TheManGN

I've been starting IV caths for 16 years, the only difference between an18g and a 20 is how it's written on paper. I only started 18's if the Dr. ordered it. Our CT dept. got a 20g take it or leave it, but then again the techs couldnt start an IV on a waterhose. Remember its the clients perception of pain that matters. 18's are not pleasent, and you can get the same results from a 20g even with a power injector. The Man GN:banghead:

It depends are were you are at and on the instructor. My clinicals was at a county hospital here in Houston, and my instructor was hard nose. I was the only male in my clinicals, but the hospital and staff were great. I experienced everything, from vag. exams(dilitations, and effacement) to watching a c-sec. Its was very educational. Also working in the nursery was great. but show your instructor that you want to learn. My instructor spent more time with me, since I was the only male. Ob is now my strongest subject. But try to experience all you can- you won't regreat it. The Man GN:banghead:

I had a instructor like that in my last semester, I would try to know all I can about my client. Then I would pour on the questions to the instructor, she was pretty sharp, but I learn more in that semester than all others. There are actually some good teachers out there, the intimidating one's are the ones that want you to learn. There were a few like that at my college. So use this experince to learn all you can, believe me you will be able to tell the difference on your exams, and it really helps with the Hesi. The Man GN

Working and going to nursing school can get tough at times. We all can remember the late nights of writting care plans. But when juggling work and school, my advice is to have a good study schedule. Sometime I know its hard, but figure out your study time for the week and stick to it, especially around test time. Always have some study material with you were ever you go. If you have a few minutes somewhere pull it out and study. You will be suprised how much you can remember in a short study period. Well I wish you all the best and I will be praying for everyone. The Man GN:banghead:

I worked as a cna throughout nursing school. Now I have graduated, pass the Hesi, and now waiting to take the NCLEX this month. It was hard to juggle a full time job, a family, and the bills. But it worked out. My advise is keep your head in the books, study hard and do well. Do not worry about what anybody else thinks. (Just remember your goals, and your dreams. The big pay check doesnt hurt either.) The Man GN:eek: