Just Got my first job as an LPN

jimthorp · Dec 22, 2006

You will be nervous for quite a while and that is normal. I didn't feel totally comfortable for the first year. Take your time with passing meds and you will be fine. Rushing causes more anxiety and errors.

Go with your gut instinct on the job choice. $1/hour isn' that much of a difference to be the deciding factor, IMO.

I spent my first day following the RN around. The second day I passed a few meds and did some Tx. The third day I did the same but did the 1300 med pass alone. The fourth day I was on my own but could get help from the other nurses if I needed it.

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Dec 22, 2006

Congratulations. And definitely go for the people willing to train you. I was thrown right in as a new LPN grad and you are NOT ready for 25 patients after one week.

nurseangel47 · Dec 22, 2006

Yes, I agree with the other response you got. I have done LTC a LOT and the four week training period is the one I'd take, if I were you. Just my advice. Due to the extended training/orientation you will get. And be sure that they stick to it. Some facilities promise one thing, then if you're there for about three or four shifts, they all of a sudden decide you're ready to fly on your own. No. Stick to your inital offering of the four weeks since you're a new grad and it's a new facility for you.

Oh, by the way....CONGRATULATIONS! Have a good time, try to relax. You will pick up the med pass and get to know the residents in a matter of time.

Don't let the MAR length of multiple meds/cranky residents/uncooperative and perhaps lazy CNAs, unfriendly (at first, possibly) staff...until everyone breaks the ice, it will seem like a new frontier!

Just go with the flow. Don't get discouraged....YOU CAN DO IT!

You got thru nursing school....compared to that, it's a piece of cake.

:nurse:

JosieLPN · Dec 22, 2006

Thank you for your responses so far, I really appreciate it. I'm confident that I'll be ok, but in the back of my mind there is always that doubt.

I'm going with the 4 week training job. I'm usually right on target with the vibe I get from people and places.

In addition, how do you find working with CNA's. Any tips on getting along easy?

Does the LPN assign them their work schedule or does someone else do that?

meownsmile, BSN, RN · Dec 22, 2006

I agree, go with the longer orientation. It will be worth losing the dollar an hour to feel comfortable in your job. Also i might add, dont let the other staff interrupt you while you are passing meds unless its an emergency. Keep your mind on what you are doing. If they want to stand and chit chat while you are passing meds just nicely tell them you will be done in a few minutes and you would love to chat with them then. That you are really excited to get to know the people you are working with but feel you need to keep your mind on what you are doing.

Home Health Columnist / Guide · Dec 30, 2006

No NEW nurse should accept a position at all possible that provides less than 4 weeks orientation...setting yourself up for failure otherwise.

skittlebear · Dec 30, 2006

Congrats on your job offers!!! I would definitely take the job that offers more training. Did they say how many pts you would care for at that job?

damarystx · Dec 30, 2006

Congratulations!!! You are making a good choice by going with the longer training, I had accepted an LTC position as an LPN new grad at what was supposed to be THE most reputable place in my area.....on the 3rd day the nurse that was supposed to be training me told me the only way that I would learn was by doing it myself and left me to care for 30+ patients (she disappeared) and was getting pressured by DON to start working on my own....sooooo not a safe situation for a new grad having to pass so many cardiac meds, diabetic clients, swallow precautions etc. I left the facility, took a pay cut and found a job in a different field, much smaller patient load and 3 weeks training. Good luck to you!