PDN in assisted living?

[smartnurse1982]

How does that work?

I just checked out the job openings on my agency's website and about 80% of the open cases are seniors in assisted living facilities.

Lots of these cases are vent,trach,and tube feeds.

Anyone have experience with this?

I guess i just do not understand why these types of cases are not in skilled nursing facilities vs ALF.

[caliotter3]

I've worked some cases in ALF. The answer is money. An individual with money chooses an ALF as an acceptable alternative to what they perceive the LTC facilities to be. I worked as a secondary (agency) nurse there for short term. Have noticed a FT position listed at the same place, however, I noted that it remained open for literally months, so I decided to stay away. Nobody around here leaves a FT position vacant if it is even remotely tolerable, so there must be something wrong with the place that I didn't see while I was there.

[smartnurse1982]

Thanks.

Who is responsible for meds?

You or the med tech?

Did the AFL let you go in the med cart and pull up meds?

What about back up emergency equipment and supplies?

Who is responsible for that?

I kind of like the idea of being a PDN in a ALF,as i will have some contact with staff that i do not get in the home settin.

[caliotter3]

I felt like I was kind of "tolerated". I was there for night shift and really didn't see the regular staff until the morning. I was kind of a "babysitter", as I was told if I saw a need for any PRN meds, change of condition, etc., I was to inform the staff on duty. The RN in charge was way on the other side of the building and I never did see her, I only saw some of the aides that worked there. I agree with you about it looking like a good work setting. I was really interested in getting on at the place. I would have liked that position, except I did not seem to fit the bill as to having something in common with the rest of the staff if you know what I am trying to say. I've had my fill of working in facilities where I am the "odd man out". Now if one fits the demographic that is the majority of the staff, it probably is a very good gig.

[Nibbles1]

I did it for three years while I was going to nursing school. The med aide/LPN did the meds. I helped with laundry and baths. I assisted them to and from the dining area. Kept them company. It was literally stress free. If anything happened, I would call for the nurse or 911.