lheinzelmann

Hi, I need some advice/guidance. I graduated last December from an LPN program (Dec 2011), and currently work part time at a pediatric office. I am also in school in an ADN program (I transferred in with my PN credits half way through), anticipating to graduate with my RN in May 2013 (only one semester left). My problem is, I have been talking with my clinical instructor and she says I am having difficulty transitioning from a "LPN brain" to an "RN brain". She says that I gather very good data, but she says I am having trouble taking that next step...I have always had difficulty with nursing diagnoses, as we never really went over much of that in PN school, as LPN's are not required to plan care. Do you think I should just study up on a bunch of nursing diagnoses? Or, am I missing something else? Need some advice from LPN to RN grads out there...what is that "next step" you need to take? Any answers are appreciated! Thanks!!

I am currently enrolled in an ADN program possibly interested in Psych ED nursing, as I am going through that rotation right now in school. Just wondering if I could get some more information from experienced psych nurses...Is there any market for new grad nurses in a psych ED? What kinds of skills/competencies do you need to have? I have heard medical skills are not really used on a psych ED? What is the orientation period like/how long? Do you need any additional certificates (like acls?)? Thanks!!