First job...Start tomorrow...Scared to death!!!

ClearBlueOctoberSky · Apr 15, 2012

I was hired about a month ago at a local SNF for a rotating every other weekend part-time schedule. The only "Orientation" I received was a facility orientation, and then I received four days with another LPN. There was really no paperwork type orientation to speak of.

I am lucky, in that I think I work for a great facility. My co-workers and supervisors are very understanding. Even when it seems like I am playing 20 questions with them. I think the thing is though, is that they expect me to ask questions, and to stand on my own two feet. They trust my abilities, and expect that I will get help when I need it. I appreciate that, because, like you, I had doubts on what I would be able to do.

In the past four weeks, I have learned that I am able to function as a nurse. I ask questions, but more importantly, I am considered part of the team and am expected to function to the capabilities of my license, and I do. Do I make mistakes? Yes, but I'm not allowed to be too hard on myself, as I have been told "Everyone makes mistakes. We all have been in the same situation as you are." I have learned how to adjust to make up for my lack of experience, as well as to trust my judgement.

As for the overtime, since I am part-time, I can work up to forty hours a week, and I have been, as it is the beginning of vacation time. I think all facilities are putting limits on the amount of overtime allowed due to financial constraints.

The only advice I am able to give you is:

Try not to stress to hard. You are learning your new role. Find things that will allow you to de-stress. I walk to and from work, which helps me immensely.

Don't be too hard on yourself. You are still learning your new role.

Ask those questions.

Take your breaks.

Don't be afraid to speak your mind. Trust your judgement, even if it turns out wrong. After all, we all can't be right. And don't be afraid to go to someone else.

Get to know which aides you can trust, and which you cannot. They can actually be your best source of information.

Get to know your residents right off the bat. Not only who they are and what they look like, but their habits, behaviours, likes and dislikes.

Don't be afraid to take charge.

As a disclaimer, I work on a locked unit with just me and two aides to 24 residents. I do have RN's I can access as a resource or for something I just cannot do, however, I am pretty much autonomous. I make the decisions, follow up and contact the Doctors, NP's, PA's, and families. But I love it. I am getting to be a better nurse everytime I go to work, and it shows.

Good luck, and let us know how your first week goes.

OnlybyHisgraceRN, ASN, RN · Apr 15, 2012

If you can ask for more orientation. If not keep looking for another job. This can make your or break you as new nurse.

Smilee1116 · Apr 15, 2012

Thanks for the advice...I really needed that!!!

ClearBlueOctoberSky · Apr 16, 2012

You're welcome. Good Luck!:yelclap:

Been there,done that, ASN, RN · Apr 16, 2012

First of all congratulations on your new position.

Secondly, you are wise to be concerned that they are hiring a new nurse and only providing 3 days of orientation.

As far as staff being readily available to answer your questions?... that is a concern ,as they will be very busy also.

The best part is you will be on day shift .. with more people available to address your questions.

Keep a notebook in hand to jot down questions,check out the specialty area here on All Nurses that discuss LTC .

I don't want to be Debbie Downer.. but I have 30 years of experience.. and don't think I could do it.

Deep breaths... good luck.. keep us posted.