Orientation for LPN in LTC

[MisMatch, LPN]

What type/length of orientation did you have as a new grad?

I started my first job as an LPN in a 100 bed nursing home/rehab center in February. My orientation was about 12 days working with another LPN, first following her, then her following me. This lasted about 8 days, then she was at the desk catching up on paperwork and I could go to her with questions - basically on my own. I don't feel like I've been adequately oriented. I work nights, rarely see any administrators, the place is consistantly short-staffed, everyone seems rushed, and I don't trust talking to anyone there.

Please share your experiences - I'm curious, is this the "norm"?

[NC Girl BSN]

I was orientated for 3 days. We have 30 patients and I worked 3-11. I followed the nurse the first day. The second day I follwed her and did the PM meds and on the third day I did the med pass myself and she assisted as needed. On the 4th day I was on my own. It was very stressfull at first because I never got off the cart. About the 2nd week, I had a good grip on it and was fine. Most people sink with that kind of orientation but I am a fast learner and was a CNA for years. I thing it was a terrible orientation(or lack there of) but I made it through.You are blessed to have has 12 days. That rare in LTC.

[forever nursing 35]

I work nights in long term to avoid the adminstrative staff and the drama's of day n evening shift. Yes In LTC the atmosphere you describe is usually is the "Norm".