4amcoffee

Wow. Lively discussion. Whoever used the phrase "floor dynamics" to describe this kind of in-fighting- I love it. I'm always astonished at how an innocent, neutral comment or question can spark such a rash of insult hurling on this site. What is it with nursing? But, thanks to all for the thought-provoking posts (even the hostile ones). Don't worry. This money-grubbing idiot of a nurse has decided against NA school. And it gives me relief to say it: I hate working in the ICU.

Are there any CNMs out there who'd be willing to share what their work schedule is like? If you would, please include the hours per week you work and where you put those hours in. How much call do you take? I would really love to get a feel for how it really is "in the field". Thanks so much.

I want to be a CRNA because I am the breadwinner of my family and need to bring home some more bread AND because I want the kind of flexible scheduling I so often see written into CRNA job postings. Since it will never be the case that I can be at home with my children (I have to make money), I hope to be at home with them as often as possible. First... Are these the wrong reasons to go into this difficult specialty? Second, Is it true that I have to kiss my family goodbye for the 2 + years that I am in school? I am a hard worker, and was always a good student, but the thought of having no time with my children for 2 years (that I can't ever get back) is heartbreaking to me. Is there just no way around it? Thanks a lot for your input.

So, I am working on setting up some shadowing experiences with a CRNA (or a few of them), but wanted to see if any of you out there can answer a few questions I have. First, I would imagine that the OR is typically a very controlled environment. But, how often does something go wrong, and what does that situation typically look like? What is the anesthetist's role in these situations? I guess I'm looking for some stories. Would anyone like to share? Thanks.