I desperately need some advice. After graduation my plans was to work in acute care. I felt like having a strong foundation in medsurg would make me a better nurse in the long-run. Unfortunately when, I graduated, Stmarys was more interested in BSN's rather then ASN's, so I ended my employment there and accepted employment in LTC on a rehab unit. I care for 10-15 pts, mostly post hips, fx, total knees. I was afraid that I would lose my skills working in LTC, but so far that hasn't been the case. My issue is: I was offered a position in hospital last week. I've accepted the postion, but I really enjoying working for my current employer. I'd be taking a 9000 a year paycut working at the hospital, but i really want the experience! Right now I'm the sole income in my family and not really sure if I'm making the right decision financially. Im afraid that if I stay in LTC, I'll be stuck. I've heard from other nurses, once you've been in LTC for awhile, it's harder to get into a hospital, due to lack of acute care experience. Is this true? What would u do if you were me? Stay ( where I'm mentally and financially happy) or go to acute Care for the experience ( which is priceless) ?
I believe that in any nursing setting, you learn as much as you want to learn. Take it a step beyond work, and google information regarding the any of the multiple diseases/ syndromes you encounter in ltc. Or for that matter, that you encounter in any setting. Yes, ltc is quite downplayed by many others, and that's been around for ages. And I wish that would die down. Many people say it based on assumptions, and not on their own experience. Good luck!
ilove
184 Posts
Definietely hospital. but if you can get a job somehwere else take it. its very hard to find one in today's world. So you cherish the job