New grad/new job

1. I will be starting my first job in LTC setting. YaY! I have orientation (1 week) and then pretty much on my own-40 patients plus 2-4 CNAs. I will be in charge of new admits, meds, wound care, schedules... Oh My! It's a little nerve wrecking and intimidating to me. Does it get easier with time? 1week is kind of a short time to orient a new grad. I'm a newbie and basically wanna know the ins and outs. What should I be careful with, aware of, what should I have/take with me, etc...
   Thanks

   •  
2. 

   About jnurse21

   Joined: Jun '11; Posts: 81; Likes: 18
   Nursing; from US

   4 Comments

   Comment
3. 
   Mar 20, '13

   Short answer is No.. its really common sense. But I understand on your part you needed a job, any job.. the LTC on the other part, needed a warm body... that is until the regulators come a-knocking.
4. 
   Mar 20, '13

   I always found LTC just got easier in the sense my stress levels decreased as time eased on and becoming more comfortable with the floor but not ever easier in the physical/mental sense. I still left drained as a dead battery after ever shift even after 2 years l keeps ya in shape that's for sure. GL!
5. 
   Mar 21, '13

   It will get easier as you learn the residents, and which co-workers are there to work or just collect a paycheck.
   
   Sounds like you have a lot of responsiblity for such a short orientation. I've seen many new grads go into a tailspin from all the duties, so get ready for a wild ride. You'll get into your own routine, and I always felt working in LTC keeps your mind sharp with all the meds.
   
   Hope you like it.
6. 
   Mar 29, '13

   Thanks for the replies. 2nd day orientation today and all I can say it's not as bad as I thought it would be but most definitely organization is key. Med pass was not too bad just seemed like never-ending but with some speed and just learning residents-it will get better.

Must Read Topics