HELP! Brand new LPN, second interview QI/ICP/ESH/Compliance

[MollysMammie]

Hey y'all!

I am a new LVN trying to prepare myself for a second job interview. It is a hospital position in Environmental Safety/Compliance/Infection Control/Quality Improvement (mouthful, I know).

I recently got hired on at a LTCF, which I haven't yet started working. The pay at the LTC home is good but they haven't even told me what shift I will be working yet. I know I will get stuck with weekend doubles and I really don't want to give up church on Sundays. I would rather have the hospital position because of the experience, great hours M-F, 8-5 and because of the facility. But to be honest, I am unclear what all this job is going to entail and whether or not the compensation will be worth it. Nor am I sure what compensation to expect.

This hospital position is brand new and will be combining 4 job responsibilities that are currently being performed by 4 different people. My first interview was with 3 of these people and, honestly, there was so much information and jargon that I am still quite unclear of what my job duties would be exactly. I believe the 4 areas of job tasks are 1)Environmental safety, 2)Compliance, 3)Quality Improvement, and 4)Infection Control. I know there will be a lot of chart abstraction and coding, which I also have no experience with, being that I am a new nurse. However, they are prepared to offer credentialing in any area necessary.

I am a nervous wreck about this next interview, which will be in front of an even larger group than before! I would like some insight in these areas, as well as what I can expect from an interview like this. I don't want to blow it.

ANY and ALL ADVICE would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!!! I like to be prepared for interviews and a new job by having done my research. However, as of right now, I don't know where to begin. PLEASE HELP!!! Thanks!

[Snow White03]

I can only speak to the QI piece, but starting this as a new grad may be difficult. I’m not saying that it is impossible, but you should go into this with realistic expectations and your eyes open. Chart abstraction based upon CMS and TJC definitions (if this is indeed what kind of abstracts you would be doing)can be very detailed at times and having a clinical background to draw from would be a benefit. The facility that I work at will not considered you for this position without five years of clinical experience. I would recommend practicing your interview skills before your next interview to help you relax. Good luck!

[MollysMammie]

Thank you! The interview went well but I would be surprised if they gave me this job. Like you said, I believe this type of job requires extensive clinical experience.