VEBERT1020

I do not know, sincerely....what do nursing unions do for NURSES? Seriously, I am considering nursing in the state of California. How goes it?

Food for thought.....how do the NP's feel about the power struggle? As an example, my daughter is an ARNP who has her own practice/clinic in a small town in Idaho. In other words, she has the same privileges and respect as a doctor. However, where do the majority of NP's work? I don't think they work in hospitals, as a rule. Any thoughts?

I have been living in Seattle since May 2008. And...yes, the weather sucks! Today is March 28, 2009 and snow is predicted. It has been raining for days without any let up.Last year, in the the month of June, I saw the sun for 1/2 day. The sun did come out and stayed for July, Aug., Sept., and Oct. If you enjoy skiing and snowboarding the mountains have had tons and tons of snow this year and another foot is predicted for tonight. Some of them have a 9 foot base. OK, so much for winter weather. I have lived in Chicago, Atlanta, and the mountains of Idaho. All big cities have mucho traffic problems including Seattle. The city has at least 200 days of rain/snow yearly. Since I have SAD, I will be moving soon or will take on a traveling job.I have been able to get a job in any specialty I desire. At this time, I am working Psyche nursing. However Harborview, Swedish and Virginia Mason are the best hospitals for all kinds of specialties. Oh, least I forget, the cost of living is VERY HIGH! Good luck!

I have gone back to nursing after 20 years. It's never too late. I totally understand the financial aspects of your dilemma as I was in the same boat. 20 years ago, nurses were not earning what they do today;certainly not as much at the time as an Engineer working for a Fortune 500 computer company. I, too, had small children and was completely responsible for them.

Thanks for your concern. I have a mentor and once I pass the NCLEX I will be taking a refresher course and then an extensive preceptorship. And...afterward, I will be interning at a Psyche hospital. The NCLEX-PN, tests entry-level practice of practical/vocational nursing. No matter where I work, I will be supervised by an RN. I was instructed by the Board to take the NCLEX-PN rather than the RN. Additionally, I have been a certified Addiction Counselor for 15 years, consequently it's not like I have been out of the medical arena.

I graduated 20 yrs ago and failed NCLEX-RN. So...here I am today,garbage in my life behind me, consequently much more focused. I have never given up on my dream! I have been advised by my Nursing Board in state of Washington to take the NCLEX-PN first, work as an LPN, and at some time in the future, take the NCLEX-RN. The Board is also going to help me find a mentor. Sounds like a plan! I am reviewing Kaplan NCLEX-PN (2010) and find it very useful. But, YEEK! I feel I should be using more reviews. Any and all advise is appreciated. Thanks! :bowingpur

I bought the Kaplan-PN (2010). Has anyone used this for review?

I graduated 20 yrs ago and failed the NCLEX. I finally have boosted my courage and will be taking the NCLEX-PN. Am reviewing Kaplan-PN (2010) and am wondering if anybody else recommends it. Also, how do I get a mentor?