Looking for a mentor for an RPN

[jaimierpn]

Hi Everyone!

Would anyone recommend or guide me to finding a nursing mentor? I have been having a rough patch these past few weeks and hoping to find someone for support and guidance. There was an instance where I was contemplating if this career was really for me but after some self reflection I've realized, with feedback from fellow employees who've witnessed my ethics, professionalism and authentic care for my residents (LTC) they have assured me that I was meant for this and very good at what I do.

We have had a change in management with absolutely zero support for registered staff. I feel that my time at LTC has come to an end and I am ready for new skills and challenges but having such a hard time finding work. I got my current job by completing my consolidation hours there and had the best managers who supported me the whole way to employment. I have been an RPN for over a year.

I've begun to sound like a debbie-downer which is so unlike me. Any advice, even hard truths are welcomed. I feel like I am capable of so much more and my current position has become more administrative than actual clinical care which is not the direction I want to go in my career.

Any guidance will be valuable to me. Thank you guys!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Moved to our Canadian forum.

[dishes, BSN, RN]

Working in acute care, rehab or home care may give you the opportunity to focus on clinical care. Do you know any nurses who work these areas? Do their employers hire RPNs as casuals? Employers don't necessarily advertise casual positions and outside applicants often don't know that they are available. Also, managers are sometimes willing to hire based on a staff member's recommendations. If you know anyone working outside of LTC, ask them if they can put in a good word to their manager for you. If you can find a casual position at another work place and continue to work at the LTC until a permanent position becomes available, you will be on your way to finding a career path that suits you.

[Missha]

Jaimie, did you end up leaving the LTC? I feel like we might be working at the same one as the DOC and ADOC both changed from the ones the hired me. I used to be able to go up to the previous management for anything and now I honestly don't even know who the new ones are. There is a lot of paperwork to do, especially with the new medi system and because I'm casual and only pick up a few shifts a month, I'm completely unfamiliar with it. I can't even say I'm familiar with the old system yet either. Management always has their doors closed, I asked to see the new DOC to discuss having a refresher and she ended up just leaving at the end of the say without a word. It makes me a little uncomfortable to work there, I'm scared something will happen with the lack of support or I'll forget to do something because I didn't know about it.

[jaimierpn]

Well it sounds too familiar. This LTC is in Richmond Hill and it seems like we do work at the same place. You can email me at [email protected] this is a safer method than on a public post. We wouldn't want retaliation. I've been there for 1.5 years and have trained a few casuals. Maybe you've seen me. I usually work downstairs opposite the locked unit. I can help!

[vintage_RN, BSN, RN]

I was an RPN for 3 years, am now an RN...not that it really makes a difference. If you need any guidance or support....I'm not sure what I can offer but I am happy to try to help.

[jaimierpn]

Hi!

I was looking for a mentor when I was deciding whether to take the bridge or specialize in RPN. Since then I've been accepted into Centennial College this sept. I've also been hired at Saint Elizabeth while working at the LTC. im sure you would be a great resource for me while in school and making the switch to RN. I'll add you to my friends list.