New LVN.. don't get an orientation

[CaLVN530]

I have to admit I am a little anxious! I start in July and I am registry so I don't get an orientation. I would love to work for a facility, but I found out that I would make 4 dollars an hour less than I make now as a CNA!

Anyway, I am working in a LTC, any tips on my first night?

[jnrsmommy]

Irregardless if you're registry or not, you are supposed to have an orientation, period. That definitely does not sound right, and I would be VERY leery of working there.

[elkpark]

Facilities pay big bucks for agency/registry nurses, and they are expecting, for that amount of $$$, to get an experienced, seasoned "pro" who is ready to hit the floor and do the job. It's very typical that "orientation" consists of simply being shown where things are and a quick review of what your job responsibilities are. Also, the staff nurses are often not particularly eager to be helpful because they are well aware that you're getting paid a lot more to do the same job they're doing.

These are among the reasons why many of us here encourage new grads to not take agency/registry positions. You're going to be largely on your own; the agency is not interested in your best interests or career development, only in making money off of you. It will be up to you to make sure you don't get put into a dangerous situation or endanger your license.

Best wishes; I hope the job will work out well for you. :)

[NursKris82]

You need to think about your patients and your liscense. It is not worth $4/ hr to risk your liscense or the well being of your patients. I just started in LTC as an LPN not too long ago. I had an awesone orientation and it still took me a while to get the hang of the job. As a nurse you have an incredible amount of responsibility. My suggestion- take the pay cut and start in a facility with a good orientation program, then after (at least) 3 months or so do agency. $4 is not worth the risk!