New LPN who feels unprepared for bedside nursing

Seeking Advice

I recently passed my NCLEX-PN on July 31 and got my LPN license. Now that I’m actually looking for LPN jobs, I’m realizing I don’t feel very confident with basic hands-on patient care/CNA skills. Part of me wants to work as a CNA for a bit first to build my confidence, but I also wonder if I should just start as an LPN with a good orientation (hopefully).
I worked full-time as a hospital janitor throughout nursing school because, at the time, I thought it was the best low-stress decision for me. Now I’m wondering if that decision left me less prepared for the hands-on side of nursing.
Am I overthinking this, or should I just jump in?

Posted Aug 13, 2026, 4:58 PM UTC

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