Working in a SNF

Mzkikalvn · Jul 21, 2013

So I recently started working at a SNF I've been a LVN for 2 yrs working at a detox center I made the change to gain more experience as a nurse. So last week I did my orientation at the SNF I must say I was overwhelmed with the heavy load of work they do it's tons of med passing accue checks and giving insulin then documentation weekly summaries I thought for a second is this what I want?? So i held myself together because I need to gain more experience which will help me in the future furthering my career to becoming a RN , So I need some advice do stay there at the SNF or go back to a clinical setting where I felt like I wasn't learning much

RN&mom · Jul 21, 2013

I think any time you start a new job you will feel overwhelmed, the question is, is the facility safe? How many patients do you have? What other support staff are there for those same pts (CNA's, med tech's, other nurses)? Do you have other nurse in the building you can go to if you need help, how long is your orientation? Is your nurse manager/don available in a pinch? I am a charge nurse at an awesome LTC/SNF facility and I can say while I wish our orientations for experienced nurses were longer, everything else is awesome and we always have someone available if needed. I thought I was going to get 3 admissions a couple weeks ago on a Sunday and I had another nurse offer to come in early if need be and my DON said call me & I'll come right over, plus the nurse on the other unit offered to help! I had more help than I could have used!!! It's not always that good but we do pull together pretty good, that's what you need, look for management that doesn't mind getting their hands dirty. If they just want to sit behind a desk it makes it harder when things get rough (and things do get crazy at times, that's why I love it though)! Good luck. I hope it works out for you. I love my job and you will gain a lot of skills.

scrublifenurse10, LPN · Jul 21, 2013

I would stay where you are. I myself have been an LPN for 3 1/2 years in the clinical office setting and feel as though my actual nurse skill set is slim. I just gave my 2-week notice on Friday, as I too have accepted a position in LTC to gain a better skill set and eventually return to an RN program. My sister has been in LTC for 24 years and she has told me that it can be quite overwhelming for the first few months, and then one day you suddenly realize that you've developed a comfortable work flow. Just hang in there and keep looking forward to your goals as a nurse!!

mvm2 · Jul 21, 2013

I think if you can keep going with the SNF, and just give yourself time to get use to it, it will be better for you in the long run. If you are going for a RN it will look better on your resume. Remember how hard it can be to get a RN position. If they see that you are working in a SNF it is a gold star for you. SNF work is not easy work but it will get you more prepared and your skills will be where they need to be to get a great RN position.

Mzkikalvn · Jul 21, 2013

Thank you all for the advice!!