evansmum

Hello! Thank you so much for your response--it is greatly appreciated! I suppose I didn't go into as much depth as I should have....I have been working in the ER for two years now as an RN. I initially worked trauma, so along with my BLS/ACLS, I also carry TNCC, and have been entertaining the idea of sitting for my CEN. I am just now graduating in August from USF with my BSN, since I went part-time after graduating with my ADN (although, an accomplishment, none-the-less!) This is my third baby, and as you said, the commute is deterring to me...I hated it before, and being a Florida girl at heart, I dread a long commute when winter decides to settle in up in Kansas...I fear the commute will be anxiety-ridden! I hate passing up such a great opportunity, because the benefits are certainly alluring (especially all of that PTO!), but I just can't help but feel that it's not the right move. There's so much up in the air concerning my husband's actual ETS date, that I fear he wouldn't make it up for the birth of our daughter, and I don't want to take that experience from him (plus, I WANT him there!). Plus, it's a swing shift, and I feel like that would be a bit difficult to finagle on my own with my older two--especially with one entering kindergarten. Sigh. Infiltrating the VA system seemed like the perfect opportunity--especially as a veteran, myself, and with dreams of continuing my education: great stability, great benefits, etc... But, Kansas City is far from the place I want to raise my family, and I'd love to stay more rural in the country, and have only a slight commute to my position. I suppose I should get in contact with HR and submit my decision. I just hope I don't regret it!

Good afternoon, all! I would genuinely appreciate some insight from other nurses who have worked, or currently work, for the VA Health system. I was given a conditional offer for an ER position out in Kansas City, MO, and I am enthralled with the opportunity (and how quickly the offer rolled in). There's a lot to weigh and consider, however, as I move forward with the credentialing process.... I currently live in Clarksville, TN, as my husband is still active duty Army. He is set to ETS this upcoming March, but is hoping to leave the service earlier (around October), given a new regulation that permits such a move....I am also 20 weeks pregnant and due November 1st. The VA there is aware, and doesn't seem to have any concerns. I've already traveled from TN to KS to do my physical and draw titers. As far as moving ahead of time without my husband--that doesn't intimidate me. BUT! I want to ensure that this is the right move for me and for my family. We are planning on living on the KS side, which means a commute to work--probably close to 45 minutes. I've commuted for work before (65 mi one way), and it eventually wore me down....but, I also wasn't completely happy in my position, either. We haven't begun to discuss pay yet, and I know I have to wait until the board convenes. However, moving from an area with a lower cost-of-living, to an area with a higher cost-of-living, I worry that the pay won't be sufficient enough to make up the difference. I graduate with my BSN on August 9th, and have worked for 2 years in the ED. I want a level II final offer, and was wondering if this was even plausible? The benefits are what is really alluring, especially with my husband's time in service coming to a close, and needing to pick up health insurance again for our family. It's just a big decision to make--the financial commitment to moving us out there, the commute, etc.... Please, someone, ease my mind that this is the right decision. I am having my doubts, which is upsetting, because I was so excited about this position and offer. I have rarely seen open ED positions in the VA, and emergency medicine is my passion and comfort zone. Thanks!

Evening! My husband is PCS'ing to Fort Campbell, KY in November, and the kids and I are heading out to the TN side next weekend to get everything set up for his homecoming. I am having a difficult time getting callbacks for interviews and am a little surprised by the apparent lack of positions out in that area. I am willing to commute to Nashville for my position, as long as it is worth it, financially. I'm coming from a very busy level II trauma in VA, and am surprised that my ED and trauma experience for the past year hasn't caught any employers' attentions. Any insight? Recommendations for places to apply? I have been looking at Jenny Stuart and Gateway as local facilities, but it seems they are only hiring for future positions, and neither are a trauma center. I am getting so discouraged, help!

I agree. I am really disappointed. I would have been okay if I wasn't accepted, but it's the exasperation and anxiety of waiting for almost 7 weeks that is irritating. It gave me a false sense of hope, perhaps? Either way, I am incredibly thankful for the wonderful opportunity I do have. The market in and around Tampa Bay for new nurses is tough, and I had no leads. Tampa General was wonderful! I applied there, and the HR lady was kind enough to call me and explain that they were moving towards magnet status, and were only taking BSNs at the time. I can totally respect that! Congrats to the people who have made it in to ACH's residency program, and best of luck to the candidates pursuing other venues for employment. Hopefully next time they can be more proficient and keeping people aloof.

