New LVN grad with doubts about first job

[bluenyellow]

Hello all,I recently graduated as an LVN and landed a job with a pediatric home health agency. I'm working with a 2 year old who has cerebral palsy and a g tube. He is a sweet little boy and the family Is very helpful, but for some reason I don't think I'm enjoying this job as much as I should be. It is fairly easy, but I don't have much experience with children. I become anxious when he cries hysterically because I fear that something serious is wrong with him. I'm hoping that if I give it some time he will eventually become used to me. Does anyone have experience with pediatric HH? I guess my problem is managing my own anxiety with children since they are much different patients that adults or the elderly.

[lanorris21]

I also just started a pediatric home health job. I really like it compared to my last job at a nursing home, because you don't have to rush and you have plenty of time to give quality care and connect with the patients and their families. It's almost boring at times, but I'm not complaining! It was easier for me to care for kids since I have 2 little ones at home, but if you don't have much experience with children it can be a little awkward at first. Don't worry, you will get to know your patient very well after a few visits, and you will be able to determine what their cries mean, likes and dislikes, etc. And if your ever in doubt just ask the caregiver- nobody knows the child better than them. When he cries try to run through all the possibilities as to why: if his feeding is going, is he getting nauseous, does he have gas, is the rate too fast, does he need repositioning? He may need a clean diaper, or he could be uncomfortable, or just tired. I play kid songs on my phone for the little girl I care for or distract her with a toy or funny noise, these things always help. Good luck to you, hang in there!!