New LPN, New Job, Think I made a mistake...

nursynurseRN · Apr 1, 2008

I passed my boards in Jan. and had a few health problems..D&C, gallbladder surgery ect.. I recently accepted a job in LTC..they weren't honest about the patient ratio. (I was told 25:1-actually 35:1) and right now feeling like I made a huge mistake, going into LTC. I just am in a panic about learning everyone's names (patients) and not sure if nursing is it...any advice?

I have never worked in a nursing home or LTC. I have worked oncal at a retirement place... It take aver 4 to 5 months to learn everyone. If you don't do anything to them you might take longer to learn. I work in a hospital where the ratios are 5 to 1... You might wwant to do this althought LTC eventually you will get into a routine..... Just make sure whatever you do you feel comfortable. If you are not happy now try registry at other places if you can.

The Bell Jar · Apr 2, 2008

Well if you feel that it is unsafe,it probably is.Start applying at other places.Also,that is a big red flag that they lied,it makes me wonder what else they might be lying about.

Thats part of why I quit my first LTC job,I was the charge nurse and med passer to 40 or so residents and was brand new.

Katie B · Apr 3, 2008

LTC facilities always exagerate staffing to new people that`s what gets them in....I`ve been in the biz for 25 years. However, as far as learning the people you are caring for I always found a spiral notebook with one page devoted to one residents Diagnosis, Meds, how they take their meds and little personal tidbits helps.....and study it a few minutes before you go to work. After a couple of weeks it all clicks. There is always a little bit of a trust issue with older folks because you are a new face but they`ll get used to you and relax. Hang in there...it`ll get better....but don`t belie:nurse:ve anymore claptrap about staffing...It is NEVER what they say...sad but true