Long Term Acute Care Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

A Long Term Acute Care Registered Nurse (LTAC RN) specializes in providing comprehensive and extended care to patients with complex medical conditions who require longer hospital stays. These nurses play a critical role in managing patients' health and facilitating their transition from acute care settings to long-term recovery or home care.

Essential Job Functions:

LTAC RNs deliver specialized care to

Education

To become an LTAC RN, aspiring nurses must complete a diploma, associate degree in nursing (ADN), or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. BSN programs provide more comprehensive education and better equip nurses for the demands of this specialty.

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

After completing nursing education, individuals need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their RN licensure. Gaining experience in acute care or medical-surgical nursing is beneficial before transitioning into LTAC nursing, as it provides a solid foundation for understanding complex patient needs.

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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A stethoscope held in one hand

Skills

Successful Staff and Travel LTAC RNs possess excellent critical thinking skills to assess patients' conditions and provide appropriate care. Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with patients, families and healthcare teams. Compassion and empathy are crucial when dealing with patients facing prolonged medical challenges.

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1.5k Ratings

Responsibilities

LTAC RNs are responsible for closely monitoring patients, managing medications, administering treatments and coordinating care plans. They advocate for patients' needs, educate patients and families about medical conditions and help patients navigate the recovery process.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Long Term Acute Care Nurse
$1,712-2,326/week

The average salary for a Long Term Acute Care Nurse is $2,040.45 per week.

Last updated on April 26, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming an LTAC RN offers several advantages. It provides the opportunity to develop deep relationships with patients and contribute significantly to their recovery journey. The demand for skilled LTAC nurses is expected to grow, ensuring job opportunities and stability. Additionally, LTAC nursing allows for a broader range of medical experiences.

However, challenges exist in this specialty. Caring for patients with complex

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Long Term Acute Care Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care

  • Lowville, NY
  • Cross Country Nurses
  • 5x8 hrs, Days

$3,300/week

Posted 7 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care

  • Lowville, NY
  • PHP
  • 3x12 hrs, Evenings

$3,132/week

Posted 10 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care

  • Lowville, NY
  • Cross Country Nurses
  • 3x12 hrs, Evenings

$2,960/week

Posted 1 day ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Long Term Acute Care

  • Columbia, MO
  • Advantis Medical
  • 4x12 hrs
  • Referral Bonus

$2,826/week

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