Stay in LTC or accept new position?

[dekagirlsRN]

As I've previously posted, I am a new grad and have been working in LTC for approx. 6 months. Not really loving it (too many pts, never-ending med pass, etc) but I have been learning a lot, even starting to become attached to a few residents. A couple of months ago, I applied at a peds office for RN position, was turned down because they hired from within (it's owned by a hospital), but they said they were very impressed and would call me if something opens up, and they did!!

Now I don't know what to do. I'm thinking about accepting this new position, but is it the best career move for me? Wondering if a future employer would be more interested in a nurse who worked in LTC or dr. office? Will it look like I bounce around too much? My ideal job would be in a hospital setting (but everyone knows they're not hiring us new grads!). I'm so torn, I don't know what to do. Any advice?

[hamdi, LPN, LVN]

working as RN in long term, for 2 years .since i finished nursing school.

i applyed all the hospital they dont hire someone with no experienced, thats why iam still in the LTC.

[SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN]

It depends on you. WHich would you prefer? There IS something to be said for working in an office. Hours that end, no med pass, etc.

Which would you prefer?

[caliotter3]

It would be easier to find another position in LTC than to find another position in an office. If all seems inviting, I would go for the office job. Perhaps you can stay on at the facility on an on call or per diem basis, just to keep your foot in the door.

[esthomprn]

I think you should do what makes you happy. If working at a clinic is going to make you happy then you should go for it. But if you eventually want to work at a hospital, it might be best that you stay at the LTC. When you work at a clinic, you lose those skills of time management, starting IV's, passing meds, assessment, critically thinking etc. If it was me, I would stay at the LTC if I knew I wanted to work in a hospital so that I can have those skills.

[bugvw70]

I know I'm a little late on this one, but you implied that the clinic is owned by a hospital, right? If so, then it might actually aid you in getting to that hospital job. You may be able to get preference in future hospital openings as a current employee. I am an LPN currently and went from working as a HUC in the hospital to working as an LPN in the hospital system's affiliated LTC facility because I keep my seniority (I've been a nurse for about 18 months but I have 3.5 years seniority) and when I do go back ofr my RN I will have an easier time as a current employee with seniority finding a hospital position.