MDS training?

Talino · Oct 17, 2002

'ever tried learning how to ride a bicycle in a day and not having to ride one again in a couple of weeks?

On-the-job hands-on MDS training is highly recommended. Since you only work part-time, familiarize yourself with the basics of the MDS assessments first. Without it, no training seminars will afford a candid knowledge of the MDS in one session.

Take your employer's offer for a start, then brush up on your skills later on with seminars if you choose.

If you do prefer to do it on your own first, try this site...

http://www.thenih.org/seminars_long_term_care.html

... check on seminars on the left, then choose your state. They usually give out MDS related seminars. Or you can call the 800 number below the page.

AANAC (American Assn. of Nurse Assm't Coordinators) gives on-line training (more $$$ if non-member)

http://www.aanac.org/education/courses.asp

Good Luck! The position requires extensive knowledge but a very worthy asset and the salary range? -->

Shevalove · Oct 17, 2002

Thanks so much.. I am definately going to take advantage of my emloyers training!

Nursenan0 · Oct 17, 2002

Hi,

I have to agree with the earlier reply....nothing beats hands on with MDS. I recently applied and received a position in MDS. I started hands on and then went to my first beginner seminar. The seminar was interesting and very informative but I have learned much more, faster working with the other MDS nurse and retiring coordinator. I've learned enough I'm inline for her position when it comes open in 2 weeks :eek: Wish me luck!!!

Nursenan

Shevalove · Oct 18, 2002

Good Luck NursenanO!!! What type of nursing did you previously do and how long? If you don't mind me asking!

Nursenan0 · Oct 18, 2002

I dont mind at all :) I have worked in long term care since I was 17 in one position or another...as afloor nurse, charge nurse,an STNA, a cook, and dietary supervisor. So all together thats about 17 years. I have tried a few other fields, like...ER, and Home Health. LTC is my calling. I love it!!! What fields have you worked in and for how long if you dont mind sharing?

Nursenan

Shevalove · Oct 18, 2002

I don't mind at all either. And thank you for sharing. I am working Med/Surg right now part-time (Just graduated in June ) and I am just starting a part-time position in LTC. I have worked LTC as a CNA prior to graduating and enjoy LTC very much. My DON asked if I would be interested in learning MDS and I have to say that greatly influenced my decision to take the position. I am not happy at all in MED/SURG...I knew I wouldn't be,but felt I needed the experience.

kathi yudin · Nov 17, 2002

:kiss If there is an organization there called cahf.. they offer mds classes.. try and find it in the computer and they can give you classes and all..it is one of the best classes out there..good luck.. i started as mds coordinator and am now don...

CapeCodMermaid, RN · Nov 18, 2002

Hi. MassPro in Massachusetts offers MDS classes. Hate the things myself...pretty mindless stuff. What in the world is an STNA?? We don't have those in the Bay State

kathi yudin · Nov 18, 2002

long term care is a great area to concentrate in.. there is so much to be learned by the elderly.. mds is really not mindless..you have to know it to enjoy it.. think about it as the financial end of facilities.. without this there is no money..sooo.. it really is qutie important.. don't have a clue as to what stna is!!

Nursenan0 · Nov 18, 2002

Hi..

STNA is a state tested nurses aide...they use to just call them cna's here but now with all the classes and testing that goes with the position the name has changed.

Nursenan

Shevalove · Nov 18, 2002

Thanks Mermaid..I will look into it