New grad RN seeking first nursing job

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Specializes in Med/surg tele, home health, travel.

I recently interviewed for an RN position on nights at a LTC facility on a skilled nursing unit. The shift is 6p-6a. 6p-10p I would have 23 patients and work with a LPN. From 10p-6a I would be the ONLY nurse on the floor and in charge of 45 patients. The only other nurse in the building is on the 2nd floor and is also a NEW GRAD. I'm thinking this job is not a good idea. Yes, there's a 30 day orientation, but I am feeling apprehensive about this. They want to do a 2nd interview with me next week, but I'm having second thoughts...:unsure:

I have only been an RN for a month and job searching has been so frustrating. I interviewed for a prison job and this job and that's it. I couldn't tell you how many jobs I have applied for!!!

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Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

45 residents over night on a long term unit seems very doable. You shouldn't be giving many meds on that shift. Go for your second interview. What can it hurt?

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It does seem like a lot, but I don't think you will get better when it comes to LTC.

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45 residents isn't too bad as long as you have good help from CNAs...and there is on call staff willing to answer questions.

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Specializes in Med/surg tele, home health, travel.

I keep getting mixed responses. Some RNs I spoke to told me it's a dangerous situation for a new graduate. I'm not sure I will go back for a 2nd interview. If I'm not feeling right about it then I'm not going to even bother.

I have another interview today for LTC and an interview tomorrow for a school nurse position for a 1:1 with a disabled student. I am also waiting to hear a response from the corrections job I interviewed for approximately 2 weeks ago. I should be hearing something this week per HR. I received 2 emails from the VA that I met their job qualifications and that I would possibly be contacted for interview, and I am waiting for my home care provider number to come through for non-agency private RN work for Ohio Waiver Home Care Program.

I am trying to be patient. It seems as though everything is slow-going, but the ball is finally rolling. I appreciate the support I have been receiving on this website! :nurse:

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Is it just you? Or are there care aides there to help you as well? I have been in charge of 45+ residents as an LPN with two care aides by my side and never ran into issues from it. LTC, so there usually aren't any acute patients.

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Specializes in Med/surg tele, home health, travel.

I believe the DON said there's 4-5 aides on the unit. It just seems like a lot of responsibility for a new graduate from the start.

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Personally I don't think that it is dangerous, that is how most facilities are that I interviewed with. Several of my nursing school friends work on such units and love it.

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Specializes in LTC, Memory loss, PDN.

most any job will be challenging for a new grad

i'm impressed by 30 days orientation

i believe it shows the facility is willing to spend money

on properly preparing staff and wants their staff to succeed

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