Friday afternoon, and still haven't received anything, although I have resolved myself to the fact that I was not considered. As for me, I was offered a position as a new grad in an ER/level II trauma facility, but it's in Virginia--near my old duty station. I would have much rather preferred staying in my hometown, and working for ACH--as pediatric critical care was like a dream. I've always desired the NICU. I have been licensed since the first week of June, and stalled a start date in VA specifically to hear from this program. Now I feel like a fool. Lesson learned!

I don't have a BSN, but I was a combat medic in the Army, and tried to write as compelling of a cover letter as possible. I thought I really captured my express interest in working for their facility, and am so disappointed. I feel like a fool for holding out on jobs this long...I wish they would at least issue mass emails so that people (who aren't being considered) don't waste their time. I spoke to someone today who said that interviews have been conducted, and that final decisions are being made--at which point they will issue their decisions. Such a disappointment. I find it irritating (as an ADN grad with an AA, also) that BSNs are given favoritism; no offense, sincerely. Every bachelors degree has 60 hours of gen ed, and 60 hours of speciality. What is the difference between that and someone who has 60 gen ed with an AA, and 60 nursing credits, except what? Upper level theory classes? I would have killed to write an essay in nursing school! End tangent, lol. I am a little sad, but I received a great opportunity elsewhere, and will run with it now. Have you had any luck with positions in the area? Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I hate to cut in here, but did any of the posters who commented this year apply for the August program? I still haven't heard anything, and I am being driven insane by it....the vague answers from HR only exacerbate the feeling, lol. Can someone PM me and let me know if they have started to notify? I have been BIDING time on a great job opportunity, because I want to work here that badly. Someone, ease my mind! I heard that ADNs are always weeded out, for the most part...that's discouraging.

I am sure there are a million threads regarding this topic, but bare with me :) I don't have the time to sift through right now, but will do so when time is on my side! I am starting a position as a new grad in an ER/level II trauma facility in a few weeks. Naturally, I am a conglomerate of emotions--excited, petrified, etc...! I am a total book nerd, and want to bury myself in some good material to refresh my memory and also gain some knowledge before walking on the floor. I have shadowed the department, and seemed to impress them, but I KNOW that there is a TON that I don't know. I am afraid of disappointing the people who believed in me enough to offer me this wonderful opportunity--I think that's a perfectly normal feeling. Can you guys recommend any books to read and take notes on? In your experience, what are some of the most difficult disease processes to differentiate when someone presents to your ER? What are some common medications you find yourself using? When you first started working in the ED, how did you prepare yourself? How was the initial experience? And, cliche as it is, what is your best advice? I appreciate it so much! I am enthralled for what is to come!

First off, there has been some REALLY excellent advice in this thread! OP, don't let this get you down or deter your ambitions to work in the ED. I am also a former combat medic in the Army, and a recent ADN grad in Florida (Post 9-11 GI bill, thank you!). I live in the Tampa Bay region and have had the absolute worst time getting interviews. When I was transitioning to the civilian sector, I thought that I would have no problem getting my foot into the door with my experience from the military. Boy, was I wrong! I couldn't even land an unlicensed CNA position! I was like, are you KIDDING ME?! It is what it is. I focused on school, and was grateful for the opportunity to get paid to continue higher education. When it came time to building my resume, I highlighted my military experience next to my graduate nurse qualifications. I'm humble, but I have to joke that I feel like I sound so much better on paper than I come off in person, haha. That aside, there ARE facilities who appreciate this type of experience! I was prompted by an old NCO (who also became an RN after her service) to apply at a local hospital near my old duty station. Mind you, this is about 1000 miles away. I applied to only ER and ICU, as these were the only two departments that would prompt me to relocate. I didn't think I had a chance in hell. Two days later I received an email requesting a phone interview with their talent recruiter regarding my ICU app. After speaking with her for an hour, she suggested that I would be wonderful for their ED! I literally screamed in excitement when I got off the phone. The next day, another hour-long phone interview with the ED manager. It was blissful :) I was asked to come shadow the department, and traveled up that weekend to do so. I was a nervous wreck on the inside, but I have a stellar poker face compliments of the military (everyone remarks upon my composure, and yet I am just as nervous as any other new grad). It was a fantastic experience! It enticed me even more, as I long for the fast-paced, critical nature of the ED. On my drive home I was contacted again to say that I was being offered a FT position in their ED....it is also a level II trauma facility. I am leaving Florida in only a few weeks to begin! I am over the moon, and the envy of many of my peers right now. My best advice is to look into relocation. Apply to facilities near military bases, as these are more likely to favor and appreciate your experience. Having a BSN is a total bonus, and I am SHOCKED that no one as picked you up yet. You are a gem; believe it. You will prevail! No worries. Best of luck in your endeavors, and many wishes for a rewarding and successful career!

