Classof2010

I agree not to limit yourself. I always thought I would work in the hospital, but I got a job in a doctor's office and love it! I have nights, weekends, and holidays off and it's lower stress than a hospital. It's not where I thought I'd end up, but I'm so happy:)

I have heard that Texas-Arlington is a very cost effective way to go. I believe the program is under $7000.00 and I've heard that you don't have to do any clinical hours with that program, that it is strictly online. A few of my old co-students are looking into Texas-Arlington.

I am graduating this June and was in the same situation. I opted to keep my waitressing job. At times I regret it because being a CNA would have been really helpful before nursing school. Many of the nursing students in my class that were CNA's prior to school felt more comfortable the first couple of terms. But, I think my decision was the best for me. I made good money and you learn and refine skills waitressing that are invaluble to nursing. I never thought I would say that waitressing gave me great skills, but it did! It teaches you to multi-task like crazy and deal with a variety (sometimes dare I say difficult) personalities both are so important to nursing. So, I would say that those skills are just as important as CNA skills. Being a CNA is great for networking though, which in today's job market is very important!

I don't have any advice, I just wanted to send my thoughts and prayers to you. I am in the same position. My 20 year old brother is bipolar and recently it has been devastating our family. He has party/addiction issues. I'm in my last year of nursing school and know how emotionally draining it is. Remember to take care of yourself first and don't let family issues rule your own life. I know how hard it is, will be thinking good thoughts for you and your sister.:heartbeat:heartbeat:heartbeat

It wouldn't hurt to go for a second opinion. Maybe ask the doctor how he/she feels about a beta-blocker. I actually did do anything different other than taking the beta-blocker. It worked wonders for me because my heart rate wasn't racing. There are some great threads on this site about good study habits, you may want to search for them to see if some of their techniques may work for you. Good luck!

I know exactly how you feel. Last year on my 1st Pharmacology test I got an "F". I don't think I have ever got an "F" in my life. I went and talked to the instructor, he showed me what I got wrong. I have bad test anxiety, so my doctor prescribed propanolol 10mg to take before each test. It has been a life saver! Talk to your instructor, sometimes they are willing to give you more time or take the test in another room if you have test taking anxiety. And to answer your question...Yes, it's very possible to come back! I got A's on the rest of the tests and almost got an A by the end of the term. You'll be fine, be sure to use all of the resources that are available to you.:)

Peds is the best! It can be a little scary because the kiddos are usually pretty sick, but believe me the nurses are very protective on peds floor (rightfully so!), so you have lots of back up! Just remember to use words they can relate to like tummy instead of abdomen, that sort of thing. If you have to get a BP, I always tell them that the BP cuff is going to give their arm a hug. Always be honest with them. If something is going to hurt, tell them, then tell them that it's okay to cry if it does hurt. The most important piece of advice: negotiating with stickers! Good luck and have fun, it's definitely my favorite unit!

The OP was simply asking if they could do something to help in Haiti. Your response was rude and not necessary. I'm sure they realized that they wouldn't be in the operating rooms, passing meds or working as an RN. How about thanking the poster for their wanting to help instead of berating them for asking a valid question?

I graduate in June and nursing school has been great in many ways! Yes, it's hard. Yes, you will sacrifice a lot...But, you will meet great people, patients, and learn so much. It has been a hard road, but I have many good memories of nursing school and I'm sure you will too. When things get really tough remind yourself how fortunate you are to be in a nursing program, so many people are waiting to get in. Keeping a positive attitude will really help and before you know it you'll be done!

I am a first semester nursing student also. Your story made me cry. Partly, because it was sad, but mostly because I thought you handled yourself so well. I hope when I am put in a similar situation that I handle myself with half of your grace and strength. You will make a great nurse. You've been tested early and passed with flying colors. Remember to take care of yourself and to deal with your feelings. Lots of prayers and hugs.:redbeathe:redbeathe

Hi, I'll throw my 2 cents in. I was raised in Eugene (very sheltered and not very diverse at all, however very liberal). I moved to Portland for more diversity. Portland has a fairly large African American population, especially in NE Portland. I don't see racial issues in Portland, but my nephew who is African American has had issues in Eugene. Oregon may have a "redneck" reputation, but I don't see this in the larger cities. It is a beautiful diverse city. Portland is great!

Congratulations to both of you! Yeah!!:heartbeat

I do not live in the Chemeketa district. Good luck! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

Thank you! I am so excited and feel so blessed. Looking forward to the journey.

Hi Kermit27908, My letter FINALLY came from Chemeketa. I was put on an alternate list, #17 (yikes). I will be accepting Lane's offer. Good luck to you, I hope you got in! It's pretty tough to swallow to not get in with 310 points...