First Job

LPNer · Mar 6, 2005

I have just started my first job as an LPN after being out of nursing school for 3 years. It is a parttime position in a Family Practice and I am SCARED to Death!!! I just don't know if I can handle it. I have forgotten so much! The girls in the office are just great about showing me things. So far, I am doing paperwork...I haven't actually taken care of the patients. In a few weeks I will have to fill in for one of the nurses and I can feel my heart in my throat! I am terrified about administering the meds,and drawing them up. I know it won't get any better until I start doing it, I just have an overwhelming sense of fear that I can't seem to shake. I want to do a good job and I know that once I learn it, they will be glad I am there. Please, does anyone have any suggestions? Any encouragement?

Thanks!

I am so curious about why it has taken 3 years to take your first job, but you didn't say and I will consider it too personal for here.

I have noticed in my life that most peoples fears are of their own construction. If you were not qualified for the job, you would not have gotten it.

If meds are your biggest fear, get out that text book (if you have it) and reread the principles of adminisration. If you don't have y our text, get one someplace else. Though all texts are different, the basic content will be the same.

Did you see the movie WaterBoy?

YOU CAN DO IT!

pippy · Mar 6, 2005

I am so curious about why it has taken 3 years to take your first job, but you didn't say and I will consider it too personal for here.
I have noticed in my life that most peoples fears are of their own construction. If you were not qualified for the job, you would not have gotten it.
If meds are your biggest fear, get out that text book (if you have it) and reread the principles of adminisration. If you don't have y our text, get one someplace else. Though all texts are different, the basic content will be the same.
Did you see the movie WaterBoy?
YOU CAN DO IT!

The reason I have waited 3 years is because several members of my family were seriously ill and I helped to care for them. What about the movie WaterBoy? I never saw it. I have been trying to study medication administration, but reading and doing are totally different. Thanks for the encouragement, I appreciate any advice

LPNer · Mar 6, 2005

The reason I have waited 3 years is because several members of my family were seriously ill and I helped to care for them. What about the movie WaterBoy? I never saw it. I have been trying to study medication administration, but reading and doing are totally different. Thanks for the encouragement, I appreciate any advice

In the movie, Adam Sandler was a water boy and this guy said "You can do it!" It was very funny and looses some of the if you aren't familiar with the movie.

Your situation is not funny by any means, but sometimes humor is the best medicine. Readers Digest has always been right about that.

Just go over the info in the texts about administration you will be fine. Besides, it's not like you have been completely out of the field!

The big thing about giving a shot is, Dont hesitate! If you are nervous about sticking, the pt will feel it more. Be quick and smooth and it hurts less, often not even felt.

Sierralee · Mar 8, 2005

I worked with family practice doctors for 8years as an Medical Assistant. I finished LPN school in July of 2004. Took my boards in Jan. (Because the board lost my first application). I now looking for work. You will be find in family practice I know alot of nurses who started with a Dr. Office first then went on into other fields. I been out of family practice for almost 2 years. But if I can help let me know. I also have 2 years experiences in Peds. Hang in there its not hard once you get the routine down. It can get to be old hat and boring.

pippy · Mar 8, 2005

I worked with family practice doctors for 8years as an Medical Assistant. I finished LPN school in July of 2004. Took my boards in Jan. (Because the board lost my first application). I now looking for work. You will be find in family practice I know alot of nurses who started with a Dr. Office first then went on into other fields. I been out of family practice for almost 2 years. But if I can help let me know. I also have 2 years experiences in Peds. Hang in there its not hard once you get the routine down. It can get to be old hat and boring.

Thanks sierralee!!!

I really needed to hear that today. It's been a little better every day-there is just so much to learn about the day to day routine! Thanks again for the support. I just might take you up on that.

Good luck in your job search.