new RN in LTC

Hopefully on the MAR there is a list of pt dx and allergies. Also on the orders it should say what the med is for.. i.e. metoprolol 50mg bid for HTN... easy example but you get the idea. In that way you can have a general idea. Residents in LTC usually have a bunch of Dx.. HTN, DM, renal... and you can gather those from the meds they are on. Then once you start charting you can see what is the focus for each res, read up on one or two when you have time. If it truly is a long term floor they will be there for awhile and you will have a chance to get to know them well. It takes extra work on your part but perhaps u can make a master list at home. I have one with general info for the res I usually pass meds on. Of course that goes out the window when I'm floated, then I start over again. Follow the parameters i.e. "hold if__", do the Rights of Medication, check for new orders before you start and you should be pretty safe. For family members of residents you do not know well... I stall by saying well.. previous shift endorsed xyz...Mr/Mrs so and so is currently out of bed, eating breakfast in the day room, I will be giving the meds at __ time. Dr will be here __. If there's any pressing concerns you have please let me know so that I can follow up with MD and make sure your mum/dad is well taken care of! *big smile* something like that and they are generally pleased. Smile, be confident and polite.. by the way you have written your post you seem like a prudent nurse so I hope they will get that vibe from you! If not, fake it til you make it and always be safe even if it takes longer! Good luck!