Is LTC a Career Buster?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Nurse Beth,

I graduated with a BSN and am currently 9 months in working in a SNF. It's hard work but I love my job and it's so rewarding! However, I'm concerned as I progress in my time there it may delay/hinder my chances as I wish to eventually move on into other specialties...

Is LTC really a career buster?

Any sincere advice is greatly appreciated!! ?
Thank you!

Dear Concerned,

Congratulations on graduating and on your first job! You described it perfectly- hard work and rewarding ?

You don't say what other specialties interest you, but If you plan to work in acute care, then at some point you need to transition. Skilled nursing gives you some of the skill sets you need for acute care, but not all. The acuity of patients in acute care is higher, and the patient turnover means you are admitting and discharging patients throughout your shift.

So, in answer to your question, yes, you can be pigeonholed in skilled nursing and it's wise to broaden your nursing practice.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!

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