New lpn. Should I take the camp nurse job if offered?

Specialties Camp

Published

I am a new LPN and im thinking about a camp nurse job opportunity for an all girls camp. I applied, who knows if i would even get it. But I am nervous about being the only nurse on call for the whole summer. what are some good tips? is this even a god idea for me? what are some of the daily issues i would come across? is it intense?do they stock up on every thing i need? Im nervous ill come across something I'm not prepared for so I plan on doing a little research on typical camping injuries and things that could go wrong with kids. Also what happens if a serious emergency occurs?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

If a serious emergency occurs, you dial 911. Be certain that you can work independently per your state's scope of practice/nurse practice act as most LPN's must work under the direction of an RN, APN, MD, DO,or DDS (even if through signed treatment protocols/orders and oversight by telephone). Some states have a very wide scope of practice for LPNs (like TX) while others are very narrow. Not so sure I'd want to be the only LPN on site for a camp as a new grad. I'm an experienced former EMT and now pediatric nurse and not sure I'd take that job.

Peruse this forum for some of the suggestions for preparation and issues that may come up. Also I'd recommend that you have personal liability/malpractice insurance and that you would be covered in such a situation.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Home Health (PDN), Camp Nursing.

JustBeachy is right there can be practice concerns. Even if those are sorted, I have serious concerns. New grads can work as camp nurses. However they need to be in a supportive enviroment where they can be monitored and ask questions. I am an LPN with seven years expearence, five of them in pediatrics, three of them at camp. I am also an EMT with nine years of 911 expearence, and frankly I would be cautious looking at that job. As a new grad I think you need to find a better staffed, camp where you can learn from more expearenced nurses. Speak carefully with the director if ou get a call back and get information, however be careful, this is the time of year where camps are rushing to hire, make sure they take the time to address your concerns.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I agree with the previous two posters. With your lack of experience it's a risk to not only the campers/staff but also yourself if anything were to happen. Camps/businesses will typically do what it takes to keep the doors open, and that might mean placing the blame on you and your license depending on the situation. So just make sure you are ready for issues/problems that might occur during camp (emergencies, illness, fractures, etc.).

Up Vote Up Vote ×

expearence?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Pediatric Private Duty; Camp Nursing.

I would run far away from that offer. Find a place where you will have at least one experienced mentor, you'd be doing yourself, and those campers, a favor. There are lots of jobs still available, even now this late in the year.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Although I am sure the job offer situation is over, I would still like to add my 2 cents here. In my opinion, no one should ever be a camp nurse without at least one year of pediatric nursing, preferably in a large hospital setting, under their belt. Children are not miniature adults. They will need different things than you can learn in any adult setting, even ER/ICU, or in school. Children need to feel that you are confident. That is what calms them. Good luck in whatever you have chosen for now!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Seen your other post about job but it would not let me comment. I know interim healthcare hires lpns with iv certification. My friend works there and likes it. Pay it good an set your own hours.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment