tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70672554077696387802024-03-19T01:21:54.398-07:00Midlife Nursing CrisisJuryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-10782012053459699032018-01-12T08:10:00.000-08:002018-01-12T08:11:15.706-08:00Precepting/Orienting Nurses<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A couple of years ago, I was asked to orient a new hire on my floor and was excited as she was a grad from my alma mater, so we had the same frame of reference. She was excited because she had always wanted to work in psych. I felt great knowing she was going to be on a somewhat quiet unit, instead of an acute one, like I did.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, I began to orient her to the unit, citing procedures, treatments, and daily practices at nauseam. She caught on very quickly, and was doing so well. On our last day together, I turned her loose to do it on her own, and she was excellent!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However.....(you knew there would be something) two days off of orientation, she gets pulled to another unit. Not only does she get pulled, they require her to be a nurse's aid. Not only does she have to be a nurse's aid, they place her with a very psychotic patient. Not good. She begins to cry. They place her with another patient, it does not make her happy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76tDr3yMh4XXURzF0nnO1b9O4bYNYyX3yd0VdPvWzPzlpKQX_UdwjR6cGJ3uOUEMBt6AAHMgjhWAGnAoUFFh28LN3wz8BNFUOMx94FP-C4Ytlc5CoCb2CkSdedLdWnIle7-YpPbhRGY3s/s1600/nurse+preceptor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76tDr3yMh4XXURzF0nnO1b9O4bYNYyX3yd0VdPvWzPzlpKQX_UdwjR6cGJ3uOUEMBt6AAHMgjhWAGnAoUFFh28LN3wz8BNFUOMx94FP-C4Ytlc5CoCb2CkSdedLdWnIle7-YpPbhRGY3s/s320/nurse+preceptor.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I guess my spidey-sense went off, even though I had not seen her since orientation. My co-workers began to tell me some troubling things: she is not on the floor very much, and is seen constantly on her phone. She won't take off orders, help with treatments, or basic patient care. "Hmmmmm," I thought, "maybe she's quitting?" In my typical fashion, I just asked her, "Are you going to keep working here?" She mumbled an answer about not being a psych nurse the rest of her life, and averted my eyes. Yep, she's a goner. The next day I had asked someone who knows everything at the facility and they confirmed my suspicion that she had turned in her notice. I took it kind of personally. "Maybe I didn't give her enough training or support?". I found out later that she went to another job and stayed there only 3 weeks before she turned in her notice, too. I felt a lot better after knowing that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After that experience, I took a precepting course offered by my facility so I would get a little more per hour for training new hires. Over the course of two years, I've probably oriented 10 different people. Some were straight out of school, others just picking up for extra money. I've had a few that were lazy, and some that were very ambitious, wanting to try their hand at every skill, gross or not. My alma mater also has brought me some about to be grads who need to precept their 120 hours with a nurse before taking NCLEX. Those are my favorites! I just love seeing a new nurse with all that positivity in their eyes. And they think you know EVERYTHING! Ha!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you ever get the chance to precept/orient, take it! I used to think that having a student would be an awful burden and experience, but you learn things from them, too! (I had an orientee that showed me a trick changing ostomies that has keep me from making a horrible mess that I'm forever grateful for.)</span><br />
<br />Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-81016287058655599472017-05-08T07:06:00.001-07:002017-05-08T07:06:47.137-07:00Let's make it as painful as possible.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, if you haven't been tuned in, this is the ongoing saga of "Will She or Won't She Return to Nursing school?" Last November, I withdrew from my Med-Surg 2 class. I just couldn't get past a 73 on the exams. After a month of consideration, I decided to try to go back.<br />
There had been 6 of us, from a class of 19, who did not make it. One had decided he was done, and did not want to go back. Another had not completed a prerequisite that she had agreed to, so they said she could not apply.<br />
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Then there were four. I started studying with another classmate kind of "online", meaning we lived too far apart to meet up so we Facetime-d, a lot. Not sure if I told you: basically, to get back in, we had to take the final from the PREVIOUS semester that we had already passed. The exact final we had taken a year prior.<br />
It wasn't going in to take the test that was hard, it was facing the class I should have graduated with. I was hoping we wouldn't have to see them, but we had wait outside the door that was across from their classroom. We were invited in one particularly sweet classmate who encouraged us to come in and say hi. Other than 1 classmate, nobody said anything. No eye contact, no looking in my direction. Even the teacher that had encouraged me to come back was a little aloof. I am not sure what I expected, but some I spoke to, (that I had felt we were pretty good friends before) wouldn't even speak.<br />
The four of us went in to take the test. I was surprised that I remembered so much. Ended up with an 84. My friend who studied with me got an 80, but our other two friends didn't make it.<br />
So, now we have a check off. We will draw a skill out of a hat and have to perform it on demand. BUT, before we can do that, we must be voted on by committee to be able to return. Committee meets tomorrow, (Tuesday), I work Thursday and Friday, and the email I received from the Dean indicated my check off must be done this week prior to faculty going on Summer vacation. I figured they'd make it as painful as possible to return, but they wouldn't even let me tentatively schedule the check off for Wednesday. Sigh......I'll let you know how it turns out.Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-46271699729043957302016-11-30T09:40:00.002-08:002016-11-30T09:40:34.877-08:00End of the road.....for now at least<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I didn't make it this semester. There were lots of variables, but in the end, the problem was me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had a split semester, 5 weeks in OB and the rest med-surg. Our teacher was new to us and the college for OB and I thought she did a great job. However, the board of nursing in my state required that she take some "workshops" since she was new. Probably should have been done over the summer because then she would have been ready to teach us. However, the main campus, in another city, did not have time to do these workshops. So, we were treated to what they call I-TV. Essentially, you watch on a big television the instructor at the other campus. It probably would have been fine had we EVER had the teachers at the other campus, but no. So, first test....I failed it. I was concerned then, but preserved. Then came the second test, only point higher. At this point, I am reevaluating all my study techniques and wondering how to do get a passing score. Then the third. Same result, although I studied 67 hours. I'm wondering if I'm too old school for I-TV, but I did online classes without any problem. Made A's, in fact.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The material was half a ream of paper printed. And we studied together, family helped, but the 4th test happened Monday, and I failed that one, too. So, I would have to make a 90 on the cumulative final. Since I couldn't even get an 80, the likelihood of getting a 90 was pretty obvious to me: it wasn't going to happen. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had asked my husband to not travel that day in case I didn't make it. Of course, he had to. So, I am withdrawing in about an hour. I was not alone: in a class of 20, 6 of us did not make it- so far.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It could've been the 8 hours a week traveling to and from the school, paired with working every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 12 hour shifts. And maybe I was too exhausted to get the material in my head. It could be I'm just not cut out to do this. Having a teenager with some medical problems, husband promoted in his job which requires him to travel once a week, and just plain ole trying to keep my job. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't have a clue what is next for me. The class will be offered next September, and if accepted, I can pick up where I left off. Do I really want to go back to this school? They claim they will not be using I-TV, and the teacher I had for OB will be teaching all of it. She was/is an excellent teacher. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I just don't know what to do for the future, but in the meantime, I guess I will get back to my life. Already got a dentist appointment, (haven't been in a year because of school), and managed to throw out my back yesterday, so I'm going to "nurse" myself back to health.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If I'm going back, and I'm not sure I am, I need to figure out how to memorize LARGE quantities of material, and DEFINITELY get a grip on med calculations. Our class really reeked on that one.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, thanks for listening. All two of you ;)</span>Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-20793132672356649842016-06-03T07:26:00.003-07:002016-06-06T17:40:25.794-07:00Summer School......really?Uh, yeah, for the third time in 20 years, I have to take Intro to Computers. For real?? It's not that I mind, it's that I don't think in this day and time it's necessary. What I would have liked to have taken would be that last pharmacology online. It would have saved me time in these last two semesters.<br />
