Is transitioning from sub acute to LTC too far a step back

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Hello. I have been working on my first RN job in sub acute for 10 months. There are LTC units as well but I really don't like floating to them and mostly stay on my sub acute unit. My hope is to move into an acute setting and I am applying for work in hospitals etc and in the next few years hope to start a FNP program. Recently though a job opportunity has come up in a very prestigious facility as a float between two LTC units. I have some friends who work there and compared to my outdated, inflexible and overall unpleasant and much lower paying position this place offers everything and much more including a huge pay increase, yearly bonuses as well as annual pay increase. I'm torn between getting this job and continuing to apply to acute settings until I get what I like or continuing just focusing on getting into acute care. I feel like if I stay too long with out acute care experience my chance may never come. On the other hand while I love my patients I hate the facility where I work from the rude DON to the outdated everything including medical equipment.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

Hmmm. My two cents:

LTC and SubAcute IS like hospital nursing currently; patients are sicker, and they are being transitioned into the community faster going right into short term Sub-Acute or into a LTC bed.

I don't know what area you are from, however, SubAcute/LTC is NOT looked down upon in my area. :no:

Your place may be outdated; yet you know how to assess and utilize what you need, making yourself a resourceful nurse-keep that in mind as a POSITIVE for your nursing experience and practice.

If you want a hospital job, cast your net wide and continue looking; if this facility is of interest to you, what are they're offering besides the earnings? Does the pt population expand your practice? Opportunities for leadership and mentoring, as well as education?

If the benefits to your practice are greater, if will be up to you to decide, I don't think it will be incorrect either.

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Besides the great pay I will be charging myself as there is no evening supervisor or charge nurse. Also I will be one of the few RNs so I will be performing some duties that LPNs can't sign off as well as responding to emergency situations in assisted living near by. Additionally, I will have an opportunity to work with electronic charting something I cant do at my place. I forgot to mention that one the units where I will float is rehab

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

Sounds like a promising opportunity that gives you experience to transition ANYWHERE. :yes:

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