I'm commenting to bump this thread--can anyone offer some insight or experience? Recommendations? Are there any areas you would recommend outside of NN but still within commute distance? Neighborhoods to rent within NN? I am looking for an apartment/townhome, and would ideally like to keep my expenses to under 1000 before utilities. 2 bedroom a must, at least. Sounds weird, but is anyone a family of 3 that can say how much they spend on groceries? Trying to work my budget, lol. Does anyone know of any resources that might be of assistance if you overqualify with income? At this point I'm looking at picking up a second job at a LTC/rehab to supplement my FT job.... Thanks SO much! Can't wait to get back to VA and embark on my career.

I'm commenting to bump this thread--has anyone heard ANYTHING? Denial or phone call? I am getting wary as the time passes....PM me if you don't want to reply. Thanks so much! It would give me some peace of mind!

I recently had a very similar situation. I am a new ADN grad out of Florida, and applied to an ICU and ED position in a hospital in Virginia (old military stomping grounds). I was SHOCKED when I received an email two days later requesting a phone interview. I interviewed with both their talent recruiter and ED manager on the phone, about an hour a piece. They went so well that the ED manager asked if I could come shadow the department (a 14 hour drive, alone, with two kids). I did it. Two days later, a job offer as a FT nurse in an ED/level II trauma facility :) Take the gamble. Call them and ask if accommodations would be made for out-of-state applicants, but they may be assessing your level of commitment to the position. That's how I viewed my opportunity to shadow: they wanted to see if I would commit to moving...which I do so in three weeks :) Best of luck!

You might have to post one more comment to be able to message, it looks like Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I do still have them! Can you PM on here? Give me your number and I will text you pictures :) and, thank you! It flies by, truly. Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

The only way TGH will consider you these days is if you are a BSN grad. Tampa hospitals are not hiring ADN grads without experience, unless you get lucky enough to be plucked up from a graduate nurse program from places like Florida Hospital Tampa. St. joes has a GN program for BSN candidates. It's bad here. Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I can see where you are coming from, but just make sure you make the right decision for you. I wanted to jump into an RN-MSN program, but have since decided to take it each level of education. There are more tracks for ARNPs when it is pursued this way--at least where I am looking to go. Also, don't doubt your ability to impress unit managers. Experience is nice, but not always a must if someone sees something valuable in you. I'm a former medic in the Army, but with no combat experience. I just recently shadowed a very busy ER/level II trauma facility, and was offered a ft position...as a new grad. In another state. I relocate in a few weeks. Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I really appreciated reading this! Sorry to jump in, OP, but I am a new grad and was recently offered a FT spot in a very busy ER/level II trauma facility. I am actually relocating from Florida to Virginia for the job...I'm a bit spontaneous and a thrill seeker. I am nervous, yet excited, for the opportunity to grow and learn! Plus, I feel so blessed to have been afforded the chance as a new grad. Thanks for the words of eadvice! Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I had a wretched experience while in my first semester clinicals in nursing school. I was also a few months pregnant, so the nausea was rather overwhelming... I had an elderly patient who needed to be changed after defecating. She was at least 90. After securing her privacy, I buckled down to the task. The poor woman kept apologizing to me which tugged on my heart strings, so I started making conversation with her whilst down there to alleviate her embarrassment.... No joke, mid-sentence, entrenched in cleaning all that there is to geriatric southern scene, she passed flatus....in my mouth. I quickly turned away, certain I would gag and throw up. I didn't even know it was POSSIBLE for that to occur..but, oh, it can. I somehow managed to collect myself quickly, return to the task, and acted like nothing had happened. I still laugh about it with friends today. Now, I make sure to stay up wind, lol. Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

Hi everyone! I posted in the other thread, but wanted to extend a congratulations here, as well! I graduated this past May from the RN program, and spent my duration on West campus. If you guys have any questions, please feel free to PM me! I also have all of my books still, and seeing as I'm relocating to another state for my new job, I'm happy to sell them to y'all if you're interested. Just let me know! Best of luck in all of your endeavors--and remember, you will get through it Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I just wanted to join my buddy in here and extend a huge congratulations to you all! I remember all of the excitement I felt only two years ago...the time really does fly! I was on West campus for the duration of the program, and was also a single parent. So, if anyone wants to PM me questions, I'd be happy to respond! (since finding the app for this site, I've definitely found it more accommodating to get on and peruse the forums!) Also, I have all of my textbooks still and am relocating to another state for my job :) if any of you are interested, please let me know! Wishing you all the very best in your endeavors :) it is well worth it in the end! Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

