What things have changed in nursing since 1997???

[live4today]

Okay, I'm headed back into nursing after a five year sabbatical, and would like to hear from my allnurses siblings the changes that have taken place in nursing over the past five years?

Thanks nurses!

Much love,

Renee

[mattsmom81]

Agree with everybody's observations re changes in the past 5 years. A few more to add:

Increase in drug resistant bugs..MRSA, MRSE, VRE, TB

The move to restraint free facilities.

Sentinel event monitoring.

Open vs restricted visiting hours.

More patients and staff with latex allergies/sensitivities.

Even greater emphasis on patient's rights.

Docs dumping their work on nurses...they are not making their big $$$ profits and are seeing more patients to offset this....and they are even more cranky...and demanding...in my area.

Best wishes in your new venture Renee...I know you'll do well!

:kiss

[renerian, BSN, RN]

When I interviewed and contemplated doing what your doing the unit managers all told me only the technology changed. The staffing levels compared to what they were when I worked the floor are better. WE sometimes had 15 people, with no aide or LPN.

renerian

[live4today, RN]

Again...much thanks for your continued contribution to this all important thread for me...and hopefully others who are reading it as well. Carry on........

[HRHNurse Carol]

Welcome back, Renee, you were missed! I wish I could work with you. I really can't add to what others have said as far as what is new. I'm just happy to hear about your return. It's really wonderful!!