LTC-LPN

For a *frequent faller*, at the nursing home I work at, we use a low bed (about 3 inches from the floor) with a foam mat next to the bed. If the *frequent faller* rolls out of bed, he rolls onto the mat. The low bed is a bit difficult for the staff to provide transfering, but we understand about preventing injuries to the resident in the least restrictive way possible. We also use bed alarms and w/c alarms (as described by bandaidexpert). Falls are difficult to prevent 100% of the time, despite our best efforts. Good luck StormyCD, Jane Ann

....today I learned something new.....*pillow therapy*! Never heard it called that before. You are truly a wonder to handle all of those cases on your shift. The woman with the pain control issues should have been enough for one day. My wish for you today is that you may have some rest and a refreshing beverage! You earned it. Jane Ann

I absolutely love the PM shift. Have worked the PM shift almost all of my career - 25 years worth. My husband worked days and I worked PMs and the kids had very little day care. They are grown up now so the day care worries are over, but the evening shift is still my preference. My best sleeping time is in the late morning after everyone is gone for the day. ( I do get up to send the high schooler off to school and the husband off to work, but then the bed is mine! ) Jane Ann

Dear adnstudent, I am so glad to hear that you have a doctors appt. and are trying something new. That took a lot of courage to come forth and mention your troubles as well as take some of our thoughts and move them forward into actions. I hope your weekend is a positive experience. Keep posting so I can keep up with you. You are in my prayers. Jane Ann

...I am thinking of you and trying to think of something that may help. You say you are busy with school and work, but do you take time to do something fun FOR YOURSELF? Can you go for a walk, exercise or somehow take care of just you? Have you had a physical lately? A chance to speak with an MD about the anxiety? You don't have to measure your life by the yardstick of your friends! Keep us posted and let us know how you are... Jane Ann

If I get called in for an extra shift, it is $7.50/hour more. This is a LTC facility. But the administration just eliminated all overtime, unless it is above the 40 hours in a work week. I am screwed because I am a part time employee and now will not get any overtime, ever, because I do not work 40 hours in a work week. I did get overtime for any work over 8 hours for the first 6 1/2 years I have worked there, this is a new change effective immediately. I was shocked to get the little notice in my paycheck. Happy Holidays! Bah humbug! Jane Ann

Getting the meds out on time at my LTC facility is a challenge to say the least. I generally have 36 to 40 residents. I work pms and right after report, I run! I try to start the meds at the stroke of 3 pm, so I can be finished by 5 pm. I usually have 5 or 6 blood sugars to do, insulins and checking up on anyone sick. I pray the whole time that no one falls, has chest pain, starts bleeding anywhere and especially that the aides do what they are supposed to be doing so I don't have to chase them down for help. I have been out of compliance several times and have reported this to the DON, whose response is "just do your best." It wouldn't be so bad if the residents took their meds nicely, but so many of them have dementia and if approached incorrectly, I wear the meds. It is a hard job anymore.