NJMEDguy48

Want a great job.. Very Serious .. Strong suggestions... Saint barnabas health care system and meridian Health In central NJ They are huge hospital systems in NJ HUGE. Very big in central new jersey (the best places to live) Super affordable in Ocean County little bit more pricey in Monmouth county. They are always hiring and they have there hands in all rn specialties . They are very diverse and offer great salaries, great bens, great perks :) awesome facilities that are beautiful and always upgrading. They have best of Both worlds Big money clients in northern facilities and large senior population in Ocean counties . Both hospital corporations are buying and merging all the local hospitals. Huge potential here for all nurses all specialties. Get your feet in the doors here as they are hiring and are planning for huge growth in health care.

Great info ELK.... Question I have. Seems to me not only do you as an educator provide reasons at your level why there are educating issues (hence nursing employment issues real or perceived). Many other persons at all different levels of health care state similar concerns. Let's be honest we are getting closer to socialized medicine (if we are not there already). I as a previous business owner say we are in a Global economy where everything is being shared. Are there countries that "train" Nurses cheaper and more efficiently than America?... In my book RNing is a vocation just like Electrician... Somehow there needs to be a more efficient way to train Nurses. If I was a hospital and competing for the almighty dollar as president of the corporation would I not want that for my shareholders? Efficiency at all levels to compete. (YES I know we are talking about human patients) So let's say more efficeint and better service providers. After all at the lowest level that is what the nurse and the facility you work for is providing a "service". The health care facililities spend millions on advertising. It is Krazy... Bill Boards of Robotics, Pictures/Banners of JHACO awards. Hospitals that are built to be museums as apposed to the efficient Venues they should be. Why? To coerce the patient to come to there facility as apposed to going to one in another town that might offer the same or better service at a cheaper more affordable cost that would be better for all taxpayers of america...... Here in Central NJ we have 2 systems that are growing by leaps and bounds in the number of facilities they are taking over by "mergeing" and "partnering" with the individual hospitals' Hence increasing the number of consumers um no patients they are seeing and billing. They will in the name of $ merge services. To become more efficeint. I am almost depressing myself as I am making choices in my life to enter this field of Health care. But to be honest I not only want to provide a "Touch" of hope for one, I really would like to provide the best quality of care in the most efficient manner for a better america and world...... Many facets of american health care I think need fixing And I think what has happened to many of our manufacturing and servicing companies are the precursor of what is going to and in fact is happening to health care. In the name of the almighty dollar we shall need to be prepared and embrace the technology and I think we have just tipped the iceberg to a changed American health care system. OK I am tired right now back to reading but my simple point is ... The medical system is a service business one that at this moment pays very well. For many reasons it is the target as one of the greatest jobs in the world (It may be as I have been privy to parts of the inside of it and the many rewards inc Wages, bens, perks, security and emotional it offers are awesome) More than any other time in history I believe qualified persons are going to be competing for those rewards to include female, male, domestic and foriegn of all ages after all we are now in a global society.... Oh and by the way as our ability to pay for all the seniors retiring and about to retire honestly we are not at this stage of our economic position as a country not able to afford to service them as we do now without either providing them less service or becoming more efficient in providing great health care. or guess what the result might be? I do not want to think about that...

Awesome Thanks.... Finally was able to talk to 2 human resource persons of 2 of NJ largest hospital systems. Yes they have nursing jobs! But few mostly from retirement. They have tons of qualified nurses though applying for the jobs. They finally can pick and choose. They are no longer offering bonusses and lowered the starting salary for a new position for the first time since she has been in HR (over 15). Her statement to me was If you had a business and wanted to lower one of the highest costs of operation LABOR would you not want to create an environment of perceived shortage to get the most applicants to help reign the costs..... Not sure it is that simple BUT I really believe that still good laborious jobs are getting harder to come by and more students will apply for them. Before I read the articles u suggest. I think the many ways we are becoming educated and share information globally will absolutely have an effect on health care and all careers in general Look at how we learn today off site campuses, on line, private votech settings.

