[inspired1]

I just passed my boards for PN and was wondering what everyone thinks is the best place to start out as an LPN....I do plan on going on for my RN but for now I really need to work.Any suggestions will be appreciated.

[smak60]

hi,, I passed the boards at the end of Feb. I just started job shadowing at an assisted living community. I get 16.50. Its slower paced. I have had around 38 residents. Some self med. Its a beautiful place. You have more time to be able to get to know the residents. They are all so sweet. So I have heard starting out at an assisted living is the way to go for a new LPN. Or if you are lucky...a hospital....so...if I was to go to a long term care facility..it would be on nights. The LTC that I checked out even paid less...than the assisted living..???? go figure!! Anyway...goodluck to you!!

[pagandeva2000]

Most people have plans, but start at the first place that hires them. If hospitals still use LPNs in your area, I think that is the best way to go. If not, then, assisted living is better, I think. I am working in a hospital clinic, and am actually considering finding an assisted living place to work on weekends. I do hear it is nice.

[TheCommuter]

As a new nurse, you should work in an area that piques your interest level.

All of my instructors were urging me to obtain 1 to 3 years of hospital med/surg experience before branching out into different areas, but I didn't take their advice. I simply do not like the fast pace of the acute care hospital environment. I chose to start at a nursing home, and LTC is where I've been ever since. I've accepted PRN work in a psychiatric hospital to gain experience in a facility other than a nursing home, but I personally like the slower pace of long term care.

[kat7ap]

It really depends what your long term goals are. Some nurses know they don't want to work in a hospital and would rather do LTC or assisted living. I knew I was interested in working in a hospital and applied at several different hospitals but was not hired. I needed work and income right away so I started at a nursing home, which in many places pays LPNs a better hourly wage than hospitals. After a year working LTC and not feeling satisfied, I then applied and got a hospital job working in postpartum. I love my speciality now and can't imagine going any where else except maybe the NICU, some day when I become an RN

[uraqt2]

First off congrats on passing your exam.I have often times heard that at least the first year should be in med. surg. however I personally think that it's a matter of what you're interests are. There are many opportunities out there and I've always suggested to people with this same question go with something that peaks your interest and something you'll enjoy. Nursing is a very stressful career but at the same time a very fulfilling career. Good luck in your adventures.

[inspired1]

Thanks alot guys for all your input I'm thinking LTC since in my area its hard for LPN's to get into the hospital as a new nurse.I'm also thinking about the 11-7 shift...Any of you work LTC on the 11-7 shift? How do you like it? Thanks in advance.

[TheCommuter]

Originally Posted by inspired1

I'm also thinking about the 11-7 shift...Any of you work LTC on the 11-7 shift? How do you like it? Thanks in advance.

Since I do not like dealing with family members or visitors, I actually enjoyed the 11-7 shift. I was able to work in a quiet setting with no managers breathing down my neck and no visitors to constantly interrupt me.

[happynewLPN]

I just accepted my first LPN position in a local LTCF, and I'm very excited. I think it's going to be great. I figure any experience with meds and procedures is great. I'll be finished with my RN this December.