SoniaNurseRep

Droplet Transmission Droplet transmission, theoretically, is a form of contact transmission. However, the mechanism of transfer of the pathogen to the host is quite distinct from either direct- or indirect-contact transmission. Therefore, droplet transmission is considered a separate route of transmission in this guideline. Droplets are generated from the source person primarily during coughing, sneezing, and talking, and during the performance of certain procedures such as suctioning and bronchoscopy. Transmission occurs when droplets containing microorganisms generated from the infected person are propelled a short distance through the air and deposited on the host's conjunctivae, nasal mucosa, or mouth. Because droplets do not remain suspended in the air, special air handling and ventilation are not required to prevent droplet transmission; that is, droplet transmission must not be confused with airborne transmission. Airborne Transmission Airborne transmission occurs by dissemination of either airborne droplet nuclei (small-particle residue [5 µm or smaller] of evaporated droplets containing microorganisms that remain suspended in the air for long periods) or dust particles containing the infectious agent. Microorganisms carried in this manner can be dispersed widely by air currents, and may be inhaled by a susceptible host within the same room or over a longer distance from the source patient, depending on environmental factors; therefore, special air handling and ventilation are required to prevent airborne transmission. Microorganisms transmitted by airborne transmission include Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the measles and varicella viruses.

Hi Estrogen, Although I have never been layed off, I've been involved with several layoffs in recent years. Layoffs are extremely stressful, exhausting, disruptive, etc., but let's face it, the bottom line is that they are running a business and patient care may not be the priority. Unfortunately, since you are a new-hire, and if they are indeed looking to reduce the RN staff, you may be one of the first to go. I'm sure we would all agree that, unionized or not, it must be done by seniority, unless you work in an area that requires special/unique skills, and that favoritism (or kissing up) has no place here. Good luck!

I agree that being a Preceptor can be difficult and must be voluntary, but have you ever wondered what would happen if we all shared your feelings. Another aspect is that it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure that the working conditions are condusive to teaching/learning. Maybe then, we would be willing to bite the bullet, for the future of nursing!

Beautifully and perfectly said (and expressed with much spirituality!).

Although I love nursing, it can be difficult many times, no matter how long your shift is.

ABSOLUTELY NOT BORING! In fact, since the nursing shortage is global, I would surprised if anyone responds to say that it is.

Hi DuskTillDawn, Believe me, when you're working at the bedside, you will wish to be as bored as you may be right now, even in a small hospital. It is quite different when you're the one actually doing the "nursing". With regards to the 12-hour shifts, they have their pros and cons, but most of us would NEVER give them up! In fact, after you subtract the break period (you're SUPPOSED to get!), you may only be working an additional 3 hours, more or less. However, you need to understand that it truly does not matter if you're working 8 hours or 12, because the work load and the stress is there 24/7 and most times, there NEV ER seems to be enough time to get it all done. Clock? What clock? Bathroom? What bathroom? Break? What's a break?? ENJOY THIS "BORING" TIME WHILE YOU CAN AND WELCOME ABOARD!!