OD-NT

Yep, I've experienced the drama (Excessive whining and blaming r/t imperfect performance...., MAJOR dilema r/t MINOR infraction..., etc). Nursing school is a microcosm of the nursing work world. It is an opportunity to learn how to deal with it effectively while consequences are minimal. Old Dog

I'm at that same spot in life also. I had a lot of questions about what it would be like to work in an ER environment. Would I like it? Would I fit in? Is it like TV? What do nurses like/dislike about their jobs? Do Respiratory Therapists have it better than RNs? Could I handle it? I decided to volunteer in a local hospital so that I could observe firsthand. It was a great experience. As an ER Critical Volunteer, the main part of my job was to stop in and visit each patient and answer any questions that they had and find out if they needed anything (pillow, blanket, or whatever). I also ran errands for nurses and transported patients. In return, I had a lot of questions answered, gained some experience and observed a lot! I volunteered for just 4 hours once a week. I can't recommend a program like this enough if you are considering a medical career and just want to check it out. There are also a lot of paying part-time positions in nearly all hospital areas that will provide a similar experience if the volunteer program isn't as strong. -Steve