okrn0824

OUMC has a busy ICU especially since its the only Level 1 trauma center in the area!

The only test offered so far was the beta exam this fall. It sold out in ten minutes or something like that. The tests was designed thru the ENA and Pediatric Nursing Certification board. Testing starts Jan. 21 per the website. There are two really good books you can use to study: ENA - Core Curriculum for Pediatric Emergency Nursing & Mosby's Comprehensive Emergency Care. I obtained my CPN in June of 2007 and plan on taking this test this summer as well. If anyone has taken it...details would be great. http://www.pncb.org/ptistore/control/exams/cpen/index

I love 8 wk assignments bc is goes by so much faster and you can do anything for 2 months. Plus if it turns out you hate it you only have 8 wks and if you love it you can alway extended if they need you!

They have numerous in the Philly area and also right inside NJ. I was at Crozer Chester Medical Center in Chester, PA just south of the airport. I stayed in Wilmington and it was great. Chester will be needing travelers for a long time so give fastaff a call!

If anyone wants info on strike nursing or states that might - http://www.usnursing.com is one the main strike/work action companies. My first travel assignment was actually a strike and it ended up getting resolved before the strike date. I had already flown to the area and was ready to work. The money was really good - fast cash and did no work. Plus, I got meet and talk to nurses all over the US and learned a lot of info. I understand while nurses strike but I am there to make fast cash.

I am a traveler with fastaff and just finished an assignment in Philly area. Fastaff is all about making you the most money possible. I worked 60+ plus hrs a week for 8 wks. They have a contract with Extended Stay America's which has a small kitchen. The one next to the Philly airport is horrible and close to nothing. So I ended up finding a Days Inn in Wilmington, DE which was on 10-15 from the hospital and it was near everything and anything I could ever need. I would say it would be hard to travel with two boxers staying in a hotel but some of the positions are 13wks in which they will put you up in an apartment. Just talk with you recruiter. if you or anyone has any other questions please fill free to ask!

Thank you to all of you. I got the job and I am excited. Starting next week. You made me feel much better about this new adventure. haha I did get some critical care software downloaded to my pocket pc. I never had an interview by the facility but my recruiter told them my background. She seemed like they didn't care and that they would work with me. So i am going for it and can't wait!

So I have been a pediatric ER nurse for 2 years and just starting to travel. The company that I am working with asked if I am comfortable working in an adult ER. I have ACLS, PALS, TNCC, ENPC, and NRP. I feel comfortable working in an adult ER becuase I have the basic knowledge down but I just don't have the clinical experience with adults. One thing is all the different drugs that adults are on. I also know that 80% of kids are seen in regular non-children's ER. So I know I will get a pediatric patient here and there. So does anyone have any advice that they could give me going to an adult ER?

I work at both hospitals and choice is really up to you on what you want. OUMC is a big and busy hospital that offers alot of services that only available there - trauma, research, and crazy new procedures or something. Plus, it's a teaching hospital so you have deal with that - could be good or bad. It seems the nurses run the show more than the docs. LOL Norman is a smalller community hospital well everyone knows each other. Your chances of getting opted are greater because there are slow times. It was hard getting use to not having a dr always available in house and you have to kiss alot of butt b/c you don't wanna **** a dr. off. I work prn at norman because I live in norman and my job is more laid back. OUMC not so much - its crazy from second you walk until you get in your car an hour after you shift ended. haha I think both are good hospitals - each have there pros and cons. Both have good and bad reps for patient care. PS Two things - norman does take good care of their employees & the food is way better!