I've felt kind of bummed about still working as an aide after graduation. Its not like I have the attitude that it is below me, because it isn't. We are all in this together, but I have gone through two years of nursing school to be doing new and different things.
The other day I found out I passed my NCLEX-PN . . . . I'm ecstatic!!!! Unfortunately I'll be working as an aide for probably another month. I am so bummed out right now. Has anyone else had to do this (I'm sure others have), but how did you deal.
Check with your state board of nursing. If you are an LPN, you have to always be an LPN at work - even if your job title is "CNA". You always have to work within the scope of your license. I'd find out the law in your state and talk to the DON asap.
be careful, you are held to the highest lic. that you possess, and since you havent been oriented to the nurse position, this puts you and your employer in a dicey position.....there has been at least one ex on this board where an aide was let go as soon as she passed her boards because she was now a risk.....good luck
And speaking of liability, if you don't already have it as a nursing student, then be sure to purchase your malpractice insurance immediately. If you have the insurance as a student, then contact your insurer, and inform them of your new license and get your policy upgraded.
We were hired right out of nursing school as LPN. The only requirement was that we had to have a letter saying that we were eligible to take the NCLEX. We were also hired at starting rate for LPN and got a 50 cent hourly raise after we got our license.
Specializes in Mostly LTC, some acute and some ER,.
The real bummer for me is that in this town . . . there is only one place to work . . . only one LTC which is connected to our only hospital. So I can't quit . . . and I don't think I would if I had the option. I practically grew up in that place. So 'll be working there, which will also be difficult as some situations came about. (Not going into detail, unless you really want to know the whole story) And I have reacted poorly to these situations which has caused a few of the aides to loose respect for me, and it may be very hard to gain it back. I really want to start where I basically know the routine I'd be doing, and there are a lot of people willing to help me. The reason I am still working as an aide, is they are finding replacements for my CNA shifts. It may be soon, and it may not be, but it's still kind of mentally difficult for me.
I really want to start where I basically know the routine I'd be doing, and there are a lot of people willing to help me.
I made the same decision as you.
I'm in an ADN program, but took classes over the summer so I could take my LVN board exam. The hospital where I did clinicals really wanted me to apply. I decided to stay in the dialysis clinic I've been working in for 2 years. Even though I could make more money in the hospital, I'm already familiar with the clinic, I have a good relationship with the staff, and my boss is very supportive and works with me, letting me work the hours I want. Plus I didn't want to cope with learning a new job while I'm still in nursing school.
I think you're doing the right thing. Just hang in there until you can start your nursing job. It'll be worth it. I promise.
I worked as an aide for an additional three weeks before my job started orientation for me as an LPN. It happens. And, it is not a big thing. You will get a job as soon eventually, but you do have to eat and support yourself for now.
Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
The real bummer for me is that in this town . . . there is only one place to work . . . only one LTC which is connected to our only hospital. So I can't quit . . . and I don't think I would if I had the option. I practically grew up in that place. So 'll be working there, which will also be difficult as some situations came about. (Not going into detail, unless you really want to know the whole story) And I have reacted poorly to these situations which has caused a few of the aides to loose respect for me, and it may be very hard to gain it back. I really want to start where I basically know the routine I'd be doing, and there are a lot of people willing to help me. The reason I am still working as an aide, is they are finding replacements for my CNA shifts. It may be soon, and it may not be, but it's still kind of mentally difficult for me.
Thank you all so much for all your input.
I'd like to hear your story if you are willing to share it. I think I can understand a bit of how you are thinking of remaining at this place, because my hospital sponsored my education by giving me leave with pay to become an LPN, with paid tuition. I just had to wait for the next orientation date, which was three weeks away. Also, I am on contract with them for three years because of this opportunity.
I don't know what happened between you and the aides, but what I can say is to be patient. You mentioned that you cannot work elsewhere, and this place is familiar to you; the same as I when I started. Wait for them to iron out their difficulties and hire you. If you are a bit resentful of working as an aide, keep in mind that the worst is really over...you completed the course and passed NCLEX. The aides may pick up on your feelings and may be a bit jealous, or think that you believe you are above them at this point. If possible, apologize to them and explain your actions. Most people can be forgiving.
Another thing I can say is that at times, being a nurse, you may actually envy the aides, because the level of responsibility is much deeper. Transitioning from being a CNA to nurse can be very difficult at times. I like being a nurse, have received many opportunities as an LPN that were not previously available to me, but, I do get overwhelmed! And, a good CNA is worth her weight in gold because sometimes, they see things before we do. Good luck!
Specializes in Mostly LTC, some acute and some ER,.
I'd like to hear your story if you are willing to share it. I think I can understand a bit of how you are thinking of remaining at this place, because my hospital sponsored my education by giving me leave with pay to become an LPN, with paid tuition. I just had to wait for the next orientation date, which was three weeks away. Also, I am on contract with them for three years because of this opportunity.
I don't know what happened between you and the aides, but what I can say is to be patient. You mentioned that you cannot work elsewhere, and this place is familiar to you; the same as I when I started. Wait for them to iron out their difficulties and hire you. If you are a bit resentful of working as an aide, keep in mind that the worst is really over...you completed the course and passed NCLEX. The aides may pick up on your feelings and may be a bit jealous, or think that you believe you are above them at this point. If possible, apologize to them and explain your actions. Most people can be forgiving.
Another thing I can say is that at times, being a nurse, you may actually envy the aides, because the level of responsibility is much deeper. Transitioning from being a CNA to nurse can be very difficult at times. I like being a nurse, have received many opportunities as an LPN that were not previously available to me, but, I do get overwhelmed! And, a good CNA is worth her weight in gold because sometimes, they see things before we do. Good luck!
Thank you very much. I sent you a message with more details.
:banghead:
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caliotter3
38,333 Posts
If you really need the income, then continue with the job. But actively begin your job search. And, not to forget, CONGRATULATIONS!!!