Help Please!New LPNPlease Reply!

Simba&NalasMom, LPN · May 2, 2009

Don't do it. It's a disaster waiting to happen. I would normally say I can't believe they would even ask a brand new grad to work a shift before any orientation, but as a fellow LPN who started out in a similar way, I don't put anything past some nursing homes. Just tell them you have never worked as a nurse and don't feel comfortable until you have had some orientation.

On a side note, I'm willing to bet they will also want to cut your orientation short and throw you out there. Don't let them make you work until you are fully comfortable; it's your license and your patients' health and safety on the line! One of the biggest lessons I have learned in the last 4 years since I became an LPN is learn early to define your boundaries, b/c if you don't, people can and will take advantage.

You have worked hard and have much to be proud of; congratulations and welcome to nursing! :)

mary0507 · May 2, 2009

Right out of school? I would not do this until you were oriented. How would you know what is expected of you? How would you find things you need? This sounds like they are throwing a warm body on to the unit. They know you are out of school and they figure you will do anything to land a job. Politely tell them you need to be oriented. You don't need to be overwhelmed; ever. Protect your license.

katgirl46806 · May 2, 2009

Thanks for your replies.I decided Im not going to do it at least until i have 1 day orientation-thats just common sense but I also heard they willl do that to new hires/grads, but at least most people said they had 3 days.I also have a sneaky suspicion im going to have a very short orientation.The nurse I'm replacing is going prn-I wonder if there's a reason for that.I was hired for 3rd but today they were like oh by the way 2nd may be best for you being a new grad. because third can be overwhelming to a new grad.Maybe she doesnt know Im a new grad it was the 3rd shift nurse afterall.I was just surprised to get a call so soon.Technically I just became anew employee less than 24 hours ago!

Simba&NalasMom, LPN · May 2, 2009

Good call...we've all had to do our trials by fire as new grads, it's just part of life. You'll be fine and the time goes by quickly. Just remember to stick to your guns and don't be bullied! :)

NC Girl BSN · May 2, 2009

I worked in LTC as a LPN for almost 18 months. When I first started I was shocked that they only gave me a 3 day orientation and on the 4th day stuck me on a hall that they never orientated me on. It was a sink or swim moment and I chose to swim and eventually I got the hang of it and thrived. I liked working in the nursing home. The patients were my driving force. I wanted to do everything earthly possible for them. Alot of them counted on us(nurses). I don't like the idea of this facility trying to put you on the floor without proper training or exposure. Demand your orientation and then you can hit the floor. LTC management are so predictable. Its the same everywhere. Another thing, They will call you all the time on your days off and want you to come in and work. It's okay to say "NO". I did all the time. Actually I had caller ID and would screen my calls at home. When I say their names pop up, I just would not answer the phone. Good Luck and stand your ground. The ink is still wet on you licenses.You don't want anything to happen to them over foolish things that goes on in some of thes LTC facilites.

changeofpaceRN · May 2, 2009

Yeah I got 6 weeks orientation at my 1st place and they were great.. I then moved onto another facility and had to train many new grads in 3 days. I know it can be done but this is your license and I wasn't ready after 3 days. Passing meds is one thing but the paperwork,proper documentation, follow-up, new pt issues and doctor's is what takes up the time. I went to PRN at this place :-)

Oh and I agree with NCGirl- this type of place will call you all the time for all shift needs (no matter what you tell them). It was almost like a 2nd job just to screen and avoid the calls!