My Very First Day on the Floor

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

Well, I finally landed my first job. It's in ltc on the pm shift. I'm casual, which for those that don't know, means I work when they need me (which seems to be more the norm). I made it through the painful part of orientation where you sit for hours and days watching videos about HIPPA and evil unions (couldn't believe that one). Anyhoo, I finally get my chance to begin orientation on the floor last pm. I was so pumped that I finally get to be on my feet meeting residents and working. I was so overwhelmed that I wanted to cry on the drive home!

It took me 3 hours to pass meds and do treatments on only 16 residents! I couldn't believe how long it took me! How will I ever make it on both of the wings when I could barely handle this one!? I found out that the nurse never gets a lunch because you can't leave the cna alone. I thought the supervisor would relieve for breaks, seeing there is a law about taking a break! So, I didn't get a lunch (and now I'm a bit crabby) and the mars that usually state how a resident takes their meds is not accurate (at least 5 didn't even state what to do). This is all time consuming for me to try to find someone who can tell me the answer.

Ok, so thats the med passing/tx part. I was given no instruction on how to do Medicare charting at all. I have no idea what it entails at all. I also saw alot of phone orders, but wasn't given any instruction on dealing with those either. I couldn't even tell you what I should do if the phone were to ring! I'm so frustrated I could scream.

I also should mention that they were planning on orientating me 1 shift per wing! I am a brand new lpn with no experience except for my clinicals. They finally gave me 2 shifts per wing to orientate. When do they plan on filling me in on the charting system when I'm so busy on the floor? I refuse to put my license on the line for a place that doesn't feel the need to orientate me properly. I thought with the 4 days of watching videos that this would be a great place to really learn. Now, I'm not so sure.

Is this a normal facility? Am I just crying sour grapes? Any advice for this newbie would be so appreciated. :bowingpur

[Jules A, MSN]

Hi there,

Well the good news is that with each shift you muddle through it will get easier and you will get quicker. :) When I was new I just did the best I could to be safe and made an effort to find ways to improve my speed with each shift. Floating units is hard for an experienced nurse so for a new one its really tough but imo worth it in the end. I also was just thrown in on different units, only trained on one, and it terrified me but now its great to be comfortable on any of them. My supervisors like that I'll work wherever without a complaint which never hurts either. As for this proper orientation thing you asked about, give me a minute to google it and I'll get back to you.

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

What's orientation??

Unfortunately, LTC facilities tend to throw new staff off the deep end and tell them to sink or swim. It's tough sledding at first, but most people learn faster when they have to muddle through on their own. I don't think it's right, but it IS reality, and your best bet is to cultivate mentorships with more experienced co-workers who would be willing to answer your questions and help you adjust to your new role. All LTC nurses are busy, but there's almost always at least one nurse in any given facility who enjoys taking newbies under her/his wing and teaching them the craft..........good luck to you!

[softstorms]

Take a look around and see what nurse seems to "take it in stride". Talk to her or him and let them give you some insight. Every job is hard for the new person, not just this one. Ask for support!!! If you are in a place that has a strong term work environment you will find support. If not, then never feel bad about moving on!