First LPN job as a charge nurse

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Specializes in SN, LTC, REHAB, HH.

Today i got the call that i've been offered a charge nurse position. i'm very excited and nervous at the same time. the facility is nice so is the staff. lots of tube feedings, some wounds not many though and they have a wound care nurse for that. some residents are there for long term and others for a short stay. i was wondering has any of you lpn's worked as a charge nurse as your first nursing job and what was it like? i've turned down three other positions one at an extended care facility because the pay offer was Horrible! at this place i can use most of my skills like iv and stuff and it seems like a nice place to work.

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Specializes in Hospice.

You will be fine. The title "charge nurse" at most long term care facilities simply means that you will be the nurse responsible for a particular unit or wing. The facility will ( hopefully) provide you with some sort of orientation period. Many new LPNs have started successful careers in long term care in exactly the same position.

Congratulations and good luck!

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Specializes in SN, LTC, REHAB, HH.
You will be fine. The title "charge nurse" at most long term care facilities simply means that you will be the nurse responsible for a particular unit or wing. The facility will ( hopefully) provide you with some sort of orientation period. Many new LPNs have started successful careers in long term care in exactly the same position.

Congratulations and good luck!

Thank you. My orientation starts next week and it's a full 5 days on the day shift eventhough my actual shift is 12 hr. nights. then i have 2 nights of orientation with an rn. Please pray for me i'm gonna need it. :lol2:

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Specializes in Home Care.

I'm a new LPN and have been working in an LTC for 6 weeks. I only work 7a to 7p on the weekends.

As a new LPN (or RN) I don't want to be "charge" anything. I don't want that kind of responsibility until I have some good, solid experience behind me. Then again, I won't work night shift either.

I do wish you the best of luck though! :)

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Geriatrics, LTC.

I am a brand new nurse working as a charge nurse in LTC. It's do-able but very stressful and scary. Many shifts I am the only nurse on the floor although the RN supervisor is nearby in the building. Sometimes I feel like I'm having a nervous breakdown and I can NEVER give proper care to everyone. I have 42 residents and 3-4 aides and it's crazy. Hope you are strong and a good leader, be confident and good luck!

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Specializes in Hospice and LTC.

I am also a new LPN and just started my first LPN job as a LPN Supervisor. I'm nervous I guess but I think that its just the title they give you. It'll look good on your resume that you have Charge nurse or supervisory experience. You'll be fine. You will be in charge of a hall and the cnas. GOOD LUCK and CONGRATS on passing boards and getting a job!

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