Should a 'old dog' change?

Bird2 · Feb 12, 2006

I can understand why the thought of change would be so scary to you. I also have only worked LTC. But, it sounds as though this is your chance to spread your wings. Would the LTC let you go part time or flexi while you try this change? Then at least you would feel some security in case the new job was not what you expected.

SweetOldWorld, BSN, RN · Feb 12, 2006

Go for it! It sounds like a wonderful opportunity for you with ample training provided. Your fear is normal but shouldn't stop you from pursuing new challenges.

live4today, RN · Feb 12, 2006

I don't believe it's good to be fearful of making change if that change is an improvement from what you are doing now. Just go for it! It's good to have a certain amount of fear when changing things we've become used to for so long...just don't allow that fear to keep you from being courageous enough to grow in your life. :nurse:

PANurseRN1 · Feb 12, 2006

Why another thread about "old dog" nurses (even though in this one you're referring to yourself)? That's a pejorative term and is insulting to some of us who have been nurses for many years.

garciadiego · Feb 12, 2006

Thanks all for replying, and those who will continue-I think I should go for it.

PANurse- I know some very intelligent and competent 'old dogs' as well as some very ignorant and ineffective pups. Its good to not take things to seriously.

1Tulip · Feb 13, 2006

I'm going back after 15 years away from the bedside. Getting LOTS of inservice and classes (needed the CEU's anyway and the hospital PAYS me to attend. It's great. Physically I'm keeping up with the younger nurses and then some.

If I can do it, I don't doubt you can too.

steelcityrn, RN · Feb 13, 2006

I say give it a go!

ceecel.dee, MSN, RN · Feb 13, 2006

Anyone who says "I'm bored to tears" should try something new. Good luck!

Signed,

Old Dog doing new tricks.

LadyJRN · Feb 13, 2006

I'm 50 years old, in great shape and I will have to work until I die.I have worked in LTC for 15 years and at this point in my career I'm bored to tears with what Im doing-everday its basically the same- pass a endless amount of meds, do the treatments, babysit the nurses aids,paper work,etc.
Our facility has recently opened up a unit that they call a Emergency Dept. and also added 6 acute beds-now there is a opprotunity for me to work in the new dept, the hospital is taking applicants.
The problem is that although I'm bored with what I'm doing,LTC, I'm also afraid to make a change-to transfer to this more skilled aspect of nursing-I guess I'm afraid I'll screw up. The hospital is providing training where I would work at the city hospital down town with a perceptor in the ER for 3 months and I will also take a bunch of classes and inservices.
Anyone got any advice how to overcome this fear of making a change in the type of nursing I've been doing, or advice on how to be content with LTC nursing?
I am a manager in LTC; you would be my first choice for a new Emergency Department. You have lots of experience. You have worked LTC for many years, do you really think that your wouldn't be rehired in an instant if you decided you didn't care for the new job? Trust me, with your experience you can get your old job back.
Is this new department at the same facility where you work now? It sounds facinating! I would try the new job. Take the training and try out the job. I am sure you will succeed and start looking forward to going to work again.
I don't know where you live, but I work for a really nice facility and there aren't many nurses beating down the doors for a job in LTC. I am sure you can go back and do what you're doing now if your don't like the new job. Spread you wings and fly! You deserve it after so many years doing the same thing.
JMHO

AtlantaRN, RN · Feb 13, 2006

if your cheese has moved, go and find new cheese...

read "who moved my cheese," it's a great book and it can really open your eyes about what you consider important...

I've got an interview at a spinal rehab hospital tomorrow, and i've been at my hospital for 7 yrs now...i've found i'm no longer happy with what I do there (and i've worked all over), so it's time to change

linda

allnurses Guide · Feb 13, 2006

Go for it! Sounds like they are giving plenty of training and backup to get ready for it,

I went back to school after more than 20 years for my masters, and frankly, my grades were never this good as an undergrad. Something to be said for us old dogs. :lol2: