Like newbie. We all know what a newbie is. A newly graduated nurse (RN or LPN) with limited, minimal or no work experience. They all experience the feelings of uncertainty and angst that accompanies their newbie-ism. Or they experience those positive feelings of enthusiasm & advocacy and the welcome breath of fresh air into a sometimes stale professional work environment.
I want a new word. The OPPOSITE of newbie. Not an 'OLDIE', not ''SENIOR'. They convey negativism that is all too prejudicial in today's youth-oriented society. Something like 'emeritus' but that is a bit toooo stuffy and implies being retired. I like something along the lines of a 'Master Po' or 'Obi-Wan Kenobie'. I like the 'COB' title, but that has taken on too much of a sarcastic tone. A 'sage' and/or 'savant' is too stuffy also.
These nurses would impart a sense of experienced wisdom while still retaining a sense of humor. Many of the foils & foibles of working in a rapidly changing work world - the good, the bad and the ugly. But also the satisfaction of knowing how to 'make good'.
I do like a shortened 'Obi-Wan'. What do y'all think? Do you think you could use 'Obi-Wan' when talking about the more experienced nurses we know?
Since students and new nurses are pretty much glued to our sides in the beginning one of our nurses came up with Mother Goose and her nurslings. Now our brand new nurses are unfortunately forever labeled nurslings. Kind of cute for the students, but I think it's a little insulting to actual nurses.
Specializes in Family Medicine, Tele/Cardiac, Camp.
Im still waiting for a pre-COB title. Something between Noob and COB.
I'm costantly combining words so my first thought was "Nob" which made me laugh. But, while funny, probably isn't a title any of us would prouldy claim.
Jensmom7, BSN, RN
1,907 Posts
I worked long and hard to be a nurse long enough to be able to wear the title of COB.
I'm sticking with that, thanks. [emoji41]