Should I be an Assistant DON at 6 months?

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Dear Nurse Beth,

Hello. I have been an RN since the beginning of June 2022. I work at a small 25-bed critical access hospital. Our Assistant Director of Nursing is retiring in November. Several CNAs have encouraged me to apply for the job. The responsibilities include: Unit Supervisor for our 13-bed Intermittent Swing Bed unit, quality assurance, infection control, employee health, writing policies & procedures, and nursing education.

I do not believe that any other RNs at my facility are interested in the position. I would love this role. However, I am concerned about my lack of experience. I have been employed at this hospital for 8 years as a CNA. So, everybody knows me. I have a strong passion and dedication for wanting to provide physical, mental/emotional, and spiritual care to the patients on the ISB unit. My question is: How long should I be a nurse before moving into administration? Thank you.

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2 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Concerned,

Do not take the job in November. I understand it's tempting, but there will be other opportunities for you. You would be doing yourself a disservice.

Wait 2-5 years before leaving the bedside for a leadership role. If possible, gain experience in at least 1 other hospital, a non-critical access. You will learn so much and it will help you to be well-rounded. 

Meanwhile, look into advancing your education so that when the time comes, you'll be well qualified for the right role.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
On 7/23/2022 at 11:40 AM, Nurse Beth said:

I have a strong passion and dedication for wanting to provide physical, mental/emotional, and spiritual care to the patients on the ISB unit.

OP, then this is where you should remain for now - at the bedside, honing your RN skills. I am sure as a longtime CNA in the same facility you would do much better in the ADON role than a new grad who just walked into the place for the first time six months ago, but you'd be doing yourself a disservice to take on the administrative role at this point. 

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