imjstme

So, the CMS guidelines for DON state that the DON may serve as the charge nurse when the average daily occupancy is 60 or lower. What does this even mean? I've served as charge many times and out census is higher than 60. It's never been brought to me as an issue though. Also, the facility must have an RN for 8 "consecutive hours" 7 days a week... What about clocking out for lunch? Work 6-10, clock our for lunch and then work 1030 -2...Wouldn't that be non-consecutive? The person I consult about rules of the state will never give me a clear answer on anything. So, I'm trying to find answers elsewhere.

I would just like everyone's opinion on what you think makes a good/great DON in LTC

I realize this is an old post, but I had to comment. It hurts my heart to read that you think LTC is lame. I've worked in LTC for two years now. I absolutely love it. However, because of mentality like yours I have asked my husband and family to stop telling people that I'm a nurse. When I tell them where I work I get asked for clarification, " you're an lpn or an rn? " I'm an rn with a bachelors degree tyvm I won't say that I don't have regular panic attacks thinking that I need some sort of acute care experience (I went into LTC right out of school) but then I tell myself that LTC needs good nurses.. And I am good at what I do. There are several areas of nursing that could be considered "lame" Those areas still need dedicated nurses.. And less judgement. As far as the pay goes... I make $5 more an hour than the medsurg nurses at my local hospital.

I have been offered the Don position at my facility and one of my problems is that the current Don Works 9 to 5. I have a one hour commute and I'm actually used to working 6-2. I was just curious if there was anything that said I HAD to work 9 to 5 or could I do 7-3, or 8-4...as long as it's 8hrs during the day.