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To be fair, the guy is pretty on task. He walks you though it step by step via Youtube and if you mess up, it's your own fault. Easy A. But an expensive one....$500.<br />
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Don't laugh, but I went to Half Price Books and bought the previous editions of the textbook for OB so I could get a head start. That class is only 5 weeks, so that means a test every week. Ewwwww....... plus clinicals, which require a stupid care plan. I've already started on those, just to be waiting in the wings for when I'm time crunched. What do you do to prepare for the next semester of nursing school?Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-48710954614041585042016-05-07T11:57:00.000-07:002016-05-07T12:11:17.575-07:00What I learned the first semester of RN schoolSome things I learned fresh. Others I re-learned.<br />
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I've always been a fan of Top Ten lists so here's my list for this past semester:<br />
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10. <b style="text-decoration: underline;">It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be.</b> I guess going in with 18 months of prior school knowledge as well as almost 3 years as an LPN helped, but common sense kicked in, (which I hoped it would) so those NCLEX type questions were a lot easier to handle.<br />
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9. <u><b>I still hate ATI as much as I did back in LPN school.</b></u> I hate paying for something that I can't fully use. I have subjects I'd like to start working on and they "aren't open" . Well, why the heck not? I have to pay $400 a semester and not be able to use it all? They are trippin'......<br />
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8. <b><u>I don't stay up all night and study anymore.</u></b> Maybe that sounds selfish, but it's true: I'm old....I need my sleep. The one time I did stay up all night, it did me no good, anyway.<br />
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7. <b><u>Clinical days still aren't fun</u></b> because no nurse in their right mind wants to have a student for the day. They were nice to me. But I could tell this wasn't on their to do list. To be fair, it won't be on mine, either.<br />
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6. <b><u>Technology has certainly advanced things.</u></b> I still paper chart at work, but I got to electronically chart during clinicals. It does seem monotonous though....it's also nice to be able to record my lectures on my cell phone and listen to them back and forth from school to home.<br />
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5. <b><u>I have forgotten so much about IV's since I don't use them at work.</u></b> If someone needs an IV at my job, we send them out. Still haven't stuck my first victim...I mean, patient....<br />
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4. <u style="font-weight: bold;">Working every week-end full time blows....</u> but when your work is PAYING 6 hours a semester, and you need the insurance, you go. You hate it, but you go. I worked every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. On Mondays and Wednesdays I was in lecture, Tuesdays was lab, and Thursdays were clinicals. I am glad I saved my vacation days to use on the Sundays before an exam. I'm going to need to bank some this summer for my second semester as well. My schedule will go back to normal starting Monday.<br />
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3. <b><u>It's still important to make friends in nursing school.</u></b> After my friend left, I started studying with a guy who had an even weirder schedule than the first one. I found myself meeting him at McDonald's at 5:30 AM to study. Must of been nuts, but we both passed.<br />
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2. <b><u>It's awful when your BS meter goes off </u></b>and you notice the teacher not trying. Yes, I am saying she was blowing smoke in a place you don't want to talk about. I'm not that far from her age, so I know she knew, that I knew she was just getting tenure. She read from the book because she didn't know the material. Our last 3 lectures on diabetes, which is fairly involved, she got guest speakers to talk to us. Wow... how lame can you get? It made me want to stay in school to have the credentials to take her job....almost. I'm so done with school.<br />
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1. <b><u>My family is still there helping me through.</u></b> ( Mostly Hunnybunny) However, they still don't get me on the whole studying thing. I thought maybe my kids would be proud of me. But they think I'm wasting my time. It's okay. While I'd like to have their support and approval, its just not necessary.<br />
<br />Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-11010422176448414572016-02-23T21:41:00.000-08:002016-02-23T21:41:01.393-08:00First casualty of war<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been notably silent...which is not like me. That's because all I do is go to work, study, eat, and do it all over again. It's been fine until now. The person who was accepted along with me didn't get to advance to the next 11 weeks. I felt alot like Katniss this past semester.Just jumping through hoops. But the best part is I had a friend jumping with me. We knew no one but each other walking in that first day. And thankfully, the group accepted us pretty easily as they had already made friends in the first semester we were exempt from. He was liked by all, even to the point when we found out he didn't make it, one of the others cried. He never expected to be thought of that highly, but why, I don't know. He has 20 year of LPN experience, and knows his stuff. He just didn't test well. I don't either, by the way. He only missed it by 2 points.<br />
I took it pretty hard the first few days because I couldn't imagine how bad he felt. For our clinical group, it's been like someone has died. But we're coming around.<br />
Hunnybunny didn't really understand. He tried to, but he couldn't really get the whole "nurses in the trenches" vibe. The more he tried to encourage me, the worst I felt. I wasn't trying to make it about me, but I kept thinking, "If HE didn't make it, what makes me think I will?"<br />
So, I'm trying to remember what I did the first time. Pouring over my notes, and finding my notes from LPN school invaluable! Apparently, this particular program doesn't go into too much depth on stuff, so in a sense, we are educating ourselves. And I will revert back to what I said in a previous post: my learning style is my problem. If I can't figure it out by now, what am I doing here?<br />
Y'all are going to have to overlook me....I am just trying to stay realistic.<br />
The ATI demon is back with this program. How I HATE ATI! And if you're reading this and have no idea what I'm talking about, consider yourself lucky. ATI prides itself on preparing you for NCLEX. But all I can see is that its taking us all away from what we should be doing....studying!<br />
I will get off my soapbox now, and take off my black mourners veil and get back to work. Thanks for listening.<br />
<br />Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-73638153345043059262016-01-04T10:30:00.000-08:002016-01-04T07:18:41.499-08:00A week from today....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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.....I will be sitting in a classroom for the upmteenth time. It's hilarious and incredulous to me that I am doing this again. I mean, 240 college hours, PLUS the new ones I'm about to acquire? Shoot, I could be Dr. Beth by now. But alas, I'm just getting yet another Associates degree. (I have two of them. This will be number 3)<br />
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The part that bothers me is the whole unknown thing again....what's the class going to be like? Am I going to be the oldest in the class? Is my brain going to run on all cylinders?<br />
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I'm thankful that one of my coworkers has been accepted with me. It's kind of a drive, so we are going to carpool. He's an older student, like me, so he's pretty serious about doing this.<br />
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I'm going today to get the UGLY white scrubs I will need for clinicals and a new pair of sneakers. Books are bought, but I probably need to see about some school supplies.<br />
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Truthfully, I get nauseated every time I think about this. Is that normal, or just me overreacting? I made it through medical microbiology with a B, which shocked me to death, but I'm just sort of second-guessing myself. Maybe it's the work schedule that has me very anxious. I will be working every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday this semester. If the last few days are any indication, it will be challenging. My comrades and I ran all weekend long trying to keep up with everything. And they are awesome because they have both gone further in school and are a great support!<br />
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Anyway......wish me luck! I will need it.Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-89947345787183249702015-12-03T05:34:00.001-08:002015-12-03T05:34:02.463-08:00I'm in!<div style="text-align: left;">
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I actually found out via text I had been harassing my husband everyday when he checks the mail, "Did my letter come?" This last time, I had been told by the dean the letters would be sent out soon, and the mail didn't run on Veteran's Day. So, I thought it might run early and Hunnybunny needed to get out there and check. I waited. And waited. And waited. Finally, got this text, "You've been accepted". I just sort of stared at the screen, asking myself, "I'm awake, right?" I made him take a picture of the letter and message me with it. He told me congratulations, but I think I was still in shock. <br />
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I'm excited but still wondering how an old girl like me is going to pull off classes and work and do either of them any justice. I will be in classes Monday through Wednesday, and a clinical either Thursday or Friday. So that means the one day a week I'm not in school, I'm working and then I'm working every weekend. Yeah, I know....I must be crazy. But working the weekend doesn't really bother me that much. Missing out on family time, now that bothers me. This isn't my first rodeo, I remember my non-existent social life back in 2011-2012. But they say it will all be worth it. I hope THEY are right. It helps that I'm not doing this alone. A guy I work with got accepted, too. It's kind of a hike to the school, so he and I are going to carpool.<br />
Anyway, that's the story as I know it so far. My first rotation is psych...at my own hospital! I'm hoping that I'm not recognized by any long time patients who are not going to understand why I could do something for them yesterday (as an LPN) that I can't do today, (as a student)<br />
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Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-58779635215516171712015-10-21T05:59:00.000-07:002015-10-21T05:59:17.063-07:00Admission Limbo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhap_71TH0Qy9Oyan31VZVszVVdhJzDD3nf8hJ0IzWavaBon6mdMAbcTNkqytvfKtvYxGu12bjVyRvtQHkdPOSllUieBWMmpeYwWnOtLYgr4m_Q51IUWMG2Pn1nUoZMZacroN9DGZjaA5Tp/s1600/twrlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhap_71TH0Qy9Oyan31VZVszVVdhJzDD3nf8hJ0IzWavaBon6mdMAbcTNkqytvfKtvYxGu12bjVyRvtQHkdPOSllUieBWMmpeYwWnOtLYgr4m_Q51IUWMG2Pn1nUoZMZacroN9DGZjaA5Tp/s320/twrlogo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
So, I'm just waiting to hear...I went to the pre-admission conference with a guy from work who is determined that we are going to nursing school together. I had already turned in my stuff, but you are required to attend their, "this is what will happen in 3 semesters, and this is what it will cost," speech. It's going to be pricey, that's for sure. My work will pay for 6 hours, but that still leaves like 21 hours. Only 2 classes, but they get you with a required lab and a clinical for each. The clinicals add up to 12 extra hours....<br />
Meanwhile, Medical Microbiology is kicking my butt. I had forgotten how much I hated taking a science class, but it's all coming back to me now. It's not lecture, it's the lab. I messed up my test by not staining the correct side, broke a slide. Just a comedy of errors. And I had gone in feeling good about the whole thing. I barely passed by the skin of my teeth.<br />
Anyway, will keep you posted.....Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-16599758726195458542015-07-31T00:35:00.000-07:002015-07-31T09:38:00.064-07:00So, here we go.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLozQErN7C36S6hGr4nquaIYp_pv0w2GLomFZEg2aZ3qGlPKg_7sWkTw28SWh9TsvsDiw0O2XD9R3ByucwgtBKTgCEQTgZwITZSrFJSQJFJZAbVN_SUxi4BizK0AO2vl7pDy2pO9IcP-O_/s1600/joker+nurse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLozQErN7C36S6hGr4nquaIYp_pv0w2GLomFZEg2aZ3qGlPKg_7sWkTw28SWh9TsvsDiw0O2XD9R3ByucwgtBKTgCEQTgZwITZSrFJSQJFJZAbVN_SUxi4BizK0AO2vl7pDy2pO9IcP-O_/s400/joker+nurse.jpg" width="400" /></a>So, I finally heard back from the university. The director of the program basically said my A & P was "too old" (not within 3 years) and I would need to retake those classes along with chemistry. Tack on the NACE test to that, while you're at it, too. Uh, no thanks....I don't have another year to dedicate to pre-req's. The funny part is that their admissions department kept calling me asking me to "finish" (pay them) my initial application. I hope I manage to get off their mailing list.</div>
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I have a friend, who I used to study with in A & P, that went to a little community college about 40 miles away to get her RN. I gave them a call. It looked promising, so I got my transcripts, validation of licenses, CPR verification, ACT scores, and NLN scores and drove to the main campus to drop them off. It was pure Providence that the director of the nursing department happened to be there, in July, at a campus she doesn't teach at. I submitted my paperwork, and she informed me it was all there except for the pre-admission conference that they require, the dates haven't been set yet.</div>
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Here's the list of differences from what I've experienced in the 'bigger' community colleges:</div>
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1. I don't have to retake any of my classes. This in and of itself, is a MAJOR big deal.</div>
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2. I don't have to take any additional classes for pre-req's other than Medical Microbiology, which I had to have for all of them. So, no chemistry, nutrition, or LPN to RN transition course.</div>
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3. I don't have to perform check offs. In both programs, I was going to have to show them a cath, med administration, ng tube, ekg, sterile wound dressing, ostomy care. She said I had been working as a nurse for 2 years, I might know what I'm doing. </div>
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I asked how I would know if I got in. The 'selective admissions' that I've always dealt with has a bunch of hoops you have to jump through just to be considered. She said, "Let me put it to you this way: first semester, which you would be exempt from, has 20 spots. I have 16 students signed up right now. Statistically, some of them will not pass. Unless I have a ton of readmits, I would be able to start you in second semester in January 2016.".</div>
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So, we shall see if it works out. My employer said they would work with me. I will most likely have to work Friday, Saturday, Sunday. This is going to make for a very LONG year, but I'm ready to go,</div>
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Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0Lexington, KY, USA38.0405837 -84.5037164000000337.640337699999996 -85.149163400000035 38.4408297 -83.858269400000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-53265986139991685492015-06-25T11:21:00.001-07:002015-06-25T11:23:05.693-07:00Time to get on with it<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbo9GmyzUn1IMHKRkV4hH_7gLgfSnEfJt0nJG3S80KFIFm0EotP6MlWAu4J2kcblsTXjb0LTkD7yqNodrJDD8qw85Enkwk9LQaZX-dFd_YlcYs3E1CgXoeBQQfaX7iIv3lqk652icK9N5/s1600/impossible+until+it%2527s+done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbo9GmyzUn1IMHKRkV4hH_7gLgfSnEfJt0nJG3S80KFIFm0EotP6MlWAu4J2kcblsTXjb0LTkD7yqNodrJDD8qw85Enkwk9LQaZX-dFd_YlcYs3E1CgXoeBQQfaX7iIv3lqk652icK9N5/s400/impossible+until+it%2527s+done.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I work for a hospital that is affiliated with a university. They are offering to pay for 18 hours a year to finish my RN. I think I have finally reached that point where I'd like to do more with nursing. It's not that I'm bored. In psych nursing, there is no such thing as being bored...everyday is a new adventure. It's just that I had always planned on bridging over. Truth be told, I was pretty burned out on school. The idea of doing it again kind of nauseated me. <br />
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So, I'm taking medical microbiology this fall. If one of the community colleges accept me, that's the only prerequisite I will need. If I go to the state university (I'm applying to both) then I will need chemistry. Have they met me? I'm not much of scienc-y kind of girl. But, if I have to, I have to. Also, the community college requires the NLN, which I have taken before and gotten a composite score of 115. I have to get a verbal Score in the 65 percentile. Comprehensive Score has to be 111. If I go to the university, since I have been out of school longer than three years, I must take the Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (ACE) I and receive Decision Score of 70 or better.
