livvymk3

The practical nursing program I attended did not teach IV insertion. We were able to DC IVs, spike a bag, and prime tubing, assess and monitor the site, etc in clinical once we passed off these skills in lab. After PN graduation we were able to attend an IV certification class taught by our same instructors where we learned insertions, drip rates, blood draws etc. However, we did not receive our IV certification on paper until we took NCLEX and obtained our license. This was in Utah so I'm sure it varies from state to state.

I have been an LPN for 2 1/2 years. The going rate for new grads in Utah is around $14/hour DOE. I snagged a job 2 months after passing NCLEX at $16/hour at an ALF where I had worked off and on as a CNA for 7 years. No benefits, but hours were flexible and I had a baby 5 days after I was hired so it worked perfectly for me. I just moved to North Dakota where they are in desperate need of nurses, both LPNs and RNs and I have seen starting wages for LPNs $16/hour DOE at hospitals, clinics, and SNFs.

I am the LPN at an ALF. I am overseen by an RN who has to sign off on all meds I add/discontinue to the MAR and is responsible for the initial and 6 month assessments. The CNAs/aides are trained to assist in passing medications after I have checked them in from the pharmacy or set them up in med sets per MD orders. Our facility is fairly small (16 resident capacity.) I am always "on-call," meaning I can be called for med questions, falls, changes in order from MDs, etc. In my 11+ years in AL, it has been my experience that the residence runs fairly well with the aides; really no need for 24/7 nursing. :)

LOVE my Skechers for Work Tone-Ups clog; I have them in white and black. They are super-light and super-comfy; feet do not feel half as tired after a 12 hour shift as with other shoes. Good luck!

CONGRATS!!! I remember how excited I was when I found out I was accepted! It is long, hard work but so worth it in the end!!

I think it depends on facility policy. Years ago when I worked at a nursing home as a CNA, we were allowed to chart VS and ADLs in patient charts; that's it. Now as a nurse, that same facility has a completely separate system for the CNAs to chart their info; only nurses may write nursing notes in the chart.

Please don't give up on nursing!! I think it's safe to say that almost every nurse has made a med error or two in their career! Don't beat yourself up over it; and I have no doubt you will check orders right away before doing anything else from now on :) We all learn from our mistakes! Good luck!