MDS NURSE AS DON????

[texasheat]

Our DON has mentioned that she might take some medical leave d/t her father diagnosed with cancer, but is uncertain due to her father's lack of interest in chemotherapy. But our ADON is an LVN and our ADM mentioned very loosely that since no one else was available that maybe "WE" could cover her while she was away. Since I know the ADON is not a take charge person and we don't know for how long she will decide to stay out, I'm getting a little spooked about being able to handle both DON and MDS especially with the upcoming changes! Have any of you managed MDS and DON???

[Bella'sMyBaby]

As an MDS Coordinator, I would NOT want the liability. Let the ADON take charge; that's what the facility is paying her for......

[edhcinc]

Hi. You did not say the number of beds at your facility. Neither did you state how long the situation might last.

Tis a terrible idea, under almost any circumstances, but could work for a SHORT while if the LVN is trained in completing the MDS 2 and 3 and there another RN floating around somewhere to assist in an emergency situation. If you have never been a DN, forget it. It is far too much liability, and neither job will be done properly. Good luck in working with your administrator to devise a workable plan!!

[susanthomas1954]

If you are part of a corporation, the company can have the regional nurse in until your DON comes back. If you are not part of a corporation, there are agencies with DON's for temp service. Don't do this, you will sacrifice too much.