Starting job as LPN (HELP) !!!!!!!

dbsn00 · Feb 9, 2008

Relax...this is what orientation is for. You'll (hopefully) be with an experienced & patient nurse who will show what you need to know & the correct way to do it. Bring a notebook & use it - ask questions, write down vital info on your patients for charting later, etc.. At my facility (LTC) you would "shadow" the nurse the first few days - basically watch & learn from what she does. Then you would start to give medications (with your precepter right there with you) & learn wound care & various treatments. We train on charting, picking up MD orders, etc. last because it's too overwhelming to start learning everything all at once. You'll probably have to do a final med pass with the Director, unit manager or pharmacy consultant & some wound care before they "turn you loose".

The important thing while in orientation is to take your time, ask questions & try to develope a routine that you can manage. Just remember, you will not be perfect, you will make errors & you will NOT have good time management as a new nurse so don't be surprised when you're not done with everything at the end of your shift & don't give up! You'll learn something new everyday & how to apply it to your routines. Always ask for help when you need it or if you don't feel that you've mastered a particular skill, be honest about your mistakes & be willing to learn from them. Time management, good nursing skills & thorough documentation come with experience so take advantage when a experienced nurse can help you. Good luck to you! :nurse:

aviahhasmyheart · Feb 9, 2008

wow that was awesome thanx for your help!!!:redpinkhe:up:

aviahhasmyheart · Feb 13, 2008

I asked this before but didnt get very many responses sooooo please somebody tell me what the orientation at your job as an LPN consisted of ? Was there a test, some kind of way to show your skills? Anything u can remember PLEASE SHARE !!!! Thanx !

Fiona59 · Feb 14, 2008

Well, if you haven't done a meds calculation test, they will probably have you write one.

Usually, the first day is shadow a "buddy" nurse to learn the unit routine. Day two you work with a couple of patients. Any skills you are unsure of discuss with your buddy. Days 3-5 are usually the same.

As a graduate PN, it is expected that you know your skills and meds. The orientation is to show you the routines of the unit, where items are kept, and what is expected of you.

Ask lots of questions and be yourself.

Good Luck

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Feb 14, 2008

In my area, new LPN job orientation depends on whether you're orienting at an acute care hospital or a nursing home. These two types of healthcare facilities operate on drastically different standards, principles, and monetary budgets.

In my area, new LVNs usually get a lengthy hospital orientation, typically 8 weeks or longer. The orientation consists of preceptorship (an experienced buddy), learning the policies and procedures, and so forth. Acute care hospitals are owned by corporations with deep pockets, so they can provide thorough orientations to new LPNs.

In my area, new LVNs usually receive a very short orientation in the nursing home setting, as these facilities typically do not have the budget for lengthy training or preceptorship. The average nursing home orientation in my area is 3 days. You are to become acquainted with the paperwork, policies and procedures, med pass, treatments, and the residents.

I have only had to take a med calculation test once, and this was for a psychiatric hospital.

Kashia, ASN, LVN · Feb 14, 2008

you can expect to be totally freaked out, overwhelmed, confused, and feeling incompetent. Or, you won't. Either way, you'll get through it.

If you aren't making mistakes then you aren't engaging and learning.

One of my biggest challenges were some of the other nurses, personality control issues. But also some supportive, helpful towards your goal of learning the art and skill of nursing.

remember ithis is a life situation, not who you are.

Breathe.

And smile smile smile :- )

best to you