LPNJen

So after only 6 days of training, I was let loose on my own today (my first real job!), doing care for 1/2 of the LTC facility (about 40 patients). I just got home and I'm happy to say that I did it! I don't think I made any mistakes. I think I'll even go back tomorrow...I've never been so stressed out. Most of the managers and aids are helpful, some aids just look at me like I'm an idiot. One day down...

I loved the employees at Skyline, incredibly friendly! The facility is small, and the nurses rotate around all departments. A wide variety of experiences, but usually a small census, and a bit slower paced than Hood River. I'd would consider it my first choice after school is done. Hood River hospital is larger. The staff was busy, very professional. Easier to specialize in a certain department. I think the starting wages in HR are a bit higher than Skyline, but then again, Washington doesn't have an income tax. I haven't worked at the hospital in The Dalles (only 20 miles east), but heard the facility is very nice. Right now, I've just started in LTC in HR for the summer, and I'm really liking the people that I work with. I hope that helps!

I've just finished the first year of my ADN program in the Columbia Gorge, and had one clinical rotation in the Hood River hospital. I also spent time at the smaller hospital in White Salmon, WA across the river. What kind of things did you want to know and maybe I can help you out.

I just had my first day on the job in LTC. Mostly I shadowed my preceptor and did a bunch of blood sugars and insulin. I'm concerned that the skills she was expecting me do be able to do, I'm not scheduled to learn in school until my RN year. How do I know if I'm in over my head, doing skills out of LPN scope, or if my school just hasn't gotten to the info yet? I checked my board of nursing website, and couldn't find the information. This job is going to be a great learning experience, but hugely stressful until I figure it out. I almost can't wait to get back to school (I can't believe I wrote that!).....

I'm so glad to hear that I'm not the only one! Last week I found out that I passed the NCLEX and received an offer for my first job three days later. The LTC facility wants me to start Aug. 1st, and at least they say they'll give me a few weeks of training. In clinicals, I was only responsible for 2 patients, and always had an instructor holding my hand. Now I'll be the nurse for half of the facility and supervising CNAs(that already know their job). It is so real now, and I'm not sure I'm ready for it. Any good words of advice?