Is LTC to ER nursing possible?

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I am a registered nurse with my BSN. I have worked in LTC, in the same facility, for the past 5 years, since I passed my NCLEX. I started as a floor nurse, was promoted to a nurse manager, and then again as the quality nurse. I was still required to perform staff nurse duties often and feel like I have enough skills/knowledge to work in the ER. I left the facility to focus full time on finding a new job. I did leave with a great recommendation letter from my DON. My dream is to work in the ER. I know I will have a lot to learn but I know I can do it. Is working in the ER after only LTC experience a pipe dream? It is possible? Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks!

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It is definitely possible! I know a great ER Nurse who came from a LTC facility. Apply at the local ER and dive I head first! :)

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That makes me feel a lot better! Here I go!!

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Specializes in ER, Trauma, Med-Surg/Tele, LTC.

I started in LTC and work in ER now.

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Yes I think it is possible. Depends upon what type of ER, community hospital? Level 1 trauma center? ER nursing is like no other. Even the trauma becomes somewhat routine. If you're confident in your skills, you'll do well. Be prepared for ACLS. Good luck and pursue your dream!

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I started by applying to the community hospital. There is a Level 1 trauma center with an opening as well. It's been a few days and haven't heard back from the community hospital. Trying to be patient and keeping my fingers crossed!

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Hey dont worry... I did that too, I worked in LTC for 7 yrs, and Now I work in a level I trauma center in big community center. Now you are going to learn a lot....

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I only worked psych nursing for 3 years (which I loved, by the way), but always had this longing to work in the ER for a season (and a big question mark on the back of my head: "can I do this???"). I applied for a job in the same hospital a few months ago, and during the interview, the assistant manager, who is AWESOME, said: "we hire new grads. If a new grad can do this, you can do this!" I've been working in the ER now for 4 1/2 months and I love it. My biggest challenges are: time management, not having even 5 minutes that I can eat something, and starting IVs.

Good luck! You can do this too!!!

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Specializes in Emergency Room.

Definitely. I was LTC as an LPN before I got my RN and went to ER. No worries :)

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

Can be done, 1st job was a SNF/LTC made a quick stop at med-surg to get my foot in the door at the hospital and now am in the ER

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Starting in med-surg next week! I am on my way! Thank you so much everyone for the support!!!

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