[crazybusyRN]

Hi, everyone- I read this site all the time, and I'm hoping all you smart nurses will have some opinions for me.

Had my first class of the semester today in a class on the ethics of vaccination. Sounds like a really interesting course.

Well, now I'm trying to brainstorm term paper ideas so I don't find myself halfway through the semester with no clue what to write about. I would like to incorporate something of nursing since I'm the only nurse in the class.

So, here's my question: what's your vaccine pet peeve? Are you annoyed that you are asked to get a flu shot, or prove that your immunizations are up to date? Do you have issues with giving vaccines to patients? For our international members, are there other issues in your home countries?

Thanks a lot!!!

[EricJRN]

One place to start would be by researching the BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guerin) vaccine for tuberculosis. It isn't really used here in the US, but it's given in many countries where they have more widespread TB. The problems come in when a previously vaccinated person has a positive TB skin test.

Authorities swear that a person who receives the vaccine should not have a positive test for more than a few years, but many react for their entire lives. The question arises whether these patients were really exposed, should be treated, etc.

[HeartsOpenWide]

what's your vaccine pet peeve? People that are not fully educated on vaccinations and simply assume the worst or trust what a friend said (who is also misinformed).
Are you annoyed that you are asked to get a flu shot, or prove that your immunizations are up to date? No, not only is it for my safety it is for the safety of my clients (I am in a holistic BSN program, we do not have patients we have clients...). If I was a patient I would expect my health care providers to be up to date. I do not however believe that flu-shots should be required but it is a good idea to get one.
Do you have issues with giving vaccines to patients? None what so ever. Although no kids like the lady who gives shots...they seem to remember you.

[tridil2000]

i think our babies and kids get too many vaccines too early. i do not permit any that are not required by law for my kids.