Residential childrens facility..

[Simply Complicated]

I'm submitting my resume this week for a per deim job in a residential childrens facility for emotionally distrubed kids. I think I have a pretty good chance of getting the job. It says they will except newer nurses. I have been a nurse 5 years, I did pediatric home care for about 6 months, and I currently work part time in the ICU.

Just wondering if I did get the job, does anyone know what to expect? I have heard from one person who used to work in a school with the same type children that she hated it, and it was very violent. I've always been intersted in psych nursing, and am planning on getting my Masters in Counseling eventually. Before I make the switch over to working permanently in psych I figured it would be smart to try it out per deim and get a feel for it. I'm pretty excited about this position, but this other nurse kinda scared me, lol

[evbella]

I have worked in a residential treatment facility for the past 10 months. I find that the majority of the kids are very nice and polite to nursing staff, they have had bad pasts that they are dealing with which is why there are with us. There are always going to be a couple that may get violent, but I find that the majority, atleast that I work with are not. I have not been threatened or attacked since I have worked with the kids. If you treat them with respect and understanding, you will usually get the same in return...it's all about good relationship building.

Good luck...and don't be afraid...these kids need care and compassion.

[diawc]

I have found in our facility that the first thing is to show no fear, nor act surprised. They will say things to get a rise. Act like you've heard/seen it all. Show respect but also show you are in charge. They will react to kindness, and compassion, but only after you earn their respect. Also, the facility should give you training in some non-violent ways to deal with any child who acts out. Enjoy!

[Tadams27]

I work in a residential treatment facility with kids as well, and I absolutely agree with everything diawc said. Usually I find, also, that the kids are nicer to the nurses than to other care workers because we are generally the one's providing care when they are sick/injured, and not the one's telling them to do their chores/homework/etc. I find it to be a very rewarding position!