Job offer for Charge RN - no exp! Help!

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Specializes in Acute Care - Cardiology.

Hi all -

I am a relatively new RN (2 yrs) with ER experience. Even though it's only been two years, I feel as though I have accomplished a great deal in that short amount of time. Anyway, I put in an application at a local DaVita Dialysis clinic (any insight on them would be appreciated too) thinking I would be considered for actually taking care of the patients, as this is an area of nursing I would like to learn more about. However, I was called today for an interview for a Charge RN position. As it turns out, LVN's do the actual patient care... and RNs are used for more managerial type positions. I am concerned, of course, that I am not qualified for this position, but I mainly just wanted to learn from some of you... what this job is like. I know I still have the interview to take part in, but I just wanted some input from those that have been there and do this everyday.

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I have worked for Davita for almost 7 years... great place I must say. Larger units use charge nurses as you stated, although I am charge and work the floor, many times alone.

With your ER experience, you should do fine, except you need to research renal issues... you don't give lasix anymore for fluid overload! :chuckle

I would request however that you be given at least a 3-6 week crash course under another charge nurse before you begin. Otherwise.. you won't have a clue. I also can't believe they won't give you more training first! Our unit, you couldn't be charge until you WORKED there at least 1 year! You might ask... pm me if you want other info...

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Specializes in Acute Care - Cardiology.

Hey there -

Thanks for the info. Well after the interview, I learned that I will have 6 mo of orientation to the machines, job, etc. That makes me feel better. They have also offered me the position... over someone with 5 yrs dialysis exp. That makes me feel pretty honored... but anyway, I have a dilemma.

I have also been offered a PICU position with a great hospital. I am having a hard time deciding between the two, but I think the PICU is more my speed. Why don't you SELL me on dialysis... describe your day to me and tell me why you like it so much... and dont like parts of it. Thanks!! :)

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Sorry...no can do! I am after 6.5 years thinking of leaving dialysis. Although I really truly believe DaVita is a great company, the physically demanding job I have is too much on my 40 year old body!

I am going to pm you a question...

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this is probable too late but here goes.

I love dialysis because I can utilize my skills with cardiac care, pulmonary care and nephro care with a physician who appreciates this.

I am expected to help with the difficult sticks and evaluate possible stenosis.

Our unit comes with piped in Bicarb and Acid so we don't have to carry 5 gallon jugs with fluid in them. I take call on the weekends but never have to work past 8p.m.

I usually don't do poop patrol but will if necessary. It is an infection control issue in a closed unit with patients only separated by a curtain.

I must understand the lab results and when to notify the MD so my critical thinking skills are always a plus.

In PACU (which I have also worked) you may get a good physician and you might not. At least in dialysis you usually work with one or two who know and respect you. In Texas where I work, the state regs determine nurse to patient ratios and are strictly followed. These are SAFE RATIOS.

In PACU they may or may not be followed.

So here are the pros and cons as I see them.

Feel free to pm me for particular info.

Hey there -

Thanks for the info. Well after the interview, I learned that I will have 6 mo of orientation to the machines, job, etc. That makes me feel better. They have also offered me the position... over someone with 5 yrs dialysis exp. That makes me feel pretty honored... but anyway, I have a dilemma.

I have also been offered a PICU position with a great hospital. I am having a hard time deciding between the two, but I think the PICU is more my speed. Why don't you SELL me on dialysis... describe your day to me and tell me why you like it so much... and dont like parts of it. Thanks!! :)

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