Wanting to come back to ltc

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I've been a LTC nurse for almost 4 years. I was one of the ones that thought if I got a job in a hospital that I would love it and everything would be perfect. Well, I did get a job in acute care on a med surg floor and I hate it! I mean I'm dreading going to work. The grass isn't always greener. I've realized my heart is in ltc. I'm really good with the residents, I can handle the patient load and I make amazing bonds with family and coworkers. Also working 12 hour nights in acute care has been hard on my body and my family. I've been told by my don and Executive director that I can come back to my old position, I've told them I'm interested in coming back. I've only been in acute care for maybe 3 months, I feel bad for wanting to quit so soon. My husband told me this would happen and I hate to say he is right. Would it be right to go back to ltc after being in acute care for a short period of time? I know for a fact I will never want to work in acute care after this.

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Since you know what you want, why not? Do what you want to do! The residents who have missed you will be happy to see you!

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Specializes in retired LTC.

Love you! Come on back to LTC. We need staff like you! :yes:

If I could, I'd reach through and give you a big hug!

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Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

I left long term care for home care....I lasted less than 6 months. Once you find where you belong, stay there. Welcome back!

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Specializes in LTC.

I tried acute care for a few weeks over ten years ago. Like you I thought it would be so wonderful. I hated everyday. I missed the relationship I have with my Residents and their families. I did however learn a lot, so I don't discount that experience, but I am pretty sure that acute care nursing is not for me. Don't waste any more time being unhappy. Life is too short for that. :)

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I know so many people are going to think I'm crazy. I complained about getting a job in a hospital and it was competitive to get in but my heart just isn't there. I worked ltc pharmacy for 4 years before going into ltc, I just think that is where I'm meant to be.

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3 months isn't long enough to judge. I would consider staying longer make sure it's not jitters from being in a new position vs. genuine desire to go back.

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

Three months in, you're barely getting your feet wet. That said, if LTC is where your heart is, you should go back. Life is too short to hate your work when you have choices! And our elders deserve nurses who love caring for them. Hugs!!

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You should try to get more acute care experience, You need to learn more more more more so you can take care of patients in LTC

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Specializes in Med/Surge, Psych, LTC, Home Health.

I say, really ask yourself why you wanted so badly to switch to acute care.. you had your reasons. Ask yourself if it isn't just jitters from being in a new place.

I went back to LTC about a month ago... got a job as a 3-11 supervisor and love it so far. Think after all the job hopping, I've found a home. :)

Anyhow... if you truly love and miss LTC, well come on back we're glad to have you! :)

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