DC Collins

DC Collins ASN

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All Content by DC Collins

  1. You Might Be A Nursing Student If......

    ...when the words Care Plan make you want to puke. DC
  2. You Might Be A Nursing Student If......

    Get ready for a wild, WILD ride! DC, recent grad (Aug) and ED RN
  3. Student Nurse - interested in E.R.

    Sure :) Be 'on' at all times. Look for opportunities to help the nurses, other techs, charge nurse, etc. Cheerfully turn over the rooms, restocking when things are slow. Within your scope of practice...
  4. I'm with those who say you need to be checking up on the CNAs. You are already wasting time on answering lights, so spend that time instead of checking up on the CNAs. IF you find they are slouching,...
  5. Finding a Nursing Job

    Experience doesn't matter *if* you get some time in front of those who will hire / work with you. Volunteer. *Shining* while doing so is key. During your clinicals, *shine*. Make them *ask you* to...
  6. I am with those who say that EBP and ACIP do not recommend aspiration as you described it. However, while in school, *unless* it is a matter of pt safety, which this is not, *always* go with what the...
  7. What will you do after floor nursing?

    All of the above are good possibilities. I am 49 now and just starting my nursing career in the ED. I think, think mind you, that I might eventually like to end my career as a CRNA. I would still be...
  8. Definitely the best gift is recognition - thank you's, high marks on surveys, and letters that go to the brass. DC
  9. Student Nurse - interested in E.R.

    That is exactly what attracted me to being an ED nurse. That is why I am one now. DC
  10. Student Nurse - interested in E.R.

    Same here in WA State. No official rule, but the three hospitals at which I applied for a tech position said they only hired EMTs or Paramedics as techs. But yes, get your foot in the door, either by...
  11. Experienced RN Job Market.

    When the economy turns around, the RN's that came back to work, and those who delayed retirement, will make some holes for the rest of us lowlifes, lol. DC
  12. You Guys Are Making Me Worry.

    I agree with all the above sentiments Lisa. I just graduated this last August and just turned 49 today. I had no prior clinical experience whatsoever, but am now an ED nurse. How did I do it when...
  13. Coworker issues - so disheartening

    The above posters are correct. However, a thought. You might do something pleasant for her, in spite of how she is acting toward you. Something that shows recognition. Maybe a thank you card on your...
  14. Floor Emergencies

    Hear,
  15. how well did your clinicals prepare you?

    Grats girl, glad its working out for you :) I don't know about going *right* back...maybe one more quarter off first :) But then,
  16. How long is clinical prep?

    The method seems to be different everywhere. But yeah, gathering of data before, working out careplans, etc. takes *forever* in the beginning, but gets faster throughout the quarter/semester. DC
  17. Students close to graduation...

    I don't want to bum you out, but between what I have seen personally, and anecdotal evidence from all over the country, the job market is *tough* right now. I highly advice that in your last...
  18. What kind of holiday bonus do you get?

    Give your free turkey to a local food bank? I'm a new-hire who won't get his first paycheck for another two weeks. My family has been hitting the food banks for the last few weeks after my wife lost...
  19. What kind of holiday bonus do you get?

    You may need a new place to
  20. Dear Precepting Student:

    Well now, I guess that would depend on the state in which you are a student. In my state, even early students can insert basic IVs under the watchful eye of an RN. My school even had an optional IV...
  21. I am with PMFB and LunahRN - I too would be worried if you weren't scared. And have another round, from me, of, "Ask, ask, ask." Besides, those 90 days (or more - nothing wrong with that at all) you...
  22. how well did your clinicals prepare you?

    I loved my ADN program. The entire last quarter was 95% hands on, precepted clinicals (mine in the ED). Having been a hospital volunteer for several years in various departments, in each and every one...
  23. Registration By RNs in Triage or ER Registration Clerk?

    This is the method our facility uses. Protects us / the pt from the chance of $ affecting care, but basic, necessary info for triage / room placement is gathered immediately. DC
  24. Per Diem outside of ER?

    This won't get you money, but it is an interesting experience to volunteer at a local free clinic. They will *love* you for it (if they don't you should find another place). A sense of fulfillment...
  25. ER RN vs EMS

    I can tell you that the EDs with which I am familiar LOVE having medics as Techs. If you need work while in school, I recommend this route. Not only do you see 'what you are getting into', but in...