Long Term to Short Term

[DebraBaker]

Hi, i'm new here. I've been a LPN for 6 years and was a CNA for 3 years before this. I have been working at this facility for two years and just recently went from part time (3 days a week) to full time (4 days). My schedule has changed instead of being on the same long term unit, I now float from the rehab unit one day to long term the next and back and forth. I've worked rehab only on a per diem basis.

The facility I work at is heavy. The LPN speaks reports the labs to the doctors and all changes, there is no wound nurse so we do all the treatments. I work day shift so we also have to book transportation for all appointments and make all the follow up appointments. Some days can be overwhelming.

I feel like I don't know what I should know. I feel I've lost a lot of my clinical skills. I've never had to report labs before this facility. I feel my unit supervisor on the rehab side looks down on me and she belittles me a lot. Any advice? Books to brush up on my skills, especially with labs.

I've dealt with trachs, g-tubs, urostomy's, colostomy's. Any advice would be appreciated.

[newrnltc]

i think you just answered your own question! if you feel your knowledge is lacking in labs then brush up on them! Which value is critical? what are the interventions? (ie ie s/s hyperkalemia, kayexelate? etc) when must you call the MD and what can wait? -- there is an app on iphone MDezlabs that tell you possible pathologies for each abnormal lab.. you can refer to your old med surg books.. i also like the Nursing Made Incredibly Easy Series.

Most rehab pts are s/p knee or hip surgery. Learn about the procedures and pain meds commonly prescribed. When can they ambulate? How do you position them on the bedpan? Which way do you turn them? Definitely do surgical site checks and monitor for s/s infection.

As for the supervisor that belittles you? Sticks and stones! She doesn't pay your salary and you are not there for her. You're there for your patients so try not to let her get to you. Take constructive criticism and see how you can improve. Take snide remarks unrelated to your work/job and mentally shove it up her bum lol

You'll be okay just never stop learning and improving! :)

[amygarside]

you can always review online if you have the time.