ICF/MR job

[kynurse09]

I am considering applying for a position as an RN at an Intermediate Care Facility/Mental Retardation. Has anyone else out there worked at one of these. I know most of the patients at this facility have cerebral palsy and about 1/3 of them are MR, most are also in wheelchairs and have feeding/swallowing issues, but so far this is all I know. Any one have any experience or insights. What is the typical day or night shift like? Thanks for your help.

[nursekara513]

I work in a mental care facility. I wasnt sure about it at first, i always thought I wanted to be in a hospital. I decided to apply as it was closer to home then previous job and it had the hours I needed.

AND I ABSOULETLY LOVE MY JOB! This just feels like home to me. I feel important here, not just "another nurse". I love that I know my residents. I have a special bond with everyone I met. And they are always making me smile and laugh.

I have quite a bit of paperwork associated with my job, but ive began to like it. I take residents to doctor appointments, ER, etc. And instead of doing IVs, I draw blood :)

My day started out with coverage at 7. At my facility, nurses do not pass oral medications. The CMAs do. Nurses are in charge of G tubes and J tubes, and one diabetic with sliding scale. Coverage lasts till 8. This is done again at 12, 4 and HS. I do receive calls while I am working to "check on ....." something, like someone fell, someone has a scratch etc. I oversee alot of residents plans of care.

This is one REWARDING FEILD.

There is a quote that goes something like "youve never really helped someone until you helped someone that can never give anything back", working with ID/MR residents, you learn that is SO untrue. Severly intellectually disabled people can give back, even if its just a smile or holding hands. It'll melt your heart.