Nothing but hoops to jump through....<br />
I have begun the tedious process of getting all my transcripts together. A college I attended in the 80's is closing their doors, so I had to hustle to get my transcripts before they merged with another college.<br />
That's probably more than you wanted to know, but I'm trying to keep it all straight in my head. If I don't get in either place, it'll be okay. I'm happy to be an LPN. And they can't take that away from meJuryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-86600798859504225902014-08-15T08:57:00.002-07:002014-08-15T08:57:41.794-07:00Dealing with Burn Out<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyyubuK072lHmajwhueUcgQVRavgPcBI3QwRfN7AjYx4Fsq3dSKYKqcC53ZK8cigxiE5hoibUICVZI1g7mLJ35fEJiv2EOKlWRAx5FkHst03UndRgwvWvmgJQXNpXMXGNyHlaGkCwtEAB/s1600/nurse-cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyyubuK072lHmajwhueUcgQVRavgPcBI3QwRfN7AjYx4Fsq3dSKYKqcC53ZK8cigxiE5hoibUICVZI1g7mLJ35fEJiv2EOKlWRAx5FkHst03UndRgwvWvmgJQXNpXMXGNyHlaGkCwtEAB/s1600/nurse-cartoon.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a>I have been the nurse in this cartoon. So tired, I didn't want to talk to anyone, see anyone, or do anything. The unit I was on was very....incohesive. I was there to work and definitely learn. But apparently, I was an anomaly. I didn't know about cliques, or drama.<br />
Passing meds, taking off orders, clarifying orders with pharmacy, patient care, getting the med room ready for next shift, serving meals, changing patients....gee, what was I thinking? I made work about work, and only had a few people that knew about my life outside of work. I still do that. I feel like I can do my life after work. But I've made the observation that many nurses make work their whole life. One could easily see how that can happen. You spend 36 to 60 hours a week with a group of people, you can make them your family. But, to quote Damon Wayans in the movie, "Major Payne", " I didn't say families don't break up, ". Professional distance isn't a bad thing. And making friends at work isn't a bad thing, either. Just don't make your whole life about work. Have friends that don't help you find a vein on a patient, but just play cards or go to the movies with you. Part of burn out is the hopelessness a nurse feels when she sees no end in sight. That nothing is ever going to let up, or things will always be this way. You have to make yourself engage at home. Small steps at first......(maybe go for a cup of coffee, head for the library, find a crossword puzzle to do, wash dishes by hand) and then bigger ones, (like take a fun class, go on vacation, an exercise program) will help with the burn out.<br />
Changing units isn't a bad thought, either. Sometimes people don't gel. They are thrown together to do a job and varying philosophies on work ethics can make for bad feelings. For me, changing units was a great thing. I got a chance to "visit" when I had to float to other units on overflow days. See if that's an option. Sometimes just doing the same kind of nursing for years can burn someone out. Maybe if you can change floors, ( or even jobs) you can restore your faith in the career that you've spent so much time, energy, and money getting excellent in.Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-84103986318872785962014-07-19T12:15:00.004-07:002014-07-19T12:15:54.194-07:00The best laid plans of mice and men<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, I am at a fork in the road about pursuing my RN while working. I had planned on doing an online program with a local college to bridge to RN. The school decided to not accept anymore students and is doing away with the program entirely. Sigh.....<br />
I don't want to stop working and give up our family's insurance to go back to school full time. Maybe there is something wrong with me, but at 51, I know my longevity in this field is going to be approximately 15 years, if that long.<br />
I don't have that, "I'm a failure because I don't have an RN beside my name." syndrome. But I do, at times, get that, "I'm an RN, you're an LPN" differential attitude. Sounds crazy, but I really don't mind the taking orders aspect of the job. Let it be somebody else's call, and therefore, their own responsibility. I have had plenty of being in charge of everything in my life and I'm here to set the record straight: It's completely overrated.<br />
My youngest turns 11 next month; my middle son just turned 19, and my oldest is 29: if the two younger ones want to go to college, then I can afford to send them and pay off my student loans. I know, it sounds so practical, but essentially that's my job....a practical nurse.Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-83603454105061993872014-06-03T09:52:00.000-07:002014-06-03T09:56:05.427-07:008's VS 12'sIt really annoys me.... I've been at this job 1 year, and I haven't figured out what to do with myself on my days off. Yeah, there's always cleaning, laundry, dishes, dusting, grocery shopping...etc. But, what's the fun in that? ;)<br />
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Up until 3 weeks ago, I was "working 8's" which is almost unheard of in the nursing world anymore. The only time I had two days off in a row was when it was my off weekend from work. That really reeked, by the way. So, I had the opportunity to change floors and change hours and absolutely took it! I work more with Geriatrics, which I have had my training in, and now work 12 hour shifts. The pro's definitely outweigh the con's but I'll give you the short list:<br />
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<u>Pro's</u></h2>
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1. You get three days off a week. Sometimes even a 3 day weekend.<br />
2. Therefore, you can plan to travel more because you'll actually not have to take time off to do it.<br />
3. You don't get asked to stay over.<br />
4. To me, it's easier to go through a 12 hour shift with a patient to see how they progress.<br />
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<u>Con's</u></h2>
1. Physically, it can be exhausting when your body is used to getting a break after 8 hours and now must carry on an additional 4 more.<br />
2. It's been hard to figure out when to take a lunch break. Used to be at 11:00 am, but now it's closer to 1:30-2:00 pm. I'm actually having to eat breakfast now to make it until then.<br />
3. While you work only 3 days a week, every other week, those 12's are 3 in a row.<br />
4. You lose 4 hours a week because it's technically only 36 hours. You can pick up on your off days, but right now, I'm thinking....uh, no.<br />
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My first couple of weeks I spent getting used to the physical change of 12's. This past week, it's my family who has had to manage without Mom being around. Hunnybunny does a great job of being the cook and chief bottle washer while I'm gone. Now that I'm getting more used to it, I'd like to get back to quilting on a regular basis. I have so much fabric, patterns, and just can't get organized.<br />
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Oh, and by the way, I'm signed up for medical microbiology which is the last prerequisite for nursing school. Yeah, I'm a glutton for punishment. Getting the RN will open a whole world of opportunity for me. This class is online, which blows me away. I have to get a microscope for the lab part. One of my nursing pals did A & P this way and totally endorses it. We will see.<br />
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Stay tuned.<br />
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<br />Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-77386112932897145902013-08-13T15:52:00.001-07:002013-08-13T15:52:55.097-07:00An Adar/Dickies nurse's scrub reviewWay back in June, I received a <a href="http://www.uniformedscrubs.com/">nurse scrub</a> top from spring/summer collection to review and tell you all what I think of the product. Unfortunately, life got in the way. I had started a new job and moved on top of everything else. They mailed me this style top:<span id="goog_1309229928"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2W-KC9oFr2C5r9VPR4_JpRiXSt916reXjBjMblAooAJwMmbxMTREacbHpWf99OkIiquFmFuw6U40b1vi0865V9ZcSc79sGNNxPiRmH5r-dNavfIUN_C7TzOQpSR2fZcTVjr3hMumwRMGM/s1600/DI-84700LPBL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2W-KC9oFr2C5r9VPR4_JpRiXSt916reXjBjMblAooAJwMmbxMTREacbHpWf99OkIiquFmFuw6U40b1vi0865V9ZcSc79sGNNxPiRmH5r-dNavfIUN_C7TzOQpSR2fZcTVjr3hMumwRMGM/s320/DI-84700LPBL.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1309229927"></span> You have to picture it light blue or they call it "island blue" . Of the choices I was given, that was as close as I can get it to my royal blue (University of KY blue) uniform.<br />
