clc007

I would also recommend brushing up on your pathophysiology regarding not only general ICU conditions, but Cardiac specific conditions as well (i.e., Acute MI, Cardiogenic Shock, PE, CHF, DVT, Airway Management, etc.). I have always found it helpful to try to break down the patient's disease process in order to anticipate what the needs of that patient are at that particular moment & what possible adverse events could occur. Also, don't feel disappointed if you feel that you are not "catching on" to things or if you feel that others are smarter & more prepared than you are. I have worked in CVICU for over 2 years now and I still learn new things about disease processes & management every day. I agree with Biff that you need to understand normal lab values & x-ray results as well. The best advice I can give to you is to be interactive with your providers to understand the provider's rationale & stay motivated to learn as much as you can. If you have an Itouch or Iphone, some apps I have found helpful have been Medscape (provided by WebMD) and Libermann's Radiology app. Both are free (last time I checked) & they provide useful insight & study tools for drugs, disease processes & management, labs, & assessment findings. Good luck with your career in the CVICU! Chris :)

Hi everyone! My name is Chris and I currently work in a Cardiac ICU. I have recently been accepted into an MSN-FNP program to begin this August. I was wondering if any of you would be willing to share your experiences with me regarding how you handled the transition from the "RN thinking" style to thinking more like a provider. Also, if there are any references you would be willing to share with me concerning how to think more like a primary provider I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks in advance, Chris

This post is geared toward the spouses of those who are SRNA's. I am currently contemplating pursuing going for my CRNA, but from what I have read, it seems that it takes a LOT of time away from your family. I am married and my wife and I are looking at beginning to try to have children in the next 2 years. I would really like to hear from SRNA's that have kids or spouses of SRNA's to see what exactly your opinions are in regard to the time commitment it takes to get through a CRNA program. Any information is appreciated. Thanks, Chris

rnattorney, Thanks for the insight. That really solidified what my thought process was about the whole situation. Now I feel that my decision will be more informed. Sincerely, clc007

Hello everyone, I am looking at graduating this December with my BSN (thank goodness!). I have always entertained the idea of going back to school next Fall (2010) to begin my FNP degree at a part-time status. I was wondering if any of you had any opinions on whether it would be beneficial to go ahead and get the masters or if I should look at going straight for the DNP at a part-time status. Either way, I want to go part time in order to gain some experience as an RN before going into the world of NP. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, clc007