Shenandoah

Hi everyone, I'm currently working in a LIII in Denver, but will be moving to Dallas in the next few months to be closer to my elderly (don't tell them I used that word!) parents. It seems that there are a LOT of LIIIs in the Dallas area. Can anyone give me any feedback about the reputations of the NICUs in Dallas? I really enjoy attending deliveries, so would not want to work at a children's only hospital, and would really like to move into a transport position in a few years. I currenly work for an HCA facility, so could probably transfer easily, but have been told that I could make more $$$ if I were to go to a new company. Any feedback would be welcome! Thanks ya'll! Shenandoah

Our unit restricts visitors to parents and grandparents only during RSV season.

I understand your fears, believe me. But you know what? When you're 40, you'll still be 40, and you'll be wondering why you didn't go back to school when you were at the tender age of 37! :) I'm 37 now, and have been a NICU RN for 18 months. It's the best career decision I ever made. Good luck to you!!

I've been a NICU RN for about a year and a half now. Although not actively seeking a new job, I believe that it never hurts to have an updated resume handy. My question is this: How detailed do you make your resume? Do you include all skills, equipment, etc. that you've used, or is that implied in an RN resume? Does anyone out there have any websites where I can view sample RN resumes? Or anyone out there in a hiring position that would be willing to review my resume for me? Thanks, Shenandoah

I would love to donate some time to a mission like this. I've looked online, but haven't found any related to our field. Does anyone have any info or websites?

Thanks again, everyone, for all of your input. Now I just need to find a willing patient to try your suggestions on! We don't do them too often in our facility, maybe one or two per month. All of our staff nurses do art sticks at our facility, and only those who have training place CVCs (although anyone can sign up for the training). Our NNPs and MDs do all of our umbilical lines & PALs. Thanks again! Shenandoah

Thanks, ya'll. Gompers, that's a great idea lining it up with the index finger. I'll definitely have to give that a try. I just don't do them often enough - I feel that every time is my first! Thanks again!

Hey ya'll, I've been a NICU RN for a little over a year now. The one skill that I continue to have problems with is arterial sticks. I'm only running about 50/50 on those. Any advice for me out there? Thanks!

Rosie, I was placed on the wait-list for FRCC in May of 2002. I just got in this Spring ('04). I'm hoping that I will be able to work full time and go to school full time as well. When I was placed on the wait-list, I was told to expect a schedule of 8-5 Monday-Friday. I received my schedule for this spring and that is fairly accurate. Classes are 5 days a week before clinicals begin, then it averages 3 days of classes and two days of clinicals per week this semester. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions, I'd be happy to answer them if I can. Shenandoah

I grew up in The Woodlands and have lived in both Austin and Dallas as well. I hate to disappoint you, but large flying roaches live in all three areas. Feel free to PM me if you would like to chat more about any of the cities. Shenandoah

Thanks, I appreciate your replys. I have decided to go ahead and begin the program and Front Range. There were many factors in my decision, but mostly cost of tuition and commute time. I'll be working full time while in school, so the hour commute to downtown was definitely a factor. Thanks for your input and encouragement. I can't wait to get started!

Maybe this site will shed some light on the subject... http://www.reyessyndrome.org/aspirin.htm

A cover letter is VERY important. Think of it like a preview or "coming attractions". It's what grabs attention and peaks interest in your resume. No one will call you for an interview if they haven't read your resume.

Hi all, I'm really glad to see a state forum - what a great idea. Is there anyone out there that is involved in the hiring process? I've heard conflicting data on which schools' reputations are best here in Denver. I've finished my pre-reqs and am planning on getting into a nursing program next year. There is a chance that I can get into Front Range in January (to get an ADN) or I can begin a BSN program at UCHSC in June. I don't want to get into the whole ADN/BSN debate, as I believe that each program has it's pros and cons. What I'd like to know is the reputation of each school's graduates when it comes to getting a job after graduation. Any thoughts? Thanks, Shenandoah

I'm with you. I believe her wishes should be taken into consideration. What I don't understand is why her parents would want to hold onto her life the way it is. I think it's cruel and I admire her husband for fighting so hard for her.