Right on. :) Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

What I don't understand is, if you already have a Bachelors degree...why are you spending two years at a community college for an ADN, when you can apply to upper division programs at universities and spend the same amount of time getting a BSN.... Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I'll give you my experience: I enrolled for all prerequisites required for my community college's RN program in Fall 2009; I believe it was five courses total. At the time, my oldest was only 9 months old. After knocking out prereqs in one semester (and getting a 4.0), I registered for all of my corequisites for spring 2010 (besides Micro and Micro lab). Again, 4.0. I had to wait until spring to apply for the RN program, since the deadline for January admission was after the completion of my prerequisites. Soooo, I took the TEAS twice, compiled my application, and submitted everything in May 2010. I was accepted and began my two year program the following August. Literally, two weeks into my first semester, I found out I was pregnant with my second son. I wanted to die! I had no idea if I could even remain in the program; if they would be willing to work around my due date; how I would balance everything, etc... I resigned myself to giving it my all--my due date was May 7th, 2011, mere days after the end of my first year. It certainly wasn't easy, lol. There's a running joke among my friends and I that I slept my way through nursing school--which is true for most lecture days, haha. I copied notes from friends and read and outlined my textbook like a madwoman after my oldest son would go to bed. I was often up until 1/2 in the morning, so it was very tiring whilst baking a baby. Clinicals became more difficult as my ankles and feet swelled in the later weeks of my pregnancy. Thankfully, my uniform always fit :) Had some issues with my BP that turned out to be false alarms, but thus the benefit of being surrounded by medical professionals :) Everyone was very supportive, including the teachers. The little baby growing inside of me became like a part of one big nursing family, and when it neared my due date, I was overwhelmed by the love that was shown to me as people have me gifts and words of support. I'm sure they also loved the baked goods I brought in on lecture days compliments of crazy mid-morning cravings. All in all, I'd do it again--unplanned or planned. I ended up delivering on May 10, 2011--the first day of summer classes (I also completed my AA that summer). It wasn't easy, but I'm the type of person who loves a good challenge...and, in the end, I received the best reward :) Oh, and I am a single parent. I went through all of this alone in the midst of a nasty divorce, where dad opted out of the equation in another state. It can be done! I even breastfed for ten months, bringing my pump to school and clinicals, and nursing while at home. It worked out really well, because when I returned to school Fall 2011, I was in my maternal/child rotation. My boys are now (almost 4) and my youngest just turned 1 in May. It was certainly the most rewarding and validating moment to stand on that stage at graduation and see them in the crowd below. I'd do it all again in a heartbeat. Some may try to discourage you, but only you know your resiliency. I say go for it :) I wish you the very best! Dynamic, dynamic, dynamic...dream big, achieve all things!

I am a new grad, as well, and this was interesting to read...thank you to all of the responses. Naturally, I am petrified of making any decision that places my license at risk. As everyone has said above, my first instinct is to do exactly what you said, OP. Educate, educate, educate...document, document, document. Call MD. CYOA.

This may be a shot in the dark, but I'm hoping someone can give me insight from experience? I recently graduated with an ADN this past May, and received an excellent opportunity at a facility in Newport News. Only downside is that I live in Florida right now, lol. I traveled up the other weekend and shadowed the department, and really, really fell in love with the facility and the staff. Not to mention, again, it's a really, really awesome opportunity that I never dreamed I would receive as a new grad. I am in the Tampa region and it is brutal down here for new graduates, as many of the hospitals are moving towards hiring only BSN nurses. I wish I would have known this three years ago, haha. I believe all things happen for a reason, though, and am planning the pertinents of a huge change and move. There are benefits--I'm former military (medic, actually), and was stationed at Eustis, so I'm familiar with the area. Having lived on base, though, and under military pay, I am completely ignorant of living expenses in the NN area. I am a single mother of two, so I need to factor child are expenses into the mix. The starting pay is actually a little less than what I based at in a facility here, but the shift differential compensates. I'm just nervous that I may not bring enough in to pay all of the bills and have extra money at the end of the month to love comfortably. Naturally, when overtime becomes a possibility, I am all for it, so I'm keeping that in mind. Can someone please share their experience as a new grad in NN? Any areas or complexes I should look into that are affordable (and in a good area)? I'd prefer to stick to the Oyster Point area, but have looked into williamsburg and Yorktown, also. The commute doesn't really phase me, but it seems out of my price range. Is it feasible to stick to a budget of 1200 a month including utilities? So many questions, lol. I am also hoping to find a military spouse willing to watch my children for less than I would pay in a facility, but am willing to pay of needed. Any good daycares someone can recommend? I'm looking to move up the first week of August and am literally starting over. Oh, the anxiety. Thanks so much for taking the time to read and respond!