LTC/SNF Nurse Making Jump to Acute Care: Advice?

[RNBearColumbus, BSN]

I've been working in LTC / SNF since becoming a LPN in 2005. I completed my RN this last spring, and just accepted a position at an acute care hospital.

So I'm asking those of you that my have done the same, (Or anyone that wants to answer) what advice would you give to a nurse making the same career move? Is there anything you wish you had known when going from LTC to Acute care?

[RNBearColumbus, BSN]

Anybody?

[HeySis, BSN, RN]

LTC was a good place to hone your assessment skills and you did this without any monitors. I'd say don't forget that. Acute care will have a lot more tech, but it can't replace eyes and hands on a patient and really listening and doing a thorough assessment.

You've also learned valuable time management skills, so when your first little while is crazy as you are adapting to a new environment, remind yourself it was that way when you started LTC and it will get better.

And lastly, while you have several years of nursing experience under your belt that will give you a "leg up" don't forget that the RN is a new role, so you can't and won't know everything. We have a saying in our PACU "the only scary nurse is one that won't ask questions"

Good Luck!

[RNBearColumbus, BSN]

That's awesome advice HeySis. Thank you. I admit to being excited about taking the next step in my career, but also a little terrified. . But I think that's a good thing. I know there will be a lot to learn, and I'm looking forward to learning it.

[Sour Lemon]

I've only seen one nurse struggle moving from SNF to acute care, and I've worked with a lot of them. I predict that you will do fine, although I have never worked in SNF myself.