New grad on Night Shift

[RNLola035]

So I'm a new grad up for a night shift position at a SNF. But because it's night shift I would have to work as the supervisor. Isn't this wrong? Has anyone done this before and what was it like?

[karenrenoosy]

I have been an RN now for 12 years and I have totally been there. I can say that if for any reason you are not comfortable with your new position, to let your supervisor know! Will you get any type of orientation or work under a preceptor for a bit? One thing about the SNF unit, most, and I stress most, are not acutely ill as they would be on a med-surg floor, but if I were to start as a new grad, I believe I would start on the SNF unit. Good Luck to you! You will be great, just ask lots of questions if needed and remember only you can protect your license :)

[Lenee925]

Take the experience as a supervisor and excel at it my friend :)

[nyteshade, BSN]

You didn't mention much about the work enviroment, or facility itself (in terms of size), but generally the answer is no, you shouldn't have a new grad acting as a shift supervisor or building supervisor depending on type or size of the facility.

However, (and this might be confusing) you are expected as a RN (regardless of exp) to supervise the direct staff (CNAs, LPNs) working with you. RNs are expected in LTC to be responsible for the floor in general. This concept might be overwhelming to the new grad.

Will you have someone to help train you, such as another RN? Are other RNs going to be present at night? Are you working the floor, and acting as building supervisor? Who are your resources at night? It sounds like you will be the only one for the building at night. In the end, you need to feel comfortable, and safe guard your license...cause hun, those in charge may tell you otherwise.

[achot chavi]

If you feel uncomfortable with it, then it is probably wrong, ask for more orientation or work evenings for a while till you feel more comfortable

Your question shows me that you are a responsible person and it is good that you ask.

[evilolive, BSN, RN]

I was kind of thrown into a supervisor position when I finished my orientation, since I was the only RN working nights on Tues-Fri. Most of the time my responsibilities included taking call-outs, trying to find coverage, and trying my best to deal with personnel issues that arise. I think you would do okay! As long as you have a supportive management staff that you could rely on to call at night if you have a question, you should be good. I called my ADON SO many times at 2-4am to ask for help, that she probably lost a great deal of sleep. Thankfully she was always willing to assist me and direct me in my decision making.

Plus, night shift makes easing into the nursing world a bit easier, although it does have its quirks.

Best of luck, from a fellow-new grad (one year in)

[karmen87]

Hi RNLola35... I know this is off topic, but I just wanted to ask you about the calstate program. I was in your exact position. I failed one of the classes and have to repeat it. I was just wondering when you retook it. I was thinking of taking the class with my other rotation, but instructors recommend to take it in the fall of 3rd year. I just wanted to know what you did and when you retook it.

[karmen87]

Hi RNLola35... I know this is off topic, but I just wanted to ask you about the calstate program. I was in your exact position. I failed one of the classes and have to repeat it. I was just wondering when you retook it. I was thinking of taking the class with my other rotation, but instructors recommend to take it in the fall of 3rd year. I just wanted to know what you did and when you retook it.