personal problems. She does alot--I just do not know everything she does
I have been offered a similar opportunity. My ADM. has offered to send me through School for the few classes I need to complete my RN training. The ADM is also the owner. I have worked for this Facility for 13 years. I have been doing the MDS's & the state has complimented me repeatedly on my RAPS & care plans. The Current DON will be promoted to the ADM. so that my Boss may retire. The ADM. wants me to now work as the ADON to learn the ropes. I really want to do this.Has anyone else become the DON in this manner?
Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN
3,181 Posts
Don't look back, next time you will be prepared.