melloyello

Nothing will ever replace the natural intuition of knowing when something is "not right" with your patient than EXPERIENCE! It is experience working several years with critically ill, unstable patients that gives you this intuitive knowing and ability to intervene in the appropriate manner when it is necessary. You absolutely cannot "learn" this type of skill with 1-2 years experience. At least 4 years in an intensive care environment would be ideal to even begin thinking about applying to nurse anesthesia programs. I certainly would not want someone with 1-2 years nursing experience providing my anesthesia, versus someone with >4 years....the amount of information, confidence, and intuition that you learn in those additional ICU years is PRICELESS!

I wouldn't worry about it....you will eventually get hired. Hang in there. A lot of hospitals are having hiring freezes and cutbacks. It will resolve in a brief time and jobs will be plentiful again! I know it's easier said than done, but try not to worry about it. If you are concerned about your references perhaps you could call the nurse manager who interviewed you and ask specifically why you did not get the position. Don't be afraid to inquire...you have a right to know so you can change or improve your job search strategy. Take care and don't worry....

I think that any mid-level Littman stethescope is fine. I have auscultated lung fields through very expensive stethescopes and really do not hear much of a difference. Frankly I think using a stethescope is like driving our own car---we become accustomed to our own stethescope and learn to hear what is relevant or irrelevant when listening to someone. I actually prefer my very own mid-to-upper level Littman over the fancier ones!

I definitely encourage working in a hospital prior to clinicals. It will help tremendously! Many hospitals will hire you as a nursing student even before clinicals. There are always long-term care facilities that would be willing to hire you nursing student or not. Any exposure to patient care you can get will definitely benefit you in the long run.