ok nursel56, I enjoy your level headed response. A few more questions if I may. 25 years ago were there as many specialized techs as there are today that seem to fill some of the roles of nurses at a cheeper rate maybe because they do not have to be as well rounded? 1 yr tech school 15k vs 4yrs BSN med school at 50k. I am going to be careful as I can speak only for central NJ. There are tech schools everywhere (Just like computer schools of the 80-90's ) The truth is they are owned and operated by the same people! Yes really look at the corporations that own them. P & L is what it is about and they are making money! Amazing. You say hundreds are applying for 1 job in your area I wish we had a human resource person from each state on here to tell us the truth. How come schools here in NJ have years waiting lists to get into RN programs for nursing. They say lack of teachers. I am wondering about that. If they paid the professors the same rate or more as a nurse with all the students trying to fill the class these institutions and boards of directors (AH HA POLITICAL HACKS) that run them could still make money. This still perplexes me. At an affordable community college here in NJ you can get your RN. in central NJ very affordably. (compared to 4 yr college.) The hitch...... They (2 yr community college) make you take all pre reqs before you can apply for program. I just read on a current post here in all nurses they have over 1100 persons whom met all those pre req stipulations for 90 yes 90 spots at my county college(Ocean county). How much did the college make on all those 1010 that did not get into the nursing school? Will they go for other fields that offer little hope of growth and prospect in the new america? What other jobs can the new america offer? What other fields? I do not know... I have more to say and ask but I just wonder your thoughts, as an experienced health care professional

I wonder why you said "not so anymore" Has there not been bad economies before? Are there other mitigating factors that make an experienced nurse like you to say that? I think there are many reasons why I agree with you But if you might elaborate..........

Good Day All I have been trying to find posts for Brookdale's Respiratory Therapist program anyone run across them? Searched many but no recent posts. Thanks

Coach J Are you at all a visitor to All nurses anymore? I do have some questions for you.

read all the posts....... I have the opportunity to either go for RT or LPN degree at local schools at an "almost free" cost... RT 3 yrs Lpn 1.... RN out of the question as waiting list after Pre Reqs are done is a maybe 2 years and list is so long and politics involved no chance. I am 48 M and in great health and I am going to live to be a 110 and work till 105 (NEVER KNOW). I really do not want to be confined to hospital and actually would like to travel... Suggestions thought ideas....... yes the 52k to 40k wage difference is on my mind.

Nursing Shortage 2010.... I am very interested in facts re: Health care today and the Future! I find it very interesting and somewhat confusing. Public LPN classes at Votech schools app $7,000.00 some private schools $20,000.00. The private schools get funding from the government and piece of loans etc. Who is running these schools? Can someone in NJ or other state reach out to me if you are running accross the same thing. Cost apparently has little to do with passing N-Clex as $7000.00 schools in multiple counties around me have nearly 100% passing success..... Lastly we have many same county community colleges in NJ that offer RN classes at a great tuition rate but the waits are lengthy which may lead to favoritism...... UH OH They tout that 50% that start drop/fail out and that assures cream of the crop HMMM I wonder maybe that system needs fixing. Before you can even be considered for the class you need to have your pre reqs completed.... and still that rate of failure/drop out why? Just looking for real stats and facts.. lastly, What about the Techs that are out there. where are they getting there education, from whom etc. Did you ever follow the student loan path Back to the big banks and politicians yikes! I ask is there a glut or shortage and whom really is in control of it. Let's keep going on this as there are to many current nurses out of work and new nurses that need to be prepared...

No need for sorry. I am just frustrated as a U.S. tax payer, future health care provider, health care patient at times, student, father and other. I know statistics sometimes don't reveal all the truths or can have many variables usually swayed by the authors to fit there needs and wants. I want every qualified student nurse to have the opportunity to persue there career and passion. I KNOW first hand how difficult the profession is (But it has many rewards MANY) and I would like nothing but the best for the student, employer and of course the patient. Unfortunately, I am for managed & fair health care but the politicians and administrators of health care facilities are ohhhhh sooooo close to them have me very concerned. Thank you and please I welcome your comments....

