When to apply for promotion in LTC

[mharrah]

I've been an RN for 5 years but only worked in LTC for two months. I really like this new place, and I can see there are many opportunities for advancement. Currently I know of openings for unit manager and nurse practice educator. How soon is too soon to apply or express interest in advancing? I don't want to be laughed at for applying too soon or not taken seriously. But my mom is DON at a different facility, and she recently told me she had worked her way up to ADON within two years of becoming an RN.

[SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN]

Ask. See what they say.

[Nascar nurse, ASN, RN]

Ask. See what they say.

Yep, the worse they can say is No.

Others make the mistake of thinking some experience entitles them to jump into a DON position, but a unit manager or staff development position would allow you to gain some LTC management experience but yet still have people above you to help you learn and guide you. I'd say go for it.

[Moogie]

I think the nurse practice educator position sounds like a lot more fun than unit manager, but go where your interests and talents lie.