Is it time to apply for a D.O.N position?

I've been a LTC RN for 15 years! I'm having trouble finding a job, and don't know what to do Hospitals around here look down on us LTC nurses.
are you crazy? Do you know what that entails? research this decision before making a move. Good luck.

Hey, that's true no matter where you go---hospitals tend to think we work LTC because we can't make it anywhere else. HAH!! Little do they know.....Don't ever let anyone look down on you! As an LTC nurse, you have eveloped immeasurable insight, as well as a set of skills that are much more easily transferable to other settings than anyone who hasn't done it can possibly understand. I've gone from LTC to acute to assisted living and back to LTC again, and even though I'm currently under-employed due to cutbacks at the nursing facility where I work, I know I can do any nursing job I put my mind to. So can you. Good luck!

Thanks I know that nurses that come from Hospitals to LTC usually leave within a week!! I'm just so frustrated I've been unemployed for 2 months!!

Don't kid yourself, LTC is hard work, heavy patient load and lots of new regs to learn. If this is something you are serious about and really want to get into this field pm me and I will gladly give you some advice as i was a DON for a 120 bed facility. but, think about it hard, it is not easy ! good luck!

I know it's not easy, I just don't know what to do trying to get some opinions.

Have you considered teaching? The CNA courses where I live require the instructor have LTC experience rather than hospital experience. Unlike being a CI, you aren't required to have a BSN either.

I agree. Look at other options first. You have been working hard all these years. Dont give unless its your choice only.

Do you bring fresh ideas to the table? Do you know about billing and compliance with the regulatory agencies? Do you wish to be held accountable for nursing standards. Are you in an environment in which is strong and you can succeed in learning a new role, or are you walking into a mess that needs someone to be held accountable for?. How is your turnover? I bet it's high, can you enact changes to stop this or will high turnover continue, how much power do you really wield to enact changes that you'd like... Do you have a plan, and will others support it?Will the staff see you as a leader eventually, or will you face power struggles with some? Will you have to "clean house?" And then will you be held accountable for short staffing in the process?Much to think about my friend, I"ve been in management, and it has no perks for me to sell you on. Just food for thought to think of, to make sure your possible leap will be best for you.