New Grad...need advice

jaycrue · Nov 25, 2004

I just passed my NCLEX-PN last month , with plans to finish my RN. The thing is i have been working in the ER this past year as secretary, and my entire ER gang wants to keep me :wink2: . I love them so much and im really excited bc they dont hire LPN's in this position. so i feel really honered and know they wouldn't have given it to if they felt like they couldn't do the job. I'm doing ok so far (they say im doing great, but i still dont have the comfy feeling) :chair: . I was just wondering if anyone had any advice to help me as im starting out in such an adavanced position. I would really appreciate it.
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My personal opinion; I suggest you work in a different environment one which will allow you to learn and grow, and develop confidence in your decision making. It would be great working in a familiar environment not to mention the staff, but to trully understand the change in position and responsibility you need to step out of whats familiar and take on a new challenge.

chris_at_lucas_RN, RN · Nov 25, 2004

I'm interested in your saying you are in an "advanced" position. As an LPN, you can do what an LPN can do--you are safe in trusting that you will be given the support you need, and because you know the limits of your license, you will be watchful about what you do and what you might graciously decline to do.

You say you have worked with these people for a while, you all get along and you feel good about working with them, but don't feel so competent or confident about the ER in general, is that right?

In my experience, anything I've done for the first time is new, exciting and a wee bit scary. I think that latter thing is what you are feeling.

You may feel the same level of unease no matter where you go. If you enjoy the ER, and that's what you want to do, and you'd like to stay there, it sure sounds like a good fit to me.

If you'd like to get a broader experience, you might see if you can't orient to a med/surg unit and float up there from time to time, or go full time in the med/surg unit and float to the ER for a while.

Whatever you decide, it does sound like you are an excellent, thoughful nurse--congratulations on the new license!

Tweety, BSN, RN · Nov 25, 2004

Congratulations!! I don't have any advice just want to wish you well. Get as much education as possible, such as taking critical care courses, ACLS, and the such.

Good luck!

akcarmean, LPN · Nov 25, 2004

Congradulations and Good luck.

mystc42 · Nov 26, 2004

Hey guys, thanks for the advice. I will most definately be getting my ACLS, PALS, and TNCC among with as many others that i can do. One thing i did forget to mention is that ive been a CNA for 5 yrs now so im not totally brand new to all this. I know its not the same but i do have some assessment skills i am carrying over. I do understand what you are saying about floating to another floor and i have thought about that or getting another type of call in position.

Thank you for your opinions :)