New grad/New job

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I will be starting my first job in LTC setting. YaY! I have orientation (1 week) and then pretty much on my own-40 patients plus 2-4 CNAs. I will be in charge of new admits, meds, wound care, schedules... Oh My! It's a little nerve wrecking and intimidating to me. Does it get easier with time? 1week is kind of a short time to orient a new grad. I'm a newbie and basically wanna know the ins and outs. What should I be careful with, aware of, what should I have/take with me, etc...

Thanks :)

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Wow sounds like a lot...am a new grad also...just do your best...never put your license at risk..utilize all your resources..learn your nurse practice act for your state...also look for new grad programs because they give longer orientations....good luck...oh after your orientation if you still don't feel comfortable to be on your own just let them know...

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Wow sounds like a lot...am a new grad also...just do your best...never put your license at risk..utilize all your resources..learn your nurse practice act for your state...also look for new grad programs because they give longer orientations....good luck...oh after your orientation if you still don't feel comfortable to be on your own just let them know...

Thanks for your reply Ruke and congrats grad :)

Yes, it definitely seems like a lot; hopefully with time things will get easier.

Thanks for your advice, appreciate it

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Definitely double and triple check yourself and don't be afraid to ask for help/longer orientation. I'm a new grad in a geropsych unit and at 4 weeks in, I'm just now off of orientation. My patient load is 4-5 right now until I'm comfortable taking more. Document your butt off and good luck!

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Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

One week is too short an orientation for a new grad. You need at least a month just to feel comfortable being a licensed person. Take your time. Do things the right way. It does get easier. I've been in the business for probably longer than you've been alive. Many facilities still think it's okay to have an orientation that lasts a few days. The business and the acuity of the people we care for has changed. If I were you, I'd ask for more orientation time.

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New Grads at my facility get 3 months orientation.

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As a new grad in LTC I got a month and a half of full time training and I needed it. Ask for more OP!

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