dirtbarbie

I work in Denver and we had our 'meeting' last night. We were told that our hospital has taken huge losses recently and subsequently: management will take a salary freeze, we are asked to try to reduce overtime, try not to waste supplies (or energy), our probonus pay for working an extra shift will go away (not overtime), they are only hiring clinical positions if needed (and likely only PRN, not full time), and external paid education opportunities are on hold. Oh, and we will still have our annual review for our departmental pay raise in April, but they are not promising that we'll get the raise - at least not now. One of our transporters told me that their department has asked them to scout individuals wanting to volunteer (or student interns). Much of the staff is on board if it keeps anyone from losing a job. Rumor has it that other hospitals have cut back on clinical staff. Same reasons as you listed... more uninsured patients. Not a 'you're lucky to have your job' talk, though. That doesn't sound like the right way for management to approach the recession. And many thought healthcare wouldn't be affected... It certainly seems like the time to reign in the expenses, though. We've done it at home, for sure. Best of luck.

Good luck to you. I'm at 14 months smoke free. Here's what worked for me after smoking for about 10 years and trying to quit many times (hypnotherapy, medication, patches and gum... tried them all)... I quit cold turkey after reading this site (and with no withdrawl, & very little cravings). This did it for me. It will be worth your time and health to follow their directions: http://quitsmokingonline.com/ Also, I've used this site as support during the few times I craved: http://quitnet.com/ Again, best wishes. If at first you don't succeed, try and try again!

I heard about MCS after the destruction of the Twin Towers in NYC on 9/11. Check it out at http://www.chemicalsensitivityfoundation.org/... fascinating and scary. Unfortunately, it's an illness that doesn't surprise me in the least considering everything we're exposed to on a daily basis. Think about it. Technology allows for allergy testing to determine natural culprits of health ailments. If it were possible to do the same type of testing for all of the synthetic/chemical exposures, can you imagine what the results would yield?! I agree that some people may latch on to a vague illness that supports their desire to feel ill, but come on people, think outside of the box. Researchers continue to have a job for a reason. There is just too much out there that we do not know (and probably won't in our lifetime). kb

You may want to look at working in a nursing home as a nursing aide or caregiver. Oftentimes, skilled nursing facilities will train you to take your certified nursing aide state exam. Best of luck to you. -kb.