I found the top very, very soft. It washes up well. I wish I could wear it to work, but unfortunately, it is the color of our nursing aide staff's uniform.<br />
I would recommend this line to anyone looking for soft comfort and easy wear. <a href="http://www.uniformedscrubs.com/Dickies-Scrubs_c_17.html">Dickies scrub tops</a> can be found by clicking on the highlighted link or by clicking on their social media links:<br />
<a href="http://pinterest.com/uniformedscrubs/">Pintrest</a><br />
<a href="http://uniformedscrubs.wordpress.com/">their blog</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/uniformedscrubs">like them on facebook</a><br />
follow them on Twitter: @UniformedScrubs<br />
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They allowed me to keep the shirt in exchange for the review.<br />
<br />Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-13833311164596039582013-04-03T11:01:00.000-07:002013-04-04T07:58:20.223-07:00The best motivation to help you study for NCLEX is to set the date. How true it is! Nothing puts the fear of GOD into you like knowing you could possibly waste $200 if you are not prepared enough.<br />
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Our school required we buy this online tutoring program. It is supposed to run you through the 7 areas: fundamentals, pharmacology, pediatrics, mental health, medical-surgical, maternity, and nursing management. This company places you with a tutor, and you do an initial assessment. You go through the books and after each one, you take a test. If you don't score 60% or better, you must do homework to help you improve your score. Then you take it again. It gives you a read out of areas you missed and what you need to work on. I got through fundamentals just fine but pharmacology....I fell short. Again and again, so close but not 60%. The tutor wouldn't let me advance. Really? I paid you $400 to teach me, but you can't advance me until I reach the exact benchmark? I just gave up trying to use them. Besides the aforementioned scenario, their questions were not formatted to helping me with NCLEX. When I started nursing school in the fall of '11, we were required to buy Saunders Comprehensive Review for NCLEX-PN. I had listened to my dean at my school when she said, "if you really want to pass NCLEX-PN, then after lecture every day, use the Saunders book and reinforce it." So, I went through the entire book, and accompanying disc with chapter questions on it. However, I still did not feel adequately prepared. I began to search online for alternatives. Kaplan was good, I had heard, but very expensive. I had less than 4 weeks before I tested and their program was more involved than I had time or money for. NCSBN.org is the organization which I took my jurisprudence test for state licensure and I was told they were the people who came up with the NCLEX questions. So I signed up for the 3 week PN review.<br />
It did the same as the other companies, but was affordable ($50) and I went through the test questions as many times as I needed to, which really helped. I would highly recommend them if you need lots of repetition to grasp a concept.<br />
I planned on taking NCLEX-PN Saturday, March 23, 2013. Every spare minute I had, I was going through questions. I added up over 4,000 questions and rationales that I had done. Finally, the day came. I showed up early and they decided to go ahead and take me early! Holy cow! My nerves took over and I headed for the bathroom! So, I still started at the time I was supposed to. ;)<br />
There were many checks of identity, and finally I was sitting down. "Don't stress: you studied, God is with you...." I kept saying in my head over and over again. Then came the first question. I looked at the screen and thought, " I am so in trouble! I wonder how long it will take me to save up to take this again?" I literally prayed through each question. When I got to question 84, I got nervous again. You see, you can fabulously fail with 85 questions or spectacularly pass with the same amount of questions. The minimum questions for NCLEX-PN is 85. The computer will keep asking questions until you get at least 50% correct. 15 of the questions are "experimental" and if you miss those, it's no big deal. But you don't get credit if they are right, either. You have up to 205 questions unless the computer deems that you are not going to pass based on the amount of high level questions you got right.<br />
After question 85, the screen went blue."Oh, no..." My breathing went shallow. I raised my hand and the attendant escorted me to the office. I called Hunnybunny who was very surprised to hear from me. "It's over?" Yes, it's over, I told him. I felt the way I was supposed to after NCLEX: exactly like I failed. No tears or boo-hooing for me, though. It was what it was. I had spent over 300 hours studying. If I wasn't ready by then, I didn't think anything would help.<br />
I had heard about the Pearson Vue trick a year or so ago. After the results are transmitted, you can try to register again for the exam. If it takes your credit card, it means you failed. If you get this pop-up, ( see below) it means you have passed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRYTtSHvIxDgHy4UmVs870SpkjhGA3uYs-z-x4YZcPU6JPKbZAsTyAMeWH24gqm2RcxZrBwkOtgDMRxqS-3gTfIQSYA4za0tTP78YvGjaaGifCAjF1-9es8duXBv-kxnEvzeJ5JTZd07A/s1600/tumblr_lpfo36bL7g1qdyw4ho1_500.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRYTtSHvIxDgHy4UmVs870SpkjhGA3uYs-z-x4YZcPU6JPKbZAsTyAMeWH24gqm2RcxZrBwkOtgDMRxqS-3gTfIQSYA4za0tTP78YvGjaaGifCAjF1-9es8duXBv-kxnEvzeJ5JTZd07A/s400/tumblr_lpfo36bL7g1qdyw4ho1_500.png" width="400" /> </a></div>
That is exactly what happened to me! I found out that I passed NCLEX-PN by using this PVT (Pearson Vue trick). On Monday, March 25, it posted to my Board of Nursing website, with my name plus LPN! Thank you, God!
Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-49987287706418579302013-02-11T17:31:00.000-08:002013-02-11T17:31:21.110-08:00On to the NCLEX<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU8SkXOI-SzNFfVzfG-PBFcpmM42SOSGycHZYNN3AxigabGLtkvkuwdh7pNKD2uJ1nYALd651bbWNU3Xy95uw30fgqazo7L7bdXbyxP879hYUUQKcYlQPId5AlYG37Ke3mzTFvliBD1OH6/s1600/end-of-semester-student-studying-finals-week-grading-essays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU8SkXOI-SzNFfVzfG-PBFcpmM42SOSGycHZYNN3AxigabGLtkvkuwdh7pNKD2uJ1nYALd651bbWNU3Xy95uw30fgqazo7L7bdXbyxP879hYUUQKcYlQPId5AlYG37Ke3mzTFvliBD1OH6/s400/end-of-semester-student-studying-finals-week-grading-essays.jpg" width="400" /></a>So, it's down to this. This one little test. Well, not really "little". It can be as "few" as 85 questions, or as many as 205 on the NCLEX-PN. Am I terrified? Is the pope stepping down? Terrified doesn't quite cover it.<br />
I've been working at a private duty nursing place since May of last year, and now that I'm not in school, I've been working full-time. When my patient is taking a nap, I catch a few pages. Also studying at night when I get home. Our school had us purchase a review package from a "nameless" company. It was very expensive, and not very worth it as far as I can tell. I'm getting more out of my <a href="http://www.valorebooks.com/textbooks/saunders-comprehensive-review-for-the-nclex-pn-examination-4th-edition/9781416047308?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=Froogle&utm_source=Froogle">Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX PN Examination-4th-edition</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mosbys-Review-Cards-NCLEX-RN%C2%AE-Examination/dp/0323040136">Mosby's NCLEX- RN Review Cards</a>, and some old ATI books a friend who passed NCLEX gave me. It's weird, now that I'm out of school, I don't feel so stupid when I do these assessments and practice tests.<br />
I've read every "plan" out there, but I'm hoping I picked the right combination of resources. You might be wondering when I'm taking it. Well, keep wondering. That's setting myself up for pressure I don't need. How about I just let you know WHEN I PASS?Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-26084322075831370482012-12-03T15:25:00.000-08:002012-12-03T15:37:48.332-08:00In case you wondered......<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> I MADE IT! LPN grad November 30, 2012</span></h2>
Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-72885664265529235082012-10-01T17:32:00.001-07:002012-10-01T17:32:31.367-07:00Lesson in CompassionI worked this summer with a terminally-ill patient who was deteriorating quickly. It was hard to watch, but that experience taught me a lot. First, you are never going to be able to pick your patients unless you're a psych doctor. Secondly, there's always a reason why you have the patient you have. My lesson was compassion. I know you must think that a nursing student should come into any given program with it, but it truly doesn't kick in until you see someone faced with death. What in the world could you possibly say to someone with numbered days? Nothing. Just be there. So that's what I did. I was everything and anything the patient needed. And their family, as well. Really, you don't have one patient, it's usually two- the actual patient, and the one forced to watch helplessly as the end draws near. The members of said family were hurting, internally, and no pill or procedure was going to cure that. You let them talk, show you pictures of their life together. You pick their brains and show interest in that life. You shampoo carpets if they've mentioned how bad it needs done, EVERYDAY, because nobody in the family will do it. Instead of being fixated on what couldn't be fixed, by jumbo, that carpet could be fixed. So, you do it. It's so gratifying to them that something was accomplished. And somebody heard them.<br />
I know, doesn't sound like nursing, does it? Well, it was. Maybe the best kind there is. You can fix someone with medical treatment, but the treatment of the heart is an entirely different prescription. And I found it's just as important as any intervention you could do as a nurse.<br />
Not long after school started, I asked about the status of this patient only to be told they had died the week before. I couldn't believe that nobody picked up the phone. To say that I felt horrible doesn't even cover it.<br />
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God has always showed me compassion . This time, he let me experience it. And He expects nothing less from me. This picture sums it up: I hope I can just be a beggar who can show another beggar where to find some bread.....and always show compassion. <img src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRWk5EdvxIQngl8tYwhB22xwDa4M3Ko86_M8OxprKLDOMgCouzd" />Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-11669539785958441152012-06-24T19:44:00.000-07:002012-06-24T16:45:59.996-07:00Experience is the best teacher<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvysEzUlxx7_vPoUHgunNCsm84-4pHWZswI7hqOYSdMAMgpIFycfLp8t3Dv42gdxvbNha67sqXxJJ1-5iZoKMQ7bnYWFKs5-fa86agWeNOTxJc3YpfiTo5JF7-tSbFs8-nI1F9D8V_gQgd/s1600/comic+book+nurse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvysEzUlxx7_vPoUHgunNCsm84-4pHWZswI7hqOYSdMAMgpIFycfLp8t3Dv42gdxvbNha67sqXxJJ1-5iZoKMQ7bnYWFKs5-fa86agWeNOTxJc3YpfiTo5JF7-tSbFs8-nI1F9D8V_gQgd/s400/comic+book+nurse.jpg" width="268" /></a>Or so they say, whomever they is....I took my clinical adviser 's advice and got a job as a CNA this summer. It was probably the best thing I ever did for my education. I keep my assessment skills up, and am able to make a buck or two. Not saying where as I don't wish to get into any trouble, but it's a good fit. I'm working 40 hours a week until school starts back up in 7 weeks. Then, I hope they can still use me part-time.<br />
My instructor mentioned to me that working with patients is probably what I need to build my confidence, and she was correct, (as much as I hate to admit it). Initially, I started pretty green but have been steadily gaining confidence by using my assessment skills, and getting a feel for what patients go through to be taken care of by nurses.<br />
I'm also looking at this opportunity to see through the eyes of a CNA . It's been tiring but great. And it keeps the goal in front of me ....that nursing is what I want to do.<br />
<br />Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-7420019083839541602012-05-12T09:12:00.000-07:002012-05-12T09:12:24.998-07:00The Top Ten Things I Learned Second Semester of Nursing SchoolIt's been awhile. I was reminded by a dear friend that I've not updated lately and looking at my calendar, I see why I haven't.<br />
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So, here we go with the Top Ten Things I Learned Second Semester of Nursing School....<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 10</b></span>. Don't worry about not having a life in nursing school, none of us do.
Sounds profound, but it's just the nature of the beast. If you are a very social person who parties, goes shopping, attends church, has outings with your family, goes to your child's school functions....I'm talking to you. You can kiss all of that goodbye in second semester. Nursing school is kind of like boiling a toad. You don't just throw him into the boiling water, do you? No, you put him in the pot with cold water and in increments, turn up the heat. The poor toad adjusts to the temperature each time until finally he's boiled to death. That's what happens in nursing school. They give you those first introductory classes, like Intro to Nursing, Pharm I, Medical Terminology, etc, just to get your feet wet, so to speak. You develop partial confidence, thinking, "Yeah, I think I can do this, " just to bait and switch you second semester with Intro to Med-Surg, OB, Pharm II, and Mental Health. It's totally different second semester. Go in with your eyes WIDE OPEN.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 9.</b></span> Organization is the key. Yeah, I know. I've read it on other blogs before and just sort of blew it off. But, take heed. You are going to get hit with careplans, quizzes, virtual clinic assignments, papers, clinical dates (which you CANNOT MISS EVER). If you have problems managing your time, or saying no to other activities that require your attention, figure it out NOW. They don't care what your problem is, you have to have that assignment in; you have to make that clinical; and you have to be prepared for that test. And they are not being hard on you just to be mean, they are preparing you for the nursing field. The hospital is not going to care what's going on in your personal life, you have to show up. They will simply fire you and hire someone else.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 8. </b></span>Never be unprepared for any class or clinical. I know it sound the same as<br />
number 9, but what I refer to is the preparation. Prior to any class, you are going to have tons of outlines/powerpoints/assignments to download and print. You best have a good if not GREAT printer, at least a case of paper, and extra cartridges at all times. You also have to have it in a note book. Get one for each class. The bigger, the better. It will come in handy at finals when you are responsible the CUMULATIVE material. Your time is better spent NOT looking for all the outlines like I did. Get all this together the night BEFORE CLASS. You will thank me for this advice. It lowers your blood pressure on test/quiz day and you walk in ready to do battle, not be frustrated because you couldn't get it together.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 7: </b></span>Be ready for clinicals: uniforms wrinkle-free and clean. Shoes should be the comfortable. Don't skimp out on this. Your feet will pay for it. Stethoscope handy and on your person at all times. Don't ever set it down. Someone will walk off with it. A pocket notebook is nice to write notes. And a non-leaking pen, black ink. I ruined a pair of scrubs by not noticing my pen was leaking. ALWAYS have your drug book handy. You will be passing meds most likely. I got stupid and handed mine to a classmate who forgot hers. Dumb, dumb, dumb. She did not hand it back in a timely fashion and it was my turn to pass 20 meds. Needless to say, I had points taken off for not looking up all my meds and being prepared. Don't be me. Don't loan it out.<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Number 6.</span></b> Buy all the scantrons you need for each test and quiz and then buy 10 more. Your classmates have a tendency to NOT be as prepared as you are, and on test/quiz day, they are in a . Be their hero...give them a scantron. One day, I guarantee, you will need one, and they will remember.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 5</b></span>. Do not let the ineptness of an instructor prevent you from learning. I have said it over and over again: there are teachers galore on the internet who will bestow their knowledge for free. If your teacher doesn't make sense, teach yourself. This semester, I was forced to rewrite a certain instructors powerpoints because she didn't layout the material in a manner that was conducive to my learning style. My learning style is not her problem. It's mine. The biggest take away I ever got was doing a search for powerpoints from other instructors teaching the same material. Here's the big secret: book publishers supply teachers with the powerpoints taken directly from the book. The teacher can add or subtract what she/he thinks is necessary. So, while your instructor may not explain something in depth that you are struggling with, another instructor whose powerpoints online may. Get your google on and search!