From LTC to Acute Care

[wtcc_student]

Hello all. I've been an RN for 10 years, an LPN for 1 before that, and a CNA for 2 before that. And it has all been in LTC. I started out in a nursing home as a CNA, continued there after getting my LPN while attending RN school. Well, when I graduated, they offered me really good pay and other perks to stay on. So I did, as the 3-11 supervisor. I love LTC, and have worked most aspects of it. From floor nurse to most all administrative positions. Most recently, I was the DON for a home health and hospice agency. I am now returning to school to get my MSN. I would love to ultimately become a NP, but that's down the road. The biggest drawback I have is I've never done hospital nursing. I applied at a local hospital last week, and 2 nurse managers have called for interviews. I'd really like to try it, just to get into more acute type care. But I'll admit, it terrifies me. My assessment skills are fine, and I'm super organized. But I haven't been on a M/S floor since nursing school, and am really nervous about it. At least when you're a new grad, they expect you to act new, but not with 10 years "RN experience". Anyone else made a similar transition, know someone who did, or have words of advice? Any help greatly appreciated!

[SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN]

No advice, just wishing you luck.

Luck!

:)

[uptoRNin04]

I have had a somewhat similar experience. I worked LTC for 25 years as an LPN and loved it. I then went back to school to get my RN, after all those years!!! I decided to do a year in memd/surg and hated every miinute of it. I left that to go to an outpt surgery center and decided after a year and a half there that I didn't go back to school for this kind of experience. I went back to a different hospital, this one is so much better. I went back to a Progressive care area for a few months and then transfered to MICU. There have been times when I have thought I was crazy. I seem to be doing this backwards. Most nurses my age go from most intense to easier as they get my age. To tell you the truth, I really really like what I am doing. MICU is much different than anything I have done before but I am learning so much. Yes, they will expect you to perform like an experienced nurse, more so than a new grad. But they will not expect you to do something you have never done before. Just be sure to be honest and tell them you have not done something. You will have assessment skills, delegation skills, critical thinking skills and people skills the new grads don't have. You won't be sorry. We are never to old or out of school to long to learn !!!!!! There will be good days and bad days as usual. Good Luck to You !!!!!

[cholli]

you will not have a problem with the transition, LTC gives you such a comprehensive exposure to Meds, disorders, organizational and communication skills. I worked LTC for many years as an LPN and RN and now teach 1st year nursing that includes med/surg. From what I have observed, I could make the transition to a staff nurse, but I like teaching and honestly- in M/S, it is difficult to follow up as you don't often have a client for more than 1 or 2 days. good luck

[teeituptom, BSN, RN]

Good luck, difficult change to make. Im sure.