theleaf

That's what I initially thought, however after meeting today with the RN in charge I was informed I was to be setting up and administering the TPN. After starting the infusion and assessing for a few minutes, I was to finish my documentation and leave the patient. I also had some apprehension because I would be hanging the TPN, but not monitoring for the entire infusion.

Checked both my basic nursing and med-surg nursing books, they both briefly (a few paragraphs) give an overview of what PN/TPN is. The basic nursing book gives no instruction on administering, as it does with other procedures such as inserting NG tube, checking tube placement, etc. Then again I wouldn't really expect it to be in a basic nursing book :/

Well, apparently they don't have any nurse educators working on thursdays or fridays, so I'm out of luck there :/

Thank you. Currently on hold with the CABRN.

Also, what would I ask the CABRN? Not really sure since it's an LVN scope of practice question.

I contacted the CABVNPT but I won't get a reply until Tuesday. I found a sheet from the California Vocational Nurse Educators (updated 2010) and it says infusing tpn or other fluids, blood withdrawal throught central line is not within LVN scope of practice. So it looks like a no. I spoke with the RN from the home health agency and she said another nurse told her as long as I was IV certified and had training with her I was fine to do it. I'm confused and don't want anything to happen to my license.

Any admin able to help answer? I called the board and they won't get back to me until next week, but I start training tonight. Former classmates that I asked tell me working with a central line is a nono, which is what I thought. But I can't find anything in the NPA that specifies about TPN/central lines.

Do you know what kind of 'set up' that would need to be done the night before?

Hello, I'm an CA LVN and today have been offered a case position with a home health agency. From what I understand, my job will be to arrive at the client's house at 10pm and set up the TPN. I was informed that all I had to do was set up the TPN so it is ready for the RN in the morning. I was told I would be done in about an hour or less. I'm supposed to start tomorrow night for training. Does this sound appropriate for me to do? The lady I was talking to (not a nurse) mentioned about the central line, which is something I thought LVNs weren't allowed to touch. Also, what kind of set up would be involved that couldn't easily be done by the RN in the morning? I'm currently looking through the NPA but I thought it can't help to ask here!

Thank you both for your advice. Now that I think about it, I've seen quite a few nurses come and go during my time in LTC, so I guess being fired is a pretty common occurrence in this area. Which isn't too appealing a thought That would be great if it was illegal to ask if one has ever been fired, I feel that admitting that is such a hindrance when looking for a job. Thank you both again

In the later part of last year I was terminated from my first LVN job. It was a per diem day shift float position and honestly was a lot for me to handle. The whole situation really brings me down whenever I think about it. It made me rethink whether I want to continue being an LVN or just give up and start at the bottom. After a lot of thinking, I think it's best if I give it at least another shot, so I've been applying to various LVN position near my area. So far I've only heard back from one place, just today in fact. I had to explain why I was terminated to the DON and, surprisingly, she invited me to go meet with her tomorrow morning. I'm pretty nervous, not only because it will be my first interview (if you can call it that) in a long time, but for the position in question. It is a per diem position covering all shifts. I really only want to work night shift, but at this point I really need some income coming in and this is the only place that is giving me a chance to talk to them. Any tips/advice/words of wisdom? Also, is it necessary to have naked fingernails to go in and talk? They aren't crazy colors (pink with white tips) but I'd like some input. Thank you very much in advance, I appreciate your time :)

I know exactly how you feel. I was fired last year, and every application I fill out always asks if I have been previously terminated. I either put "let go during probationary period" or, more recently, "job ended." I've only been called back once (today in fact!) and the DON asked why I wasn't still working at the place I was terminated at. I answered her questions with simple straight-forward answers, I didn't want to sound like I was over explaining. She invited me to meet with her tomorrow so I guess the way I handled it was satisfactory for her. Good luck with finding another job, I completely understand wanting to give up on nursing, I felt exactly the same way, for months. It really is terrible feeling like you made such a mistake by going to nursing school (and actually really enjoying it). And the job hunt is tough, at least in my own experience, although I know quite a few of my former classmates are also looking for jobs and having a tough time. I wish you the best of luck.

Honestly, I feel relieved. I'm going to miss the income though, and it's going to suck working just as a CNA, not to mention looking for another job and explaining why I was fired.

I'd feel so lucky to be in your shoes. I'm still looking for my first job. Be happy that they're talking to you like you're hired. Just my 2¢

Thank you everyone for your words. I guess I should be happy I have a seasonal job through Mollen (although I have no idea how that will work out for me). It's just that by now, I thought I would have a F/T job. I will try reconnecting with some old class mates again and see where that gets me. Oh yeah, just got turned down for another position yesterday. Seems everyone wants that elusive 1 year experience... Also, is there an area on this site where someone is willing to give me some pointers on my resume? The worker from Alliance Worknet said it looked great, but something isn't working. Also, I've had one, interview, if you can even call it an interview, it was sad. Seems like no one is hiring wherever I look.

Well, I think the title pretty much sums up my situation. Graduated in August 2011, passed NCLEX in December, and still no job. I've been a CNA since 2007, and I currently work as an ACNA in a hospital, per diem. I feel so useless. Everyone from my class thats employed, worked as a CNA there prior. My hospital does not utilize LVNs. I guess I just felt like venting. Any words or advice is appreciated.