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 4.</b></span> You gotta sleep sometime. Try your best to keep the same schedule or your body will rebel, and embarrass the heck out of you. Case in point: I had a bad habit of staying up until 1 AM, even on nights when I was going to clinicals at 6:15 AM. So not a good plan. My eyes got very tired, and I developed a weird eye strain condition. Every time I would squint, tears poured down my face. This was very embarrassing during a sterile procedure when I was gloved and gowned and could not even see for the tears. It was my body telling me: "You can't abuse me." And I got the message.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 3.</b></span> Thou SHALT NOT hack off thy clinical instructor. This is where you have to leave the ego at the door. She/he can make you, or make you wish you had never been born. Don't embarrass, don't gossip about, and don't make her annoyed. Yes, I am asking you to dance. You have to go along to get along on this one. After you finish clinicals, you are going to need a decent job reference. They would be more willing to give it if you have a good working relationship. There are going to be bosses, charge nurses, hospital administrators that you can't stand and are going to have to be working with side by side. Consider this practice.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 2. </b></span>Make your family/friends/significant other understand what this journey means to you. I had to sit my family down and explain that I had to study X amount of time for X amount of material. Dishes, laundry, general cleaning, can all be done on weekends. Remember: there's always paper plates, cups, spoons, etc. You have to work hard with kids to get them to see that Mommy isn't going to be doing this bit forever. And when you get time off, enjoy them. I am so lucky because my 8 year old is my greatest advocate. I've heard him say to his dad, "No, Mommy can't go to the movies...she has a 2 tests this week. Didn't you read her calendar?" Too cute. :)<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Number 1.</b></span> Be there for each other. Our class went from 60 to now 31. By the time we graduate, it's going down further. Help each other. Send your notes, offer to show someone a skill that you have mastered. It's going to reap benefits because one day, you both will be in the work place. And who better to have there than a comrade in arms? Someone who went through the war with you....because that's pretty close to how it feels. Help them cross the finish line with you.Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-10736455417145373092012-02-28T09:20:00.000-08:002012-02-28T09:20:08.510-08:00Adventures in Nursing School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT79dGx0AvgqwKa1yIAcfP3RpkZvK5v7czxxZzqPhpW90XwqF4Q-fb_F-QwlfNAsHay6uC4qEyaNFcRjxf4lUh9jRZif0eovQ9DLS4MyPRLzorBcdtkWsTfQEnw1sUW9vfjpSQzk4c7PM6/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT79dGx0AvgqwKa1yIAcfP3RpkZvK5v7czxxZzqPhpW90XwqF4Q-fb_F-QwlfNAsHay6uC4qEyaNFcRjxf4lUh9jRZif0eovQ9DLS4MyPRLzorBcdtkWsTfQEnw1sUW9vfjpSQzk4c7PM6/s400/012.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QXZu5vcB5fkLNXscEPDh-NKfrhbc5hGQ5kAn_CNV19O4AbNqftL0iXD_Uv8HSeZWlK_EY6IoMuiLIDNdrbP1DYIR_vwHjVNMdddnn4HzlMrrwYf6qXmOg5UlK4b4NW0HE-M4gev8s1ls/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QXZu5vcB5fkLNXscEPDh-NKfrhbc5hGQ5kAn_CNV19O4AbNqftL0iXD_Uv8HSeZWlK_EY6IoMuiLIDNdrbP1DYIR_vwHjVNMdddnn4HzlMrrwYf6qXmOg5UlK4b4NW0HE-M4gev8s1ls/s320/010.JPG" width="320" /></a>I know, I know, you think I don't love you, but I do.....just been busy trying to pass stuff, get through clinicals, ect. To say it's been crazy has been putting it mildly. My first week of school we were required to do two days of skills to be checked off on. I made it through the foley cath check off just fine. The trach care and suctioning...not so much. I ended up redoing that one. I also missed one on my med calculation test that we had to do for Pharmacology, so I repeated that one, too. But it's all good. That stress is over. Last Friday, I completed my IV check off skills, and that was successful. We had to do 5 skills: initiate the IV, insert a bolus medication, add a piggy back IV, convert it to a saline lock, and then...discontinue the IV. All within 30 minutes. It wouldn't have been so bad, but they always teach you the old fashioned way to do it, manually getting a drip rate. That wasn't near as much fun, but I got through it. Check out my make shift IV pole! Hey, you have to use what you have or what you can get to learn on. It's really a pole to put in your yard and hang flowers or a birdfeeder on. That's what I told Hunnybunny we could use it for, anyway, after I purchased it from Hobby Lobby. And maybe you can see the "fake arm" I made. I got tired of waiting to use the manikins at school as there are so many of us, and not as many of them. So, I took a candle, width of my wrist; some modeling clay-rolling it out super thin to make the veins to lie on top of it. And then I put some spongy paper-like material on top for the "skin" Can you see the "veins" under the "skin"? Well, it worked for me so I guess that's all that counts. At least it smelled good from the candle.<br />
As far as the other classes go, I'm doing fine. Intro to Med-Surg may kill me, but I'm still there. It's a 6 hour class and a 12-hour clinical. The clinical is going .....okay. Definitely need to bare in mind that you have to be more flexible than you ever thought you would be. I managed to get points taken off the first day! I had this patient with 20 meds to give and completely blew it. Not to mention that our instructor takes off points for diary-type nursing notes that we had to write. I know she wants us to be clear and concise, and I guarantee you, I will be by the time our last clinical is over.<br />
What I've noticed most is that I don't have the "what if I don't make it" attitude that I had last semester. Don't misunderstand, I work HARD! I feel like I have to study twice as much as my under 25-year-old classmates. But I guess I've gotten to the point where I know I'm trying my best, and that's all anyone can ask. Even of myself.Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-26936283194057730912011-12-11T14:51:00.000-08:002011-12-11T14:51:49.584-08:00Finally have a minute or two to update you....I survived my first semester of nursing school. While that may seem trite, I think about those students with much younger brains who didn't make it to second semester. And I'm sad for them. One of my group didn't make it and when she told me she was dropping, I felt like someone died. I wasn't that far behind them as my pharmacology didn't come up as I planned. I made it by .5 for the C. C's are different in nursing school. Mine start at 83 and go to 78. Anything below that range is a D. My other classes I did fine: How to be a nurse 101- B; and Intro to Nursing- A. Toward the last of it, I was getting ready for the head-to-toe assessment, going through clinicals, and getting ready for finals.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhPEXMNGnvFYps6ZeQ2dWuvybTZiVj8REctm3JGu4sLeinSn8Uq6a5EufmMhfc6NqQBK7llF43MyFdT9MNtSnoLIUzr_NBTXU4WkuXnmR7fD5yryb6o_Nk8n1cUTdEqBKnU_TK40zSLqG/s1600/what_happens_in_clinicals_stays_in_clinicals_bumper_sticker-p128960614214757160trl0_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhPEXMNGnvFYps6ZeQ2dWuvybTZiVj8REctm3JGu4sLeinSn8Uq6a5EufmMhfc6NqQBK7llF43MyFdT9MNtSnoLIUzr_NBTXU4WkuXnmR7fD5yryb6o_Nk8n1cUTdEqBKnU_TK40zSLqG/s200/what_happens_in_clinicals_stays_in_clinicals_bumper_sticker-p128960614214757160trl0_400.jpg" width="200" /></a>I learned a lot during clinicals. Clinicals are great because you have someone to hold your hand just starting out. I was able to connect to most patients, but was even asked to leave another patient's room. Apparently, she thought I talked too much. I remember asking her one question....oh, well. I took it kind of hard at first, but then realized she was in a lot of pain. Many people came and went in her room. She may not have been able to discern that it wasn't me talking. Anyway, lesson learned. Comatose patient: Don't ask anything. Just wait until they are up and oriented. Other than that one experience, it was really good. I was able to give one patient a bath and she had all the good humor that I hope to have approaching her age. Another patient was staring death down, and she had this great attitude. Again, I hope I'm like that. <br />
