Rusty Clinical Skills

[QueenMangin, BSN, RN]

I graduated with my ADN 5 years ago. I did 1.5 years on a Tele floor and 8 months in home health. For the past 2.5 years, I've been working in a residential facility with a specialty population of adolescents with eating disorders. I pass meds and use therapeutic communication, run groups, etc but basically use almost none of my clinical skills. I am thinking of trying to get back to more clinical setting even though it makes me a little anxious and my previous experiences were not enjoyable. I am thinking an LTC might be better because even though the patient ratio sounds insane, there is a little more stability in the residents i.e. they are longer term. I'm just not sure which direction to go. Should I take a refresher course ($$$) or rely on hospital orientation? And what exactly should I expect from a hospital for a new hire? I am interested in getting my MSN but not sure what discipline. I enjoy communication, education, and assessing more. I'm in a weird space where I'm not a new grad but I feel I could benefit from a transition program. I think I'd really do well if I could shadow/precept with another nurse to get my confidence back up. And transitioning into a different area of nursing, like hospice or palliative care, it seems like everyone prefers a certificate or experience. Any advice or suggestions?

[Isakolistic]

If you are thinking LTC, I don't think you'll have too much trouble finding a position somewhere. You might not use as many clinical skills, but you will develop great time management and get to spend time with the same residents, which it sounds like you would enjoy. If there are a few LTC/rehab or other rehab facilities around, they might be a good transitional place to work before you find a hospital position. Personally, I wouldn't take a refresher course; if you have a few years of nursing experience, a hospital/otherwise orientation should be a good start to prepare you to work in that setting.