It's true, changing to a plant based diet is not easy. It's a lifestyle change. It takes time. But most things in life aren't easy, and certainly not things that are worth it. You want to talk expensive? Meat is expensive, and causes a host of health issues, including cancer. Meatless meals: The benefits of eating less meat - MayoClinic.com Can a Plant-Based Diet Cure Cancer? - Oprah.com Quality food does cost money, especially when you buy organic. But buying and consuming quality food now saves money that would be used for healthcare related costs of the future, due to health issues from a lifetime of unhealthy eating. And like I said, meat is expensive. Fruits, vegetables, beans, rice, and other grains cost less than say, 1 lb of organic wild caught salmon. I'm a little confused when you mention 'unfounded science.' What are you referring to? Type 2 diabetes and the vegetarian diet PCRM | New Dietary Guidelines Back Plant-Based Diets to Fight Obesity http://tde.sagepub.com/content/36/1/33.abstract By the way, protein is present in all foods. Eat a variety of plant based foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes) and you will have no problem fulfilling the body's protein requirements. There are also soy and hemp based protein powders available, but they are usually unnecessary. Further more, "complete" plant-based proteins include soy, hemp, and quinoa. http://www.vrg.org/nutrition/protein.htm You mention a crusade. Are you referring to people who care about the health and well being of animals? Who hate to see living things "manufactured" and handled for what people see them as, a commodity? I'm sure you've had a pet before. You know animals have emotions, just as we do. I cannot support the cruel mistreatment of these creatures that cannot speak for themselves. Honestly, it disgusts me the amount of disconnect many people have with the other creatures of the Earth. Although I know there are many people don't share my viewpoint, I hope one day humanity will realize the effect of it's actions. "A nation and its moral progress can be judged on the way its animals are treated." -Mahatma Ghandi "Auschwitz begins wherever someone looks at a slaughterhouse and thinks: they're only animals." -Theodor Adorno (1903-1969) German Jewish philosopher forced into exile by the Nazis Please take time to view my links before you reply. Also, I wouldn't have gotten into the whole 'crusade' thing if you hadn't mentioned it first. Thanks

Yes, it is true, there are fat everyone. I'd say there is a good chance many vegetarians are overweight, since they do seem to eat more dairy than the average meat eater. As for your comment on veganism, I have to say I take some offense. Yes, there are plenty self righteous vegans, just as there are self righteous carnivores, omnivores, pescataraians, what have you. That does not mean someone who chooses to eat a plant based diet is stuck up, that would be making an assumption (an untrue one at that). Perhaps you take caring for all living creatures and their health and well being, as well as the environment, as someone who is stuck up (I don't). Also, I'm curious as to what you think of the health benefits of adopting a plant based diet, such as reversal of heart disease, weight loss, improved diabetes management. :)

I'm basically with the argument that being overweight or obese is unhealthy. If someone is like this, they most likely aren't giving their body the proper foods and nutrition it needs. I advocate for a completely plant based diet that focuses on whole foods. Raw, unprocessed foods are the best. When people stop eating animal products they start eating things the body actually needs (veggies, fruits, plant proteins, etc). And exercise is a must. These changes combined, I don't see how most people couldn't get down to a healthy state of being.

I agree with the comments about the non-existent job security. Also, I haven't officially worked as an LVN (I did recently get a seasonal job giving immunizations and have an interview tomorrow at a nursing home/rehab). I have worked as a CNA for almost 5 years (the last 2+ being in acute care). But, although it is a physically and emotionally tough profession, I do love nursing. Believe me, there's a lot of things I don't like to do, but I do love giving excellent care and making a difference in people's lives, however big or small it may be. Do what you want to do, what makes you happy. Nobody said nursing was easy, but it can sure be rewarding.

Congrats, and thank you for the positive words. I hope my day will come soon as well

Hello everyone, As a newly licensed nurse (passed NCLEX on 1/04/12) I've been looking for that first crucial nursing position. I've applied at about 15 places, did the callbacks, and so far only one place has a potential opening, and it's a a LTC/Rehab. Thing is, its on the night shift. I've never worked a night shift before (except a few years ago when I worked at the same facility as a CNA and would do doubles from PM shift) and for the last two and a half years I've worked day shift (12 hr) at the main hospital in town. I'm also going to school at JC finishing prereq's for an RN program. Should I take the noc position if I am offered? The DSD said he would look at my application and give me a call back. Maybe it would be better to take some time off from school to get the nursing experience I so badly need. I'm just worried I won't be able to make it, working nights, going to school, and working at least 1 day per week at the hospital. Any advice or encouragement will be greatly appreciated.

Will it be six digits? I guess I am just excited and want to include it on my resume for my job hunt. 1 @ Glenna thanks!

Things might be different because I'm from Cali, but... 1) I didn't have any trouble taking the state test shortly after completing all required hours (Within maybe a week?). This was back in 2007. 2) I went through the ROP program here and they set up all clinicals for us. Hope this helps in some way

Get a good nights sleep and HAVE CONFIDENCE in yourself. It might seem silly but remember to breathe and stay calm, being nervous will only be detrimental. Make sure you know what the question is asking before you answer it. You got this