New LPN- Tips needed to give safe competent care

[bjz823]

I am newly licensed. I was a good student making 86-90 on most exams and testing in the 96% percentile on the NLN exam at the end of school. Right now I know I need to know meds better and refresh my memory because I have not passed meds since December. In school I worked full time while in school full time. I found myself rushing to cram for tests and do homework. I think some material did not stick in my head like I would have liked or needed. I passed the NCLEX easily but I need to do some more work and study to be more confident when I start working.

What do you suggest so that I am prepared for work. I am reviewing my procedures by reading my clinical procedure book, also I ordered Pharm Phlash cards. It has a limited amount of meds but i figure I can study those most common ones then continue after that with my Pharmacology and the nursing process.

What else can I study to be ready and prepared? I know we are always learning but I really want to really be sharp when I start.

[lpnflorida]

I think what you are already studying is enough until you know exactly where you will be working.

Do not forget to also put away the books and have some fun. You need to be well rounded to do best for your patients. It means take care of yourself fun is part of it along with getting enough sleep and meeting with friends and or family.

[bjz823]

As an LPN I am sure it will be long term care to start. The hospitals here do not employ LPNs. There are some working but they are experienced. They are going with only RNs. I want to work LTC until I get experience then do something different like home health or something like that. I would enjoy visiting residents.

[lpnflorida]

In that case you could study up on Rehabilitation the care of post strokes, single joint replacements such as knees or hips, wound care techniques alot is done in LTC, also can never grow wrong focusing on geriatrics which is it own speciality.