What to do on your first week job as new grad LVN?

Floor_Nurse · Jul 23, 2019

Although the numerous tasks might seem a bit daunting at first, you've been training for this. Much of your work will be reading the MAR's and giving meds. You already know which meds have parameters (BP, pulse etc.). Never give a med without a Dr.'s order first. Try to get the same hall every day so that you learn a routine. Never rely on other nurses or CNA's to cover your back... They aren't there to be your friend! If you're in a rush to do charting you may want to use "cookie cutter" documentation ... "Breathing even & unlabored, skin warm & dry with no cyanosis, vitals within normal limits, etc.)

Some nurses here at Allnurses will object to cookie cutter notes, but at least it's better than no documentation at all. Always work as if you're on camera and someone will be looking back over everything you did. In other words, cover your tail.

ginaolive823 · Aug 9, 2019

Google any medication you are giving and do not know, number one you will learn that med, and number two you will be safely administering and knowing if you need a blood pressure or anything. It takes two seconds to google a med. Don’t rush as a new nurse - take your time and read orders completely. Do not be afraid to ask for help - I called my fellow nurses so many times a day but at least I knew I was doing things correctly. Write down things you need to do every shift in your notebook. Do not skimp on charting. Take your time. Never chart for anyone else. Never give meds for another nurse if she hands them to you no matter how nice they are to you. Go slow with your narcotics and don’t let any patient or staff rush you. Again - never ever be afraid to ask for help or questions on how to do something correctly! ?