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Other things I learned included what type of learner I am. Apparently, I'm a visual/active learner. Having tried the auditory route, and massive note taking route, I think I'm better going through the chapters myself, and creating my own visual cues. I studied with several classmates, and shared my notes with them. I got the reputation of being really smart, even though none of that was true. I can make these fantastic notes which apparently helped others make A's but for myself, it just didn't happen. Reeks, doesn't it? A re-evaluation of my study methods are definitely in order. <br />
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Another thing I have come up against is feeling responsible for helping others study. I know, I know, how crazy is that, right Even the night before finals, I had someone wanting to study with me. She had not studied as she should (neither had I) and was expecting a miracle. The miracle never came, even until 2:00 AM when I had to shut my eyes for a little while. I got up at 5 AM to go over the stuff I didn't have time to go over while she was there. I passed by the skin of my teeth, .5. That's a little too close. If I had failed that course, I would've had to repeat it next semester. I've got to find the balance of being willing to help when I can, but not feeling it's my responsibility to make sure they pass. It is, however, my job to make sure I pass. Any study methods you can pass along would be great! I have a month before the roller coaster starts up again, and with four classes, 12 hour clinicals, I need to figure this out.....SOON!Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-62195051548333893032011-10-26T17:55:00.000-07:002011-10-26T17:55:12.008-07:00So....my last post was a little tense....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluubdxmMDpRH6psgxC09Vqr_IAZ9pzWbV5V0Q2m4GblBZUFdCfJnyCvb5V0hIh1EzlMSA_j8DD9LAbCQXheC1Y_jaubfDYTEbYTb-POmUonJACOFGXvecnOs86ETmVeEMPyqfW9H5J_9T/s1600/Shot-In-the-Arm-vintage1-238x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluubdxmMDpRH6psgxC09Vqr_IAZ9pzWbV5V0Q2m4GblBZUFdCfJnyCvb5V0hIh1EzlMSA_j8DD9LAbCQXheC1Y_jaubfDYTEbYTb-POmUonJACOFGXvecnOs86ETmVeEMPyqfW9H5J_9T/s400/Shot-In-the-Arm-vintage1-238x300.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>so, I apologize. And I deleted it. Stress was getting to me. Still is. A friend told me that she benefited the most from putting lots of time into notes. And I have to admit, she's right. Only I can dig through that text and totally understand what notes I've written. So, if I sounded judgmental, I think I was just feeling unappreciated by those I had shared notes with. They don't want to pitch in, it's really about them.<br />
I had another test today and patiently waiting for her to post the grades.I'm feeling pretty good about it.<br />
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Next week, I have vital signs check off and injection check off...both on the same day! As far as being nervous, sure, I'm nervous, but not terrified. I probably should be. But I'm trying not to psych myself out.<br />
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I have been really enjoying most of my classes, especially Pharmacology. The teacher is passionate about teaching us the right way, and I appreciate her for that. <br />
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We received our new schedule for next semester. Here it is as follows:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9K3oQCGoqZIgM6pCwdQtM25IXvv2VZS7Sggtw0cjiaIjlmAiDbvtAdfh2gtqJFNyJfZgynA_XVDHVkaJwwr6nZwYsnpP2OVFPfYNWEzBLcmzY5spvEnNwxl5_IljoJmPYyOywJh5yAPT/s1600/blood_pressure_heart_md_clr.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9K3oQCGoqZIgM6pCwdQtM25IXvv2VZS7Sggtw0cjiaIjlmAiDbvtAdfh2gtqJFNyJfZgynA_XVDHVkaJwwr6nZwYsnpP2OVFPfYNWEzBLcmzY5spvEnNwxl5_IljoJmPYyOywJh5yAPT/s320/blood_pressure_heart_md_clr.gif" width="265" /></a><br />
<br />
Mental Health<br />
Health Deviations<br />
Peds<br />
Pharm II<br />
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We hit the ground running with 12-hour clinicals. Thankfully, I got the new Timberland Pros. Aren't they positively "Ooogle-ly"?? But so far, they are very comfortable. I've been breaking them in every chance I get. Clinicals for this semester start very soon, and I'll be getting my assignment for them Monday. Sounds crazy, but this semester has really flown by.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BsSxDxT8G0PhJrIOUdPGeC6XuvFnUwS2uPI0v3eUTa07XLsiLJfKMu8oagSWs_39vAeCTteSjKvaszCskU5q7DnHydJWbc5J-GhIea3Mt4xdHWaWucboSNO5yP0DJMQ57gSSiNb8zzHT/s1600/shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BsSxDxT8G0PhJrIOUdPGeC6XuvFnUwS2uPI0v3eUTa07XLsiLJfKMu8oagSWs_39vAeCTteSjKvaszCskU5q7DnHydJWbc5J-GhIea3Mt4xdHWaWucboSNO5yP0DJMQ57gSSiNb8zzHT/s200/shoes.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7067255407769638780.post-738169651301973752011-09-16T18:22:00.000-07:002011-09-16T18:22:54.019-07:00First week of testing in nursing school<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKw1sYrS6NHkYPo-LOE8gaQOIUeAfBnHJuOa5ngoWyI8Vi5qrdqqKHsIgN23K425B5Q7anwtqARSoFqh1zpzS-_Z0bkpjZQZJ5VkBX8fQdpzCiTC1Z0MZJpihvVmeylNtNpyH1h-q1uP3/s1600/angels+heard+on+high.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKw1sYrS6NHkYPo-LOE8gaQOIUeAfBnHJuOa5ngoWyI8Vi5qrdqqKHsIgN23K425B5Q7anwtqARSoFqh1zpzS-_Z0bkpjZQZJ5VkBX8fQdpzCiTC1Z0MZJpihvVmeylNtNpyH1h-q1uP3/s400/angels+heard+on+high.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Yes, it's been a fun-filled week in nursing school. I had the privilege of taking three exams back to back in one week. That's right, Friends and neighbors, my brain got a workout. Fifty or so hand-written pages of notes from my "how to be a nurse" class. After studying close to 72 hours total for it, all I got for my trouble was a 76. While that would be passing in regular classes, the range for a C is 78- 83 in nursing school. I missed passing it by one question. We covered: asepsis, infection control, nutrition, range of motion, order for putting on and taking off, personal protection equipment, glucometer skills, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and how it applies to nursing...I think that was it. It was pretty intense. My teacher told me I did better than alot of people on this test, but there was no comfort in her words.<br />
Pharmacology was much better, I got a B. And the online Intro to Nursing class I got an A.<br />
I think I realized my problem regarding my studying. I spent all my time dissecting the textbooks and comparing them to the outlines. Basically, I couldn't see the forest for the trees and made it much more complicated than it needed to be. Not playing on my strengths hurt me, too. My thing is visual learning. I've been trying to rewrite notes, and use auditory learning with an Echo Smartpen. What did help me were sites like <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20%20http://www.studyblue.com/">Study Blue</a>, <a href="http://quizlet.com/">Quizlet</a>, and <a href="http://www.flashcardexchange.com/">Flashcard Exchange</a>. I can make my own study guides and the sites will quiz me on the definitions or theories.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFxLzuksMLofY8wrqcjsxdRpTELUU7frtMo2Y7dm7HPbSNeLmeyfrnrSuYYQvjTMjzXEDFRdWgeNrh_7Fd2cgmV6JplmDC4R_UdxcnGQyWdaQz8Bd4YV-6pjR7pVDFuYRuguC-55N8o27/s1600/brain+in+nursing+school.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFxLzuksMLofY8wrqcjsxdRpTELUU7frtMo2Y7dm7HPbSNeLmeyfrnrSuYYQvjTMjzXEDFRdWgeNrh_7Fd2cgmV6JplmDC4R_UdxcnGQyWdaQz8Bd4YV-6pjR7pVDFuYRuguC-55N8o27/s400/brain+in+nursing+school.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> I saw this on a t-shirt that I want to get. It pretty much summed up my week. Day of the exams, I had gone to bed at midnight and got up at 3:30 AM to study until 6:30 AM. I left early and sat in the parking lot to study. Nobody had on any makeup and nobody cared, either, including me.<br />
I get to do it all again in 2 1/2 weeks......YEA! But at least I know now how to approach it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJUN4HXFIJFMBhdaP7voq8zjvaTfo9C1hzUm-NVbIbcI2b_l_ZMExnxt2TKml9Vu82RV5LJR37kd-oJEzfdXxPl06DQ3JYOqAJ9dLoiY9rGEeMcId1G3-DwS8URwOw0OE_4YhpMquNWD-/s1600/bookbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJUN4HXFIJFMBhdaP7voq8zjvaTfo9C1hzUm-NVbIbcI2b_l_ZMExnxt2TKml9Vu82RV5LJR37kd-oJEzfdXxPl06DQ3JYOqAJ9dLoiY9rGEeMcId1G3-DwS8URwOw0OE_4YhpMquNWD-/s1600/bookbag.jpg" /></a></div>And for those of you wondering, yes, the bag with the wheels <br />
is working pretty well. I went with the Samsonite because the company is as old as me.....lol! Anyway, it holds about 7 books, nursing that is, 6 or 7 composition books, and two nookbooks, plus all my extra pockets of stuff. Thanks for asking! I would get another one!<br />
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Juryizstillouthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15359064815254658511noreply@blogger.com4