People that have viewed previous posts of mine have seen that I will be going to the UK in the Fall (under my husband's work permit). I received my NMC pin and will start an ONP. And YES.........it was a ridiculous amount of work to get the pin.
I am wanting a true, honest opinion:twocents: on what kind of reception a US nurse will get when working over there. Will other nurses resent me knowing that the unemployment issue is big w/ UK nurses wanting a job? Will they be happy to have an extra pair of hands? What are ratios in an ICU...are these nurses overworked? I just want to know what to look forward to and if there are any social nuances that I might not understand being an American in the UK nursing system.
Thanks...and don't sugar coat it, I can take it :argue:
I have never worked in the UK but have worked (non-nursing jobs) in Japan, Korea and Spain. Anytime you go overseas, it is best to try to fit in. You can do this by being open to a new culture and new way of doing things. I lived overseas for a total of 9 years and learned so much and met some wonderful people. As Americans overseas we are ambassadors. You may meet people that have never been out of the UK or the EU. Their only impression of Americans is what you give them. You will have an adjustment period and there might be things you never get used to. However, this is a wonderful opportunity, so take advantage of it. Good luck and please update us.
traumaRUs, MSN, APRN
87 Articles; 21,287 Posts
I have never worked in the UK but have worked (non-nursing jobs) in Japan, Korea and Spain. Anytime you go overseas, it is best to try to fit in. You can do this by being open to a new culture and new way of doing things. I lived overseas for a total of 9 years and learned so much and met some wonderful people. As Americans overseas we are ambassadors. You may meet people that have never been out of the UK or the EU. Their only impression of Americans is what you give them. You will have an adjustment period and there might be things you never get used to. However, this is a wonderful opportunity, so take advantage of it. Good luck and please update us.