Help! Need some insight!

[NicoleJeanSmith]

Hello all! I just applied for a position at our local health department. I am a new RN (for about a year now). I have been a LPN for 7 years. I have done LTC/SNF my whole nursing career. I loved it but I jumped on the opportunity for what I hope is better hours (no nights, weekends or holidays) and less stress (these patients go home after you see them and they aren't actively dying, even though we are all actively dying as we speak, anyways you get it). I am looking for any insight on what exactly the duties of a RN are at a health department. I love the idea of being able to give more patient teaching and just more structure to my day, immunizations, WIC, etc. also are exciting to be apart of in my community. Please share any experiences good or bad. Also any tips will be appreciated. Thanks loves!

[DWillaman72]

If you are like me you will love it. I took my first position in a non-medical ETOH and drug detox that is geared for the indigent. The key is to know a little bit about everything and have confidence or some people will eat you alive. For health department you will be doing lots of TB tests, immunizations, and teaching. Find alternative ways to communicate (depending on your area). As far as nursing skills they will be useless (i.e. foley, IV's), maybe some dressing changes. Public health is much more rewarding than working LTC, just my opinon. Trust me there is something to be said for weekends off, and less stress. Good Luck!