I really appreciate your response. I am going to be careful as Foreign nurses are NOT the only reason for the glut. ALL American taxpayers are footing some of the bills for all our students in school to get there medical degrees this also includes foreign nurses that come as LPNS etc and further there education here. Whether it be a tax break , grants, EOF funds, special forgiveness or break on Student Loans or governmeant backed loans (IF u r a nurse and want to find out some schooling benefits check out posts on ALL NURSES they are out there)as posted by nurses already taking advantage of them. Even if minut. I personally do not want that money to go to waste. No foriegn nurses until all U.S. graduated and qualified nurses have jobs. SIMPLE we have the schools, public and private and more than qualified students if we didn't why the Huge waiting lists! I can only speak of NJ It is amazing the number of foreign nurses at all levels! I am not saying at all to get rid of them no way... There here they stay. But times have changed... How can we have managed health care in America with out of control or misguided spending on education for such. Unless we need global health care (which I might not be against) and if that is the idea should america pay for all the needs on that as well. We pay for world security through our armed forces should we do the same for healthcare? Thanks for your reply and it seems you are really enjoying yourself in Canada ..

Great response and much appreciated.... So many variables as to why the "Glut" ... I saw your stated statistic re 40% of the current nurses will retire by 2020... Can I get the source of that info as I have been trying to get such Stats. My first question to that statistic is what kind of RN's will retire and by what type of qualified persons can/will they be replaced by? Going to be careful but robots replaced manufacturing personel. Health care is changing, whom is going to tell no guide us what we should be spending our time and money on to prepare for this change and future needs of the public. Thanks again for the post

Great Posts Here. From a little different perspective if I may. I am the spouse of a nursing (RN) student of only 8 years ago (She is a RN now). Back then Yes there were jobs everywhere (not just New Jersey) with huge sign on bonuses to boot. At that time there were not as many schools churning out new students to meet the need at the time and she was able to use her family conections to get into a program that was full to over flowing. However, I do believe many changes during that time and even now have and are taking place in the Med field that has effected Nurses' (RN's and LPN's) in particular. First the economy, it stinks. I used to see tons of plastic surgery centers on LI and NJ parking lots full and what they charged for boobs, tummy tucks and lipo were astronomical *yes my spouse had them all done* (truth but a great story for another day) Today these places are having "sales", offering discounts and such. Because of the economy elective surgeries are hurting that is also effecting the nurse. Second the Tech positions- Surgery Tech and all the other lower paying shorter schooled Techs. They are replacing RN's LPN's(Not judging there competency just talking about there role). Third- Inovation.. Do we have to keep people in hospitals like we did before or is there just a greater speed of recovery. Fourth-Today many institutions are churning out nurses at a larger number than ever before. Fifth- The government is soliciting foriegn nurses EVEN TODAY. (check out recent yahoo/google articles re this fact where is OBAMA Today ASIA). They will work cheaper and w/out complaining and without threat of unionizing and with all the foriegn Doctors there is less cultural differences. Sixth- the goverment again.. Politics... Huge!!! Health care is power... Dems and Reps. For them if they tell there constituents (Older America) we need cheaper labor or you may not get the health care you need because we have no money..... any means to get cheaper labor it is. Funny spouse received Rn (2yr ASSOC at first). She had only psyche nursing exp(no ER no Med Surg) and was able to get a JOB in "prestigous" PACU unit (days only, few week ends chilling with Dr's). Due to name and family connections surely not surgery or recovery experience as she had none(other than school). There are many reasons I am afraid of Health care today. I have seen the inside (been to the parties, events and such) and seen these "professional" RN MD ADMINS people in there life outside these institutions as well It is ALL about MONEY! so be prepared "nightingales" you are in or the shock of your life. KISS BUTT I repeat KISS BUTT and watch your back and you might suceed... or no wait maybe get a job! Do not think what happened to car companies can't happen to health care It is called the world economy and GLOBALIZATION. AGAIN NOT SURE IF IT IS A BAD OR GOOD THING BUT IN REALITY HEALTH CARE IS BIG BUSINESS SO BE PREPARED NOT NAIVE

Thanks for the reply. When you say pay is a little better you mean that of an RN to RT Correct? I have great legs, lots of ladders in my past so keeping on my feet should be easy. Just have to get over age thing........Lastly do you have any suggestions where I might find the current wage scale and outlook for RT's in NJ

Donna uh I mean NerdfrNJ yes I know..... you are 41...............It's all inside! Nite and good luck friday......no skill that is!

