GoalsInTransition

I can't complain about a gold-standard, can I?

Yes indeed

Health Assessment in particular mystified me. We used the exact same textbook as for undergrad, and the tests were of a similar difficulty level (in my opinion). As a distance student, I don't regularly interact with my classmates to get their feedback. I haven't had what I would consider "fluff" classes yet, but certainly my biggest challenge (pharm) lies ahead. I guess I should count my blessings and await the upcoming "fun". :-)

Well, I am only part-time, so that may skew my opinion. I have not yet done clinicals, so I am speaking about didactic courses. I felt that the content has not been much more challenging than my undergrad courses. In one sense, I am relieved, since I work full time and have a family; on the other hand, I feel like I need to be "whipped into shape" in order to emerge a competent novice NP. I really don't mean to compain-- my school is wonderful- supportive faculty, wonderful lecturers, etc. I guess I was just expecting something super-intense. I'm just curious to know if others feel similarly (or the exact opposite) about their progrms. Thanks for the replies. :-)

Does anyone out there feel like they are in need of more "tough love" from their program? I am enjoying the experience, and there are certainly some challenges, but I find myself wishing it was harder-- with the idea that I will be a better NP if I go through a super-tough program. A penny for your thoughts...

Thank you both. I only wanted a potential preceptor to be aware, so that they could begin to evaluate me (and my interests) as a candidate for a preceptorship, based upon their patient case mix- and not because I wanted to complete my hours in a specialty practice. :-)

Yes, I am planning well in advance! I am seeking an Adult Primary Care NP in Maryland or Southern PA who may be avilable to precept me for the Fall of 2014. I am most interested in Geriatrics, Oncology and Palliative care specialities. If anyone may be available, please respond or message me. I am happy to provide a resume, or to answer any questions about myself or the program I am in. Many thanks, Stacy

I don't want to "jump on" this OP, but an attitude adjustment is in order. The economy is affecting workers of all ages, and this individual seems incredibly insensitive to the impact on older workers- which OP will one day be. I feel for anyone looking for a job right now, including OP, but really? I was a new grad RN not too long ago (2years), and it was the same tough market. But complaining (and embracing a bitter, entitled attitude) does not get anyone a job. To OP, try to start working in any capacity you can, support yourself as much as you can financially, and let go of the anger. Everyone has made a choice that didn't give the expected results. Adjust accordingly. It is called resilience, and it will bode well for you if you embrace it.

I have two little ones at home. I definitely see some terribly sad things at work (inpatient hospice). Honestly, I just tell myself to learn the lessons my patients and families teach me (things they DID learn, and others they totally missed out on). 1) focus on what's important in my life, and spend my time wisely 2) tell people I love them, show it and mean it 3) speak the truth even when its hard; putting it off wastes time and can make the situation worse When I go home and see my sweet babies after a work day full of tears and sick people, my kids remind me to laugh and enjoy what a great gift we have- time to spend together. I rarely worry about them getting sick; I do, however, occasionally worry that I will get sick and not be around for them. Again, I just take time to reflect on the above, and try to be grateful that we still have time together. My oldest (7) is just starting to understand what mommy does, and we are having great conversations about how mommy helps people who are very sick, and will die soon, and how mommy helps them feel better while the are still alive. My job has really made me a more reflective person, and I hope I continue to learn from it. Now, if I were REALLY smart, I'd drop 40 lbs and do more cardio, too. :-) Enjoy your kids, try to let go of the worries. If it gets to be too much, definitely seek professional help if you think you may need it. And use your vacation time, for goodness sake!

Hi there, On our unit, we typically have 4-6 patients/nurse and one tech for 10-12 patients, both days and nights. We have some VERY high acuity patients (vents, drains, drips, chest tubes) and others who are more "typical" hospice patients (one main symptom, fewer tubes, etc.). It can be rather med/surg-ish at times, but with some wonderful differences: 1) Awesome teamwork, everyone (nearly) with the same philosophy, goals of care, etc 2) Treatments and meds are pared down to what will benefit the patient 3) Extra support from psychosocial services (chaplain, SW, music therapy) 4) More empowered nurse practice I really enjoy my job- with a few reservations. Feel free to PM me with specific questions. :-)

Often, just switching narcs (even at equianalgesic doses) can produce better results. Is either Oxy or Dilaudid an option, even for breakthrough coverage? I have had good luck giving Ativan 1-2 mg and Zofran 8mg ATC for patients with various gastric symptoms (q 4-6 h); both have the added benefit of mild sedation (AKA "relaxation"). I agree with you, though, in that the 30 of MS Contin (though increased significantly from the initial dose) is not nearly what the patient needs right now... Time to step it up-- lets hope your ordering provider is on board. Also, we give Roxanol q 1 hour PRN. Good luck-- and let us know what works!

Many previous threads about Vanderbilt admissions show a number of applicants accepted with GPAs in this range. Common themes in their applications are significant work/volunteer experience, great GRE scores, amazing essays, and a passion for the selected specialty. I would recommend to try to "wow" them with your analytic writing score. It's a tough area to get a high score in, and graduate education requires a significant amount of scholarly writing. I don't think that there is any reason your GPA would keep you from admission if you can show what a great candidate you are as a whole. Best of luck!

Hi Everyone, I'm in for the AGPCNP program, part-time distance. I'm live in the Baltimore area, and would love to hear any good advice about where to stay while in town during blocks. Is the driving horrendous in Nashville? I'm considering staying in a cheaper hotel and renting a car versus staying in the nearby hotels... Looking forward to meeting everyone!

For those of you interested in research nursing, many universities (tied to hospitals) have a fair amount of jobs in this category. They are often willing to train you in research-related skills if you bring your RN skills, some enthusiasm for the patient population/condition being studied, and a good attitude. Yes, the pay range may be slightly lower (though this is not always true), but you will find intellectually stimulating work, a great schedule, and often colleagues who truly care about their work-- and are not burned out. I would be happy to answer specific questions via PM.

Maybe if you described some jobs or duties you have previously enjoyed, that would guide responders toward suggesting possible career paths? I always love to suggest clinical research nursing for those who want great work hours (usually 9-5ish hours), a courteous, professional atmosphere, and relatively predictable duties. Beware, however, if you do not like computer/paperwork, this may not be for you :-) Best of luck to you--- there are SO many other options for you, and there is NO reason to feel guilty about not liking floor nursing! You'll find a good fit if you keep looking.