some advice please

[cna2lpn80]

:yeah:i got a few questions about some things about my new job.

i graduated nursing school last year, and got my license about 3.5 months ago.

i just recently got a job, i am super excited. problem is though its been a while since i've been in school.

i want to brush up on some things, so what things should i brush up on?

the position is in a LTC facility, if that helps.

another thing is what kinds of things should i bring with me, what i mean is all the nurses i see bring a bag to work with them.

what kinds of things should i be sure to bring with me.

sorry for questions that seem stupid, but i am very nervous!!!!!

any help appreciated!!!

thanks

[guest2210]

First and foremost, there is no such thing as a stupid question!

Some of the things I carried with me were: my own stethoscope-you can use the facility's, but ewwwww...

nursing drug handbook-it will be your "bible" when passing meds, especially when pts ask what this one is for.

pens, markers, lunch. If working on nights, maybe a book, word search puzzles-it can get boring on nights depending on acuity and census. I've seen others bring their bills, other correspondence, Christmas cards.

Anything to pass the time on nights. If you are on dayshift, free time is severely limited. Bring the essentials: a water bottle, sodas, red bull, etc...As you get more accustomed to your shift and environment, you will know what to bring with you. Good luck...you are starting an amazing journey...enjoy it and soak up everything you can. I would even look through my patient charts to familiarize myself with their histories, past problems. You will be amazed at what you can find out about your pts when you have the time to do this. Time management is your biggest chore from the start. You can start out being super organized, then BAM!!! One thing can knock everything out of whack. But you will learn to adjust and even make time for anything unexpected. As with most things, it will take time and practice.

[ncnrse08]

I truly miss working in LTC. I carried my own stethescope, BP cuff & drug handbook. Most facilities have their own, however they are often in use or have issues. I got to know each of my residents, likes, dislikes & spent time with each one. Timing is crucial! There is alot to do and by knowing my residents, it allowed me to get their meds & care done when they were at their most cooperative. This may sound unrealistic, but it worked for me. One thing I have yet to learn is to take time off. I was a familiar face, which is comforting, but when you become a resident by proxy, its time to take a day off!!

[systoly]

I never carried a bag. If you have a locker you can keep your essentials in there. Small notepad and spare pens are always good to have and it never hurts to have an extra pair of scrubs. You may also need scissors.

[scribblz, BSN, CNA, LPN]

In my nursing bag I carry my employee handbook, drug book, my stethoscope, automatic bp cuff w/ extra batteries, pens, sharpies, mini flashlight, highlighters, scissors, calculator, a book, tea bags and granola bars :) good luck.

I find the way to make your shifts progressively easier is to study your report sheets at home afterwords. Look at everything you did and reflect on what worked/ what didn't. This will especially help in a heavy LTC med pass. It really helps to know your residents well ie. she will only take her meds if you bribe her w/ chocolate, or if you mix it in a drink or if you discuss her grand kids. Just don't get discouraged if it's tough at first especially if you feel like the other nurses are all so much "faster". Trust me they weren't when they started.