RISC601

I joined the staff as an RN in a Level III NICU in Atlanta. Initially I was the only male RN in the unit, but since that time one of our male respiratory therapists has graduated from nursing school. At this point, we have one male RN working 7a-7p and one male RN working 7p-7a. It's nice to "stand out" among your peers. As one of only two males nurses in the unit, you stand a better chance of the families calling you by name as opposed to simply being called "the nurse". Go for the NICU and find an academic/teaching institution if possible. It makes for a better learning environment for you to build your skills.

I'm a gay male in nursing school and I haven't made a secret of it. At my age I'm too old to waste time and energy trying to hide it. I don't shove it in anyone's face, however I talk about my family just the same as all the other students. What I'm attempting to ascertain is whether or not I have a professor that is homophobic? Reflecting back over this semester and last, I could see that as a possibility. Being from the South, we can do things a little differently down here and take things to heart too easily. Sometimes it isn't an issue that we as Southerners are disliked, but we may perceive it as such because people from other regions tend to be more "direct". I may simply be reading a lot more into it than I should. Another possibility is that the professor sees the potential for a great nurse and wants to do her best to assure that the potential is realized. Maybe she's being a pain for my own good. Although it would be reassuring that after you were snapped at that the reason was explained or maybe even a *wink* to let you know not to take it personally. Regardless of whether or not it is outwardly visible, chances are it was taken personally. From this point forward I could always be strictly business. Follow a strict policy of "keep your mouth shut" and "speak only when spoken to." Any opinions?