Taking a leap to a new field

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I had been working in LTC for a few years but recently got hired as a public health nurse. Although I can't wait for this field, I'm nervous that I will "lose" my nursing skills. I won't be responsible for wounds, IV's, trachs, meds, ect.. I can't wait for the change, I just hope that I can keep my job in this field! I don't think I was ever cut out for hospital nursing and I'm jumping into this without any med/surg experience as a new RN. I DID always picture myself behind a desk or in this capacity so I know it's the right thing for me- I just have my fears.

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Good luck in the new role!! Could you maybe get a PRN position somewhere to keep up your skills? Maybe home health?

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Good luck in the new role!! Could you maybe get a PRN position somewhere to keep up your skills? Maybe home health?

Yeah I'm already signed up with 2 HH agencies but they want "experience" and don't send me anywhere.. LOVE the job prospects around here...

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Specializes in neurology, cardiology, ED.

Congratulations! Sounds like a great opportunity!

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Your story sounds very familiar. I left the hospital for PH also. I am afraid that most of your skills will get rusty and second the opinion of looking for a per diem position somewhere to keep them up in case PH is not what you wanted after all. PH is wonderful and rewarding but has alot of issues also. ...By the way, I am now back in the hospital and many of my friends from PH have pink slips. :crying2:

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Specializes in Psych, LTC, Acute Care.

Good Luck to you Change!!!! Sounds like an exciting career. Can you stay at your LTC facility and work PRN? Thats what I am doing so that I can get extra money.

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