Donna, What R U Kidding Me ! 39:D and tired! No way... study study study. I bet you did great on PA midterm. After you test well on Fridays Mid Term A&P send me a "It was EASY" quick note. I have no reason to even remotely think you ain't gonna ace it !!! Oh get some fresh fruit and snack while studying. Tea OK no Coffee:eek: I have the possibility to get into Respiratory Therapist class..... 3 yrs though 1yr pre reqs OCC then 2 in Brookdale. I really wanted to do it 4 yrs ago but was vetoed by then in power. Now that X comander in Chief has been impeached (hehe) I just have to get the reasons. sorry Excuses out of my head and way....... Ray

Good afternoon, I am a male 48. I have the opportunity to go to either LPN (11 month) school or RT school 3 years....... Re inventing myself. I had been married to and :went to school: with my X while she went for her RN and Bsn (partial stay at home dad, contractor, tutor and husband)... I also had associations with many Dr.s, Nurses and administrators. That said I have heard many stories regarding many health positions and I realy think my calling is RT. My only concern is my age. I am 48 and will need to reinvent myself as I was a former contractor. Can you tell me what the physical requirements might be. I do understand it is physical but I was in heavy dirty and very gruff construction. I have talked to many RT's but I cannot find any over 50 ones. Have you had any contact with mature RT's............ Your thoughts.............

Ashley, May I ask which county Voc you attend? The m/f ratio? total number of students in your class? Lastly, was the role of the LPN discussed in the "new health care" reforms. I am getting a little concerned about the hospitals not using the LPN's and future job prospects. In community med center in TR LPNs leaving (pushed out?) or going to "Therapist" role Respiratory etc... Nursing assistants are being used in the hospital more i think because of less pay.... Your thoughts Thanks

Well I am done with this forum.... I read a ton of (not all) the other posts here. I have even received calls from friends whom saw my responses and thoughts. I am not 100% convinced either way about unions. I will say that Nurses have it tough and need to support each other with or without a Union. I also believe that CNAS LPNS RNS BSNs MSNS APNS ESPNS

Good Day Gina.. Did you decide to stick with LPN career? Have you decided on school? If so where?

OMGoodness.... Why were you "released" without getting to specific? Were You a RN at the time?

Hello, I love this topic ! Friend of mine whom read this post and called me to remind me... (He hates Unions, His wife Luvs them) He wanted to remind me about two very interesting situations going on right now in our New Economy.... How come public tax breaks (construction and business loans are going) to Surgery Centers that treat only insured patients (across the street from hospital that has to treat all) and Charter schools are being constructed (right across from public schools that educate all)... What are the salaries being paid to the front line persons and what are paid to the "owners/administrators" in relation and percentage to each other! There are many "Techs" in each. I am curious as I do not know the figure... How many actual MED Surge RN's do they hire and have on staff full time w/full Bens at surgery centers? Is every employee offered the same Ben's and ret packages in the Centers as Hospital. Should they be? How many Surg centers pay the p/t nurse really good salaries because they already have jobs and ben's at Public hospitals at the publics expense (that we contribute to as tax payers as they receive federal/state tax dollars to "operate"). Wowwww i still do not know Would I want to be Union or Not...... Yes I want to nurse... But I want to be compensated fairly...... I deserve that.

