New grad going into private duty

It is quite possible to start out as a new grad as long as you are given the support that you need. I assume you will be working for an agency. If so, then don't be afraid to ask for as much orientation as you need, for the whole schmear. They will start by training you on the administrative requirements, the paperwork, and day to day way things are run at the agency. As far as the case that you may be working. You will be given an orientation to the case. The supervisor will provide you with a copy of the 485 and the med sheets. You can look up anything you need to know about, and ask questions. Then you will go to the home and meet the client and family. The primary nurse or the nurse on duty will give you the scoop on what you need to do. That is about it in a nutshell. Just remember to be proactive about requesting sufficient orientation and getting your questions answered. You will do ok, as long as the case is not too complex for a beginner. Your supervisor should see that you are given a case that meets your skill level. Good luck and hope you like home health.

I can relate. As a fairly new grad (got my license in July of 2008), I was desperate for work and ended up going with an agency working private duty....but private duty in the school setting. I ended up really liking it. I like the autonomy, the fact that it's not really stressful, and I feel fulfilled helping my patient daily, and being able to give my full attention to him/her. I was a little apprehensive at first....being a new grad and not having any hospital experience, but I chose my cases wisely (after asking MANY questions and really being sure I could handle the case), and meeting with the patient/district RN before I made my final decision). I have come to find that it really fits my personality (INFP for those of you who are aware of of Meyer's Briggs) and I REALLY enjoy the school hours/holidays/weekends/vacations off of work. And then when the school year is over I could either work summer school cases/camp cases or any other side job of my choice (I have my BA in art/photography and would really like to start a side business in the near future). So I might just stick with private duty nursing in the school setting and see what comes of it.

Just a few tips: really make sure you feel comfortable with the case
make sure you have the support you need from fellow staff (in my cases, it's been the district school nurses and they've been super supportive in training/making sure I know what I need to know)
and be prepared to not get paid on the days your patient is absent from school...and short days during the school year...and during vacations/holidays (if you are going thru an agency and are paid by the hour)

Overall, very fulfilling and a good fit for me so far.

luvmyguys, just wondering if your thoughts/avenues have changed since you posted last. I'm gearing up to hopefully work a private duty school case this Aug/Sep

No, I don't have a case right now....might wait for the school year to start. I usually don't work private duty in the home, but in the school/classroom setting. I like it that way. I usually meet w/ the school district nurse and the family or just the client....depending on the client's age/cognitive ability. I will work in the classroom setting and have the school's hours/holidays off. I work along w/ the patient's educational aide and the teachers. It's quite rewarding!

Greetings luvmyguys, and B.A. LVN,

I'm a new grad class of May '09. I passed my boards in early July, and really have my heart set on a pedi private duty job. Me + any time in the hospital = just not going to happen. It's too much for me to take; running all day, no time to take care of my own needs, and then, when the day ends, it feels like I got nothing done. Not my cup of tea. I'm just not sure what company/ agency is willing to give me a chance, rather than think hiring me is an expensive mistake. So, it looks like you guys already have jobs lined up in the specialty I want from what I've read in your posts. Care to share what companies you are working for? Thanks, and let's KIT

Thanks for the message, B.A. LVN! Can't send PMs, but I will let you know if something comes through for me . I'm really glad you love your job. It makes life easier

BA.LVN, I've never heard of private duty nursing in the school setting before. It sounds very interesting. How do you go about finding these jobs and, if I may ask, approximately what is the pay? What's your typical day like? Thank you