New Grad not sure about LTC

[Shayrey]

I'm a new grad and was just offered a position at a LTC-alzheimers/dementia floor. At first the DON said it would be on the subacute floor but all of a sudden that job got taken and the other position got thrown on the table. I have no experience in the healthcare industry and am very concerned about working with these types of patients. Can anyone tell me what to expect as far as responsibilities. The DON did not tell me much about this position because when I interviewed with her it was for the subacute unit. I need help deciding whether or not to take this position. Thank you any input would be greatly appreciated.

[cherubhipster]

I was in the same position last august. Now I've been working inltc and as a nurse for 9 months. It's been a good experience, and I've been grateful for the work when it's so hard to find a job. I've learned the most about time management, and facility politics. You can do the job, just keep in mind for yourself it's a learning experience and a stepping stone for bigger and better things.

[Shayrey]

Thanks for your advice and encouragement.

[cherubhipster]

Shayray, I reread your post again and I thought I should add that I also got hired to a locked alzheimers/dementia unit.

As far as specific responsibilities, your number one job will be to give out medication. You'll also be doing treatments (like dressing changes), chartig and documentation. Wig those kinds of residents you'll be monitoring behavior a lot to make it easier for the psychiatrist to accurately adjust their psych meds. You'll be trying to preven falls a lot... Mostly cause a resident has to go to the bathroom and All the cnas are busy with other patients, And mr or mrs so and so doesn't understand they have to wait because they have dementia. You'll spend a lot of time after med pass putting out small fires. The residents aren't acutely I'll with major diseases, but one has a cough And you have to get the order for robitussin, another one has a podiatry Appointment and needs arrangements to go out of the facility, or this one has a bruise and nobody knows where it come from so you hAve to facilitAte writing and collecting documentAtion from everyone.

I work the day shift, so if your on another shift there is variation, but this is generally what the day is like.

I hope this helps! If you have more questions you can pm me and ill help the best I can. :)