Jo West

I am a student nurse and just finished a preceptor rotation where I had opportunity to be in the ER with a RN preceptor. There were patients who arrived there with various complaints that were termed "frequent flyers." The ER personel had orders not to give narcodics to those thought to be misusing drugs. I witnessed some, one patient in particular, that left furious stating that she was going to another ER in the region. The PA had the staff and himself call ERs in the area to make aware of this patient's order not to receive narcodics. I felt bad for this patient. I didn't know what to do for the patient. I asked some nurses there, and didn't get any specific answers. Do ERs normally have literature for these patients to read to seek help or counseling, or are any specific groups (like the police) alerted? Any ideas on how these situations are handled?

I am a RN student that will be graduating this year with an ADN. I am wanting to pursue Certified Nurse Midwifery. I know in the state I live, I will have to have a Master degree to practice. It would be more ideal for me to continue my education for both Masters and my Midwifery certification online. I have had a couple of people tell me not to do the midwifery online. My babies were all born "caught" by a midwife and I have attended other births attended by midwives, so I have a "feel" for this area. However, I need ideas, suggestions, and guidance as to how to go about doing this endeavor of getting licensed degrees. I plan to check with the State Board of Nursing, for a start, but would appreciate any feedback from anyone, especially on whether or not to do it