Putting things together...

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Specializes in LTC.

I'm a new LPN working my first job at a SNF for three and a half months now. I work 11-7 and am assigned to 40 residents. I love my job and think the night shift is the perfect place for me. I just don't put things together like the more experienced nurses. For example I had a resident c/o back pain. I just thought she was stiff from lying in bed at night and gave her a PRN pain pill as she asked. The day shift nurse got a u/a on her and she had a UTI. I should have thought of this but just didn't put it together. Is this kind of thing normal at this point?

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Now you will be evaluating for possible UTIs when someone complains of back pain. The way I see it, each day is a learning experience, especially when you are new :). I learn something new every time I work, and I am grateful for that!

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I did something like that during my nursing program practical labs. The lab instructor took time to fully explain to us the importance of a thorough assessment. Flank pain especially during urination, elevated temperature, all of that. But with 40 patients, it would be difficult for a comprehensive assessment. Just make sure to cover all bases by asking more questions and stringing the information together. You will be fine. Trust me, IT HAPPENS TO THE BEST OF US ;p

Good luck darling

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