New grad RN transitioning from LTC

[heathert_kc]

I worked as a LPN for 2.5 years in ltc; it was a beautiful new facility and relatively cushy compared to most nursing homes (ratio 16-18 pt per nurse on day/evening, 1:32-34 on noc, with 4-5 medicare at the most, only one gt, rarely one IV) or so I am told, I have never been a nurse at any other snf.

Finished my RN bridge in December and despite the last 3 months of applying everywhere my only more acute job offer I have had is a small free standing rehab hospital on the acute unit. I have not yet starting, job offer is pending my background check and physical. But I was told there is a great deal of online simulations and then a minium of two weeks training on the floor, but that could be extended if I needed. There are 14 beds on the unit if I remember correctly, and they are hiring an extra nurse so that there will be 2 on day and night. I will be working noc 12hr shifts.

I am really nervous, it is a short stay facility with most patients in and out in 10-20 days. That means lots of admissions, and I am told they have pretty high acuity: trachs, complex drsg changes, g-tubes, IVs, etc. Any advice for making this successful transition in to a faster paced environment?? I would really appreciate it.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I worked in LTC as an LVN for four years before becoming an RN and landing a job at a rehab hospital. Although you do not yet realize it, you have more clinical knowledge that you realize. Also, your time management skills are probably good because you are accustomed to managing the care of 18 residents.

I wouldn't worry about making the transition too much. Just take it as it comes and ask questions along the way. Good luck to you!

[heathert_kc]

Thanks for the input, I appreciate it and I hope you are right!! Either way I am up for the challenge, just a bit nerve racking to start something new.