should a new LVN do LTC PRN

[kyra2000]

I have been an LVN since OCT 2013 and worked at a local hospital in med surge until recently. I have called around to area nursing homes and most say the same thing, we are hiring for PRN. Is it wise to work PRN (that is if I get hired) and do PRN. What if I don't get work for weeks at a time and expect me to know everything if they call me. I asked them if they would hire a new to LTC nurse for a PRN and how I would get trained. She said I would train for 3 days and thats it. What is your opinion on new lvns working PRN? and can you tell me other jobs I can apply for that take LVN's. I know dr. offices, home health, hospices, LTC... anything else.

Thanks,

[Fiona59]

It's how I started. Three shifts orientation to days, two to evenings and then sat and waited. Took three weeks for the first call. Yes, I struggled but I survived.

[kowenslpn]

I would apply and do PRN until you find something else. Also I don't know how those facilities work but they are always in need of aids so if there is not enough nurse shifts available you can ask about picking up hours an an aid. getting in PRN at one of them at least gives you something until you find a solid position, and one may come up at the facility and you could "bid" on it. I know a lot of nurses who actually like being PRN at numerous facilities to get the hours they want but maintain the flexibility in their schedule.

[NOADLS]

Working PRN is better than being unemployed. Who knows... maybe you'll eventually settle into a position there.

[MedChica]

Sometimes, you've gotta piece your experience together. LTC facilities work like this in my area, too. There usually aren't any F/T spots unless the facility is new or 'cleaning house'. There's always a need for PRNs. At the facility in which I work, PRN work is a steady source of income.

"What if I don't get work for weeks at a time and expect me to know everything if they call me."

One: That's why you have more than 1 PRN.

Two: If you're uncomfortable, don't work there. People will understand. We had a very experienced nurse - more experienced than I - at our facility who'd never done psych. She lasted about two weeks. We, her fellow coworkers, understood. No one judged or badmouthed her. In fact, those who worked with her, saw it coming. She was a 'classic' introvert (I'm introverted. I know 'my people' when I see them! LOL) and when I trained her, I spent a fair amount of time tackling her fears. Besides being new, you came from a different area of nursing. You shouldn't be expected to know everything. But, you have lots to contribute to the floor, I'm sure...for the same reason.

[MissPriss618]

I don't see why not! PRN is not all bad..For one, you have more flexibility. You can start out with one PRN position & if you aren't satisfied with the number of hours that you're receiving there, you can always apply for PRN @ a different facility & work there too when your schedule permits. I plan to work 2 PRN jobs in LTC until my school schedule eases up to where I can work just one regular FT job.