Please Help!!! New Grad working first nursing job LTC

[scoober33]

Hi everyone, I graduated the LPN program this past Dec, passed my boards n Feb, and just started working my very first nursing job in a skilled facility on a LTC unit. I wasn't quite sure where to go for my first job, and ended up doing this. I just finished my 4th day of training on the unit and they are supposedly giving me 10 days total.

I am feeling VERY overwhelmed. My responsibilities are for 30 patients with extensive meds. Even though I am still training with someone, I am finding myself getting very flustered and just anxious. Plus, the reason I got into nursing was to spend time with my patients and get to know them which I cannot do.

I DESPERATELY need advice/help. Right now I am in a 90 day probationary period to see if this is a "good fit". Would it be horrible to leave so soon if I decide its not the right environment for me? Also, what is the correct way to handle that when you leave a nursing job very early on?

[AshiPanda]

30 patients? What the heck? Do you work night shift or something? I work 3-11 and I've had like 16-18 patients and it's really not that bad...I mean I work my butt off and never take breaks, but it's still doable... I am a new LPN, only been at this job 2 weeks with just 4 days orientation o.O;

[scoober33]

I am on the 3-11 shift also. We have 60 patients, 2 LPNs, and 4 CNAs. It seems like an impossible task for me to soon be doing 30 patients on my own!

[Julie1963]

I'm also a new LPN in a LTC. We have 25-30 patients depending on what unit we're assigned to. I'm also pulled to the sister facility where I was previously employed as a CNA/CMA to fill in because they are short handed (not my choice). I don't think these situations are optimal for a new nurse to learn the ropes but unfortunately it seems to be the norm. Are you the only nurse in the facility or is there another nurse with you possibly in another unit? I have tried to remember that it is OK to ask that other nurse for advice and/or help when I need to.

[pagandeva2000, LPN]

It seems that this is the norm in LTC. Also, this is your FIRST position after just becoming licensed. Of course, you will be anxious...in fact, no matter if you had one patient, you will feel this way until you get your feet wet.

This is what I would observe for; if your co-workers and supervisors seem to be friendly, patient and understanding, then, wait and see how it goes (at least do one tour after orientation). If they are not, then, leave. Personally, I would not mention that I worked there at all unless this is a small town where everyone knows everyone. 10 day orientation for LTC is excellent...most people in my area (even new grads) get two days and that is it.