Mariannsi

I've been in nursing on and off for ten years. Became an LPN in 2005 and went back to school graduated in May of this year (2008), and just found out I passed the boards - Literally this week. Prior to taking my exam, I applied for a position in a local hospital (Level 1 Trauma center) in the ER and was hired on the spot - I thought I was just going to an open house. I feel very fortunate to have the position because the training is six months long. As a student, I did an externship and worked for three months in ICU and loved it - but something (maybe my hyperactivity) has drawn me to ER. I'm really excited and look forward to the training and starting on the unit. I just want to thank everyone who has written a thread under this specialty because reading the threads has been beneficial for me since I'll be new to ER. Thanks Mare:yeah:

Sometimes, intuition is the best thing!!! Don't Feel Guilty!

It will be hard but definately not impossible! I've just finished a one year LPN to RN program - I'm actually graduating on May 5th with honors (shocking). I also have two children a boy who is 19 and a little girl who is 8 years old. The past year has put a strain on my family life (emotionally and monetarily), but I'm a believer in "Family First" in that I hope that you have a strong support system - family and friends! I am really fortunate because I have three wonderful girl friends who have been there for both my children and myself. Really, my concern was for my little girl, my son is old enough to take care of himself. Well, between the three of my friends my daughter was fed, homework completed and when she and I were together I tried to plan things around tests so that we could spend quality time together - even if it mean't me attending a class trip with her. Now, that school is completed, I have a lot more time, but my daughter just asked me when I have to start studying again for the "Big Test!" I'm taking off for two weeks to sleep, clean and shop!!!! By the way I'm going to be 43 at the end of the month! To keep this short - GOOD LUCK AND YOU CAN DO IT!!!! Just stay focused on your long term goal. Regards and best of luck to you and your family! Mariann

I am also a nurse, who recently underwent a cardiac cat (femoral approach) - it was a week on Monday. My healing process was/is not going to good as I constantly have pain in my right lower quadrant. I also have ecchymosis in my umbilicas. Well, today I've had a CT of the ABD and have a small hematoma formation. My cardiologist stated that it should heal on its own, but also suggested that I may want to seek the opinion of a vascular surgeon. At this pointl, I am in pain and starting a new job tomorrow night (11-7). I opted not to see a vascular surgeon at this time. I have two questions: Can anyone suggest any home remedies to tx the hematoma and how long do these things take to resolve - 2-4 weeks? Any info would be appreciated. Regards, Mariannsi

I want to thank everyone for their support and well wishes. At 12:30 this afternoon I went online and got my results - I PASSED. I've been on cloud 9 ever since. TO ALL OF YOU MY SINCERE THANKS!!!! Mariann

Keep your everything crossed for me!!!!

Merei, You can get your results within 24 hours?? If so, did you pass - I wish you luck. I know the feeling..all too well. Think positive and good luck! Mare

First, want to thank everyone who replied to my post for their support - you guys are the greatest. The computer shut off on mine as well at number 88 - i think I wasn't even looking at the numbers - just answering the questions... I will definately let everyone know my fate. Pearson will allow you to log on to their website for the results - but I have to wait two business days - that means I'll know on Thursday morning. Mare

Good luck -- I'm sure that you've worked hard. Enjoy this time. I'm waiting for my results - not sure what to think. Mariann

I just took my LPN boards today and let me tell you...well I was not anxious before the test -- I walked out of the testing center I felt as if I never went to school. I studied for weeks completed LPN Q&A books (1.5). took a review class the last week of June and felt confident that I should be able to PASS my boards. Well, that feeling was short lived. I'm not sure whether or not I passed of failed. I feel a relief that it was over; but also feel that there is a possibility that I may fall into the 15% OF THOSE THAT DON"T PASS on their first try. My saying is "what's done is done -- now let's move one from here." I don't find out my unofficial results until Thursday when I will be able to check my results on line for $7.95. WILLL I PAYTO CRY OR CHEER!!! I will say this IT WAS HARD! and to anyone who passed on the first try CONGRATS! THE NEXT TWO DAYS WILL BE HARD FOR ME!!!! Thanks for letting me vent - that's why I love this site. Nurses taking care of nurses (or future nurses). Mare

I was a 3rd Semester student in an RN program and was suppose to graduate in Dec. 04. But as life does sometimes throw you a curve ball, changes in my life have forced me to take another road. I feel fortunate that I've completed 3 semesters in an RN Program and because of that I am eligible to become an LPN. I respect all nurses and am proud that I will be taking my boards shortly - as an LPN. In the future, I will be able to earn a reasonable income until I can complete my RN Degree. (RN - BSN!!!)

I've past 50% of my nursing classes and now have decided that I want to finish up my degree on line. Is everyone pleased with distance learning? Can you give me some helpful hints and is the cost high. I wish all of you that are distance learner's the best of luck. Regards Mare

I had a patient who had a total hip replacement performed in 2001. According to the patient the operation was a success. Well, someone told me that this patient should ALWAYS keep a pillow between her legs when she repositions herself in bed (i.e., turns left to right) to prevent possible dislocation. Is this information accurate? Thanks! Nursing Student.

I'm a third semester student 2 Year ADN@ Muhlenberg SON - New Jersey - counting the days til graduation as I'm sure we all are!!!

If and when you decide to tell of the horrific teaching that is happening in your classroom and clinical rotations. Make sure that you are not alone -- get as many classmates as possible and go as a collective group. If you fly solo you may crash and the issue might be considered a personal thing -- you don't want or need that. Make an appointment with your dean 1 to 1 but have everything document in writing and if possible have a petition signed by fellow classmates. Remember if it wasn't written, it wasn't done. Good Luck!