What should I bring with me on my first day in LTC?

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Tomorrow is my first day at my new job as an LPN and I was wondering what are some of your daily items that you bring to work with you other than a stethoscope, pen, mini note pad, pen light, bandage scissors, first aid kit, pulse ox, b/p cuff, etc. I am just trying to get an idea so I am not over/under prepared. Thanks again for all of your help

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
Tomorrow is my first day at my new job as an LPN and I was wondering what are some of your daily items that you bring to work with you other than a stethoscope, pen, mini note pad, pen light, bandage scissors, first aid kit, pulse ox, b/p cuff, etc. I am just trying to get an idea so I am not over/under prepared. Thanks again for all of your help
A tape measure might come in handy to measure the calf of a resident that appears swollen (possible DVT). Some nurses like wearing fanny packs to keep their personal items 'on their person' at all times. Otherwise, I think you already have most of the supplies that you'll need.
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Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

Congratulations on your job! A few pens and a notebook are really all you should bring. Leave the first aid kit in your car. If the facility doesn't have enough bandaids and gauze, it's time to go! You shouldn't bring your own pulse ox or blood pressure cuff since most places don't allow those items since all medical equipment should be calibrated properly.

Most of all, bring your energy, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.

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Specializes in Rehab.

I also bought a electronic bp cuff, cuz my facility only has manual ones and with that pt load you will be pumping people up all day, all the nurses have their own, it saves a ton of time, which you wont have any to spare, just make sure it says nursing home approved, good luck, by the way i got mine from walmart, the wrist one for 60 bucks, they do have cheaper ones also, oh and take notes on how to do everything, from oredering labs to faxing things to the pharmacy, my notes helped me greatly, i keep my little notebook with me all thhe time, then i dont have to ask next time about what i need to do cuz i have it all written down

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Specializes in LTC, Hospice, Case Management.

As soon as you reasonably can (without looking like an idiot - ie: don't make this the very first thing you say. LOL :)), ask for some type of census sheet or report sheet. Something with every residents name and room number on that one paper. This will help you find people as well as making your own little cheat sheet to help you remember everyone. ie: RM 101-1 Minny Mouse -Cute smile/CHF/DM RM 102 - John Doe - whiskers/BKA, etc.

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Specializes in Hem/Onc/BMT.

I like to have a clipboard to keep all the loose pieces of paper together, like pharmacy refill order sheet, assignment sheet, lab reports to follow up, etc. I used to keep my own copies of frequently-used documentation forms as well because searching for them when you need them wastes so much time. It became moot when the facility switched to computer charting.

LTC orientation can be hectic. Bring your inner zen.

Congratulations and good luck!!

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Congrats on the new job!

My first day as an LPN in LTC... biggest help: note pad, resident list/report sheet, drug book, list of phone numbers. The biggest problem I ran into, was leaving enough time to chart at the end of shift. Making notes and keeping up with your charting will really help. Good luck! :)

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Specializes in LTC.

An open mind, a boatload of patience and lots of pens. A bottle of water and snacks wouldn't be a bad idea either.

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i would make sure elctronic cuffs are ok. i worked in a ltc facility here in florida and they DID NOT allow these. engrave and label your equipment. thieves unfortunately exist. bandage scissors are also good. the angled type are ideal when working with ltc patients not sure if that was mentioned. i always carry my own had sanitizer. sharpie markers for labeling dressing with your initials and date changed are a good supply to have on hand. i also brought my own coffee mug. dont become too close to staff. unfortunatley like thieves there are backstabbers as well. and remember those people you are taking care of is someones mother father grandmother grandfather, etc. best wishes on your new endeavor and welcome to the field.

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Definitely bring more than one pen:)

Also... I find a sharpie always comes in handy!

Good luck!

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Specializes in LTC.

I keep three pens, one sharpie, one highlighter and scissors on me at all times. I used to bring a stethoscope with me, but I don't use it often enough so I leave it in my bag.

I don't bring any equipment. Our facility is nicely equipped and the cna's do vitals for me anyways.

You definitely need a sense of humor, your brain (sometimes I forget mine!), teamwork skills and a good work ethic. Also, trust your schooling. I didn't have a lot of confidence at first, but things just came to me after a while. Things I didn't think I even knew.

Welcome! I love my job.

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You seem ready :) Good luck!

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