Confused

I can understand your frustration but try not to be discouraged. Go ahead and continue to look to for work as an LPN, don't give up! You did not go to college to become a LPN to not use the license . Theres nothing wrong with you going back for RN, but that does not mean you can't work as a LPN. The great thing about nursing is the opportunites for flexibility.So you can do both work and school. I have a cousin that lives in Albany, NY and it took her a while (4 months) to find work last year after she graduated for LPN. Stay encouraged!

Sorry Ancy1 I should have mentioned I am not a nurse yet; so I dont have any special tips that might help you impress your DON. However, I know that you will be nervous but try to be confident! Make sure that you are very attentive (takes notes if possible) and show your willingness to learn. These characteristics helps with any job! Trust yourself, you got this. GOOD LUCK!

Good Luck to you! LTC is a challeging job. Its frustrating in the beginning. Try to focus on the routine of the job. Learning the policies and procedure will come with time so don't stress with that in the beginning. Let us know how it does.

Carry a notepad with you and write notes. Also, ask for blank copies of their forms and place them in paper protectors. Maybe even get a loose leaf book to carry them in, with samples of how to fill them out (such as use the name Jane Doe). This can help when you are in a pinch because you have to know how to fill them out. Make sure that you carry the important extensions and pager numbers to reach supervisors, physicians, etc... Do a scavenger hunt to know where supplies are as well. I use a drug digest rather than carry a drug guide because they are easier to carry with you. Here is the website: https://subscribe.haymarketmedia.com/npr/?form=renew. I purchased the one for the Nurse Practitioner...believe me it is not complicated, but it has a nice summary of what the drugs are, indications, instructions for use, etc... and you get a new one every 4 months. It has updates on new drugs as well. I have not worked as an LPN in a nursing home, but from what I understand, they don't often use fancy name brand meds, but, are more routine. I would also keep my textbook close to my bed to review the conditions of the patients so that it is all fresh in your mind-you'd be surprized how blank you get because you're nervous!

I live in New York, myself. I am seeing that it does take time for new nurses to get positions these days because of the recession and also two major hospitals closed in my area, so, there is a surplus of nurses needing positions in my area.

Another observation I made while reading your post is that your place offered a two week orientation. From what I am constantly reading, this is good because many only offer two days and let you fly on your own. Be open, ask questions and do your best. And, I wish you the very best of luck!