New Grad meets LTC

[nursingcares, RN]

Hello all,

I am just writing to ask how your shift usually goes in a LTC facility. I am a new grad and will be rehiring at the nursing home I worked at as a CNA; at least until I find a job in a hospital. I guess my questions would be:

-How does your shift normally go?

-What are the most common problems you have with residents?

-How much training did you receive?

-Any idea what I should ask if they want to know how much compensation I think I should receive? (I'm in Albuquerque, NM if that helps)

Thanks!

[WillowNMe]

The nurses at my facility did a lot of paperwork, handled emergencies and did a lot of med set ups. If you are an RN, you would be doing admitting and discharging, as well.

I have the option of getting hired as an RN at my work after I graduate in May as well... The largest problem I can see with getting hired from a CNA to a nurse would be glazing over training "because you've been there"... I would make sure to ask questions about any area or paperwork you are unfamiliar with, especially when it comes to emergencies, deaths, admitting and discharging... I would also be very careful not to fall back into your old rolls - IE: in an emergency.

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

We have 30 residents and the RN is in charge. Usually 4 CNAs except on nights.

I am also a new grad, and I had about 2 weeks orientation.

The med pass takes a long time at first, but now that I know the residents I can get it done in under 2 hours easily.

We also have acute stuff and IVs, etc...lots of mental health issues too.

I really enjoy LTC and my residents :)

[nursingcares, RN]

Thanks so much for your response. I worked at this LTC and also on the same floor as a CNA about a year ago and so I should know some of the residents but I'm sure the unit has changed. I'm pretty excited about starting my nursing career!

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

It is exciting (and scary) all in one! Congratulations. I just go one day at a time :)