New Grad PDN

[SbeeLVN]

New Grad here. I started on the MedSurg unit and barely lasted. It was mentally and physically draining. I new quickly it wasn't for me. I also work PRN at AL facility, but there are so many safety issue, I feel like my license is at stake there. I'm feeling stressed out right now so I'm exploring private duty nursing I'm feeling a little burnt out and I'm sure, but hoping this will feel more manageable anyone else make a similar switch as a new grad? There's just not a lot of options as far as jobs as an LVN I'm hoping to find something decent then get my RN. 

[Elektra6, ASN, BSN, RN]

Hi I worked private duty not as a new grad but after working LTC and rehab for a few years. I studied for my RN but then I stayed as a private duty nurse. In LTC I was very burnt out taking care of 30 patients. The post hospital rehab patients were hard too. Private duty is easier but can get boring. I miss seeing coworkers all day but not the 30 patients. 
Since you worked in a hospital and AL you should be fine. Request an orientation on EVERY client. My company has a long orientation process for ventilator patients so I would take that class too. Give PDN a try. 

[SbeeLVN]

Hey thanks for sharing that! I actually just worked at the hospital for about a month on a med-surg floor, and only did a week at the other job—I'm not planning on staying there though. Do you think that's enough experience to start with private duty? I know it's a big change but it sounds a lot less stressful than LTC or rehab, for sure.

 

Since you've done it for a while, do you have any tips for starting out? Like stuff to watch out for or things you wish you knew at the beginning? Also they said I  would have  2a days of training but if that's not enough they then said I can train as long as want. My orientation day is from 9-5 for a day but I'm going to get clarification on training.

 

[Elektra6, ASN, BSN, RN]

You will be OK if it is a basic care client but ventilator training should be longer. Ask for more days if you need them. Always go and meet a client first before taking a case. Make sure it's a good fit first. Take a variety of clients because they go in and out of the hospital and then you will be without money. At least two or three patients. Hope this helps

[SbeeLVN]

That actually helps a lot, thank you! I ended up finding a full-time case with a G-tube and seizures, so no vents for now. I'll definitely make sure to meet the family first and get a solid orientation. I didn't even think about clients going in and out of the. I'll try to pick up a second case once I get settled into this one. Appreciate all the advice! I'm just so nervous but I think I can do it! 

 

[Elektra6, ASN, BSN, RN]

You'll do fine! Best of luck