travelbug1

So would you say it is better or not to be unionized? I have never worked in a state where there was a nursing union so I don't know.

Oops! I completely forgot another very important piece to consider- any credentialling or testing that the staff does will give you an idea of needs as well. Look at test scores etc.

Hi! Tell me something about your background. Is this the first job of this type you have held? You could start by just spending time with the nurses at the bedside observing. That would give you as assessment of what you see as needs. Then ask as many as possible what they see as needs. Lastly go to the nurse manager, charge nurses and get their input. After you have gathered all of that you can begin to prioritize needs with your bosses input. Hope this helps.:kiss

I don't think they want to be everything to everybody , they just want to look good to higher administration and the docs. If they keep the docs happy then administration is happy. They seem to just blow which ever way the wind blows so they don't ruffle feathers or cause waves.

I've seen the same thing happen at places I have worked and it makes me sad because nurses need to feel that the nurses at the top of the organization stand up for their staff . With everything else we have to put up with the lack of support is the worst.

Sharon, Yes this is a scarey post because if you are already in a CNS program you should have a good solid clinical background to draw from- otherwise you will lack credibility- which I am afraid is what comes through in your post. Also, who is Linda you refer to?

Ann, I have been a CNS for many years practicing in a variety jobs. I suggest that you first establish yourself as someone the nursing staff can trust. They must see you as a nurse. period. Not someone with alot of fancy letters after her name. Once they see that you are on their side and are one of them you will be able to move ahead.

Are you a new RN? It sounds as though you have never done a clinical rotation. Please elaborate.