new to site, starting nursing course in 5 days!

[areid14]

Hi all, im a 18 year old male and im starting my first semester as a LPN in 5 days. Im confident I can provide stellar healthcare to my patients. The only thing that is bothering me is that if my patients don't respect me, perhaps because i am a male in a "female dominated profession", it will be a pain in the ass. Any tips or suggestions?
thanks!

[AmandaWIRN]

I have found that for those who provide stellar care, gender is not an issue. Patients will most likely be more focused on your knowledge & skill level, and your self-confidence rather than your gender. If you are self-conscious about being a male in a traditionally female-dominated profession, that may come across to patients and co-workers as being less than confident in your abilities. Just jump right in, and don't think about gender! There will always be those who are going to judge people based on gender, appearance, race, etc. Don't take it personally- it's their issue, not yours.

[cougarnurse]

Welcome to the site! Of course, you'll catch some flak just being a student, but with time-----you'll get there.

So how long is your program?

[areid14]

thanks! its a 12 month course with 1 month preceptorships in between semesters. After i complete this im hopefully going to transfer to the RN course which is 3 years to obtain your degree

[cali510]

:60: Welcome to the site. As long as you focus on the task at hand and the needs of the patient, you should be able to handle anything that comes your way.