LPN2RN

Eww, that maggots thing is GROSS! I've been in Nursing for about 10 years, most of that time on a pulmonary unit. What can I not handle? Suctioning plugs of mucus from trachs - gives me the dry heaves -weird thing is the feeling of accomplishment I have when I help them clear it... AND slimy, green, algae like C-Diff stool. YUCK!

When in doubt, check with DOQI! Here's the link! http://www.kidney.org/professionals/doqi/doqi/vag12.html We went with the non-peripheral stick method after years of using it. You will find that your patients appreciate not having to stuck. Also, our clientel, as you have noticed, doesn't have such great venous access! So they are difficult draws! We also use Transonic technology to monitor access issues. Good luck!

I've worked 8's, 10's and 12's. Personally, I like the longer shifts. So does my spouse. My patients like it too. They know who their nurse is...I like being able to follow them through. It provides good continuity.

I agree, underappreciated, overextended, compromised...and underpaid, of course. I was a CNA, then an LPN and for some reason, I didn't see the writing on the wall...in May I will be an RN. I truly enjoy providing quality care. That's why I chose to stay in Nursing. BUT: I resent having to work short every day...it compromises care. That's not to say clients don't get quality care, but OH, I could do SO much for them! I resent being so rushed, that I cannot spend an extra few minutes w/pts that need additional TLC...that's the part of nursing I love! I resent the fact that I am told I will stay late, even after my replacement has arrived. If I remember correctly, I have a family too. And I don't see administrative nurses staying to assist. I resent the fact that I am underpaid, and that person's w/less education and fewer responsiblities make more $. But, in the end, I still love what I do. I just want a pat on the back every now and then, and a "job well done" from those that matter. I want a bit of consideration. I want to PRACTICE NURSING. (not housekeeping, maintenance, courrier-ing or any other non-nursing task) I want to care for my client... Recently our facility attempted to unionize. Many of us were torn. Prior to bringing in the union, the nurses attempted to communicate w/administration, only to be threatened, shaken and quieted...so many saying "oh, I can't afford to lose my job!" The biggest thing about the union that so many disliked? - Non nursing personnel representing nursing personnel. Sorry that's definitely a no go. That's what's happening now, in hospitals and LTC facilities and clinics all over the country! Non nursing personnel in positions that can dictate WHAT will happen in the environment in which we provide care... What do we do about it. Get involved. It's part of our profession. Get involved in EVERYTHING, governmental, institutional, political, social, you name it, we should all be there. Raise our voices. My community was appalled at the wages nursing made, once they found out about it. It forced some changes. We are a long way from complete, but we're on our way... (I use my e-mail SO MUCH! Thank God for my computer! It saves me a bunch of time.) Thanks for listening... Julie LPN, soon to be RN