New LPN and afraid

[Dragonstrike]

Hello, I am a new LPN and I have been applying for jobs. Finally got a PRN position in a home care setting. I have not started working, because there is not a case for me, but I have been feeling so afraid for the unknown, I feel I won't be able to do a good job. It terrifies me knowing one day I will go to work and Being on my own. I wonder if anybody else felt this way, and if so what did you do to get over it? Please help this new grad

[roser13, ASN, RN]

Being "on your own" is the reason that most home health agencies do not hire new grads. Sorry to say, but your fears are valid.

The only way to "get over" your concerns is to gain experience/knowledge prior to taking such a position.

[1hotnurse08]

I loved home care!! Hopefully you will also once you gain experience and overcome your fear. Most places will not hire you without 1-2 years experience. If you are feeling nervous maybe they will allow you to accompany another nurse on a home care visit so that you can have an idea of your job duties in the home. Just ask!!

[1hotnurse08]

Prior to me doing private duty and respite care I did home health for about 5 years so I was used to going in and out of different environments. During home health orientation I accompanied nurses on home visits, and when I did private duty and respite care I usually just asked the nurse who has worked with the patient would it be okay to just spend a couple of hours with him/her to see the daily routine with the client. It helped tremendously!! Hope this eases your fears!!

[Dragonstrike]

Thank you for your input. i am new Grad and the only experience i have are the clinicals hrs. I know the agency will train me before sending me, but for some reason i feel worried and afraid. When i was in school it was different because my instructor was all the time making sure i was doing everything correct, but now it will be different. I am considering volunteer in a free clinic here in the county so i can get more comfortable and obtain more experience. I am hoping this will help.

[Dragonstrike]

Prior to me doing private duty and respite care I did home health for about 5 years so I was used to going in and out of different environments. During home health orientation I accompanied nurses on home visits, and when I did private duty and respite care I usually just asked the nurse who has worked with the patient would it be okay to just spend a couple of hours with him/her to see the daily routine with the client. It helped tremendously!! Hope this eases your fears!!

Thank you very much for your words. I am pretty sure the coordinator will send me with a nurse for a couple of days, so i can get familiar and get some training. I told her i dont feel comfortable going on my own. i dont want to put my license on risk or hers. It is so hard to get a job when you dont have any experience . But some how i need to get some. I just want to get over this feelings.