Great points in this post. I guess. I am not so sure about the statement of the Lazy nurse, Whether union or not if a nurse is not doing there job or harming a patient Document! and put forth to the proper persons and I would hope it will be addressed equally and fairly as the hospital willl have esq firm so the individual being accused should as well. Are ALL union nurses lazy? . As far as DEMS VS REP Come to central NJ and you will see a large number of Admins that are REP and DEMS it is a $ elitist thing more than anything else. Look at the Admins Real salary see what they are all about "BUSINESS" ... Look at the Admins salary in the Union controlled Education system. Do you think it is just the Teachers/Nurses fault. Look at the ADMINS and all the ancillary staff that they surround themselves with. Are they essential!.....Whom is paying for them.... Teachers & Nurses that are titled MA/BS/PN Should they be paid the most? I am not so sure maybe it should be part of the pay scale system though. But the only thing PLEASE there are poor nurses that become very educated just cauze the letters = greater pay. I know some of them and I would not want them touching me or educating my kid.....Oh and by the way look at the public higher education thing as well Look at all the Board members there..... ESQ, POL and OLD DR'S Could they be part of the "BOYZ/GRLZ CLUB". How come when they say shortage they are not getting more educators. Maybe because they do not want more nurses as it could possibly hurt there control and there personal bottom line. Again in central NJ a couple years ago Huge hospital of a huge system got snagged extorted millions and millions of big money through medicaid/medicare and now the Administrator of the same "Thriving " (yeah right) school system (Mr Ritacco) Funny same TOWN! is being a accused for his possible role in theft of millions. Do you think a front line teacher can do that. NO neither can a front line Nurse. As far as your point of CNA pres making $200,000 may I ask the union he/she heads? The state and what if any changes they made for the CNA plus or neg? Have they made health care better for the patient? Please respond as I really do want to be better educated regarding this stuff.......... Honestly!

Ok NURSES now for the kicker...And I will only talk about NJ. Look around you at the Doctors and Administrators. They are not starving OLD or NEW. Is it a job I would want probaly not. But I have seen many of them from the inside Inside there homes, family and financials. They work hard and make good money, They also invest. whether it be in real estate - surgery centers - homeopathic med factories, homes for the elders or even homes for those in step programs and other businesses. I have seen it all. You nurses work just as hard as them YOU DO! dare I say harder. You will never see the big $ they do after they finish the residency. Starting a union will bring things to a more level playing field and garner respect TO ALL equally. Yes Doctors are getting better some are still ice agish still. But what about the administrators (lawyers, old doctors, politicians) they are NOW and WILL be in your future. Do not trust them. It is all about $ and power. Yep I know plenty of nurses that cow down to them and are given many more oppportunities than other deserved nurses because of the "I know this person" mentality and it is going to get worse! Much. wait till the new health care kicks in...... Oh and BTW the admins of the hospital (Do not think they have not put other businesses they own or partnered with and positioned themselves to take what advantages there may be in the new health care) so wake up! Be a nurse for the right reasons. Yes because you care....But you and your family do not deserve to be treated as non equals as you may be! Lastly, Hang out at the lunch room around the surgery areas (doc,s making the big dough! pay attention to business opps floating out there. Be careful some nurses have lost there shirt. But be aware there are opps for you and your family...... I have chatted a lot about business here YUKKK.... Please be a nurse for the right reason But do not fool yourself Life is a business it is 2010 start treating yourself like a CEO (you do not have to be a Bernie Madoff ) and you will create opportunities that you never thought were possible.

WOWWW I could not have asked anyone better to segway into why If I was a nurse I would want to be in a union. I used to work for UPS when I was 18p/t thought the union dues were alot then too... Should have stayed with them.. I just met a co worker after 30 years.True story I used to work with him in Wall twp NJ (Dun Roamin rd before they moved to new facility in eatontown). He is only 48 as well... just retired a millionaire between stock cash out and retirement package benfs etc. (oh yeah they try to push out older employees for a fresh pair of cheaper legs but the union always stuck up for him. cauze he didn't do anything wrong but got a litttle older) Besides owning own home and 2nd kid in college. He started a p/t bussiness 8 years ago that is thriving today as well..Home inspection co. He grosses 4500 a week (spouse is his sec) RIGHT NOW in a bad economy (5 days tue sat 8-5)....but he said to me could not have done it with out a union because when things got tight he knew he had a job........."Was it easy" I asked.. I knew it wasn't I remember sweating in the trucks. "Hell No" he said. But it is a lot easier now....... Me, I am 48 battered and very bruised many sucesses in life many failures I could have had the same successes and probably eliminated many of the failures.........if I was in the union.... I never was lazy and I do not know many nurses that are. Just my opinion from both sides