Hello,

I just got a job in LTC, and I previously worked at a doctors office. I am very nervous and do not feel confident as a nurse in this new position. I am trying to get into the swing of things and properly manage my time, as well as refreshing my skills that I did not use at the clinic. All weekend, I have watched videos on wound care, trachs and peg tubes. I have also tried to memorize different geriatric meds. So far, to better organize my time, I. Have started a notebook and have spaced out boxes to check for each patient regarding specifics I need to do in order to ensure I am properly caring for them. So far, next to each bed, I have boxes that list if the patient receives an AM accucheck, has parameters that need to be checked for their meds, has an afternoon accucheck, needs their fluids thickened, and/or has wound care. What else would you suggest for me to do in order to better manage my time and help me through this first week in LTC?

Thank you so much for any tips that you use.

I have been working in LTC for 18 months now. I currently have 36 patients on the 3-11 shift. I mark which residents have 4 pm meds and which ones have 8 pm meds, so I right away know who I can skip. I also mark who has Accucheks and their times. I make a list of treatments that I have to do. For me, I have found that it is better to wait to do treatments until after the med pass is done unless it is a really easy treatment. It really just takes time for you to get comfortable with the residents and where they can be found (in their rooms, at activities, etc) and then you will find that you get a little faster each day! Don't be hard on yourself because everyday is different and you have to be able to adapt.

I have done long term care for 12 years. My suggestion to you is to learn your residents. Learn their in's and out's. Their preferences. Long term care is about the person, not the process. It is not about the amount of medicine you give, or if you give it on time. It is about ensuring the best for the person you care for. My suggestion is to be organized and efficient. It all depends on your shift, I have worked all of them. Days - Do your AM med pass. Assess patients while doing treatments. Chart. Do noon pass. Chart. Eve - Assess patients while doing treatments. Do supper pass. Chart. Do bedtime pass. Chart. Night - Assess patients while doing treatments. Do midnight pass. Chart. Do AM pass. Hope this helps. I wish you the best. Long term care is amazing!