To run effectively, long-term care (LTC) facilities need a talented and dedicated nursing team. Do you think this career path could be right for you? Here’s an overview of a day in the life of a long-term care nurse.
Where Do Long-Term Care Nurses Work?
As the name suggests, long-term care nurses work with patients who require care for an extended period. Common placements include nursing homes and assisted-living facilities for the elderly. However, some long-term care nurses also provide in-home care. Others work in rehabilitation centers or in facilities for younger people with chronic conditions or disabilities.
What Are Typical Hours?
Patients in long-term care facilities require assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. And this includes holidays and weekends. Therefore, most long-term care nurses don’t have a nine-to-five job. Many facilities offer weekly schedules with five 8-hour shifts, three 12-hour shifts or a mix of the two. These may be day shifts, swing shifts, night shifts or a combination of shifts.
What Does a Day in the Life of a Long-Term Care Nurse Involve?
Long-term care nurses may be registered nurses (RNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), or certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Although all these nurses care for patients, specific duties vary. Here’s a brief overview.
Responsibilities of a Long-Term Care RN
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- Supervise LVNs/LPNs and CNAs
- Develop comprehensive care plans for patients
- Perform medical procedures such as enteral tube feedings or respiratory therapy
- Administer medications
Responsibilities of a Long-Term Care LVN/LPN
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- Care for and monitor patients under the supervision of an RN
- Take vital signs
- Administer medications
- Perform basic medical procedures including changing bandages and inserting catheters
- Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Responsibilities of a Long-Term Care CNA
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- Assist with ADLs (toileting, bathing, grooming, feeding, and mobility)
- Check and record vital signs
- Help RNs/LVNs/LPNs with medical procedures
- Document and report changes in patients’ conditions
How Much Money Do Long-Term Care Nurses Make?
As with daily responsibilities, pay rates differ based upon an individual’s training. Generally, RNs average $35 per hour, LVNs/LPNs average $23 per hour and CNAs average $14 per hour. Of course, an experienced nurse at any level may be able to negotiate a higher salary. In addition, some regions pay more or pay less depending on the cost of living in that area.
Are You Interested in Working as a Long-Term Care Nurse?
BOS Medical has immediate openings for long-term LVNs/LPNs and CNAs throughout the state of Georgia. We offer a variety of competitive benefits including daily pay, vacation pay and flexible scheduling as well as healthcare and dental coverage. Browse our available openings and begin your career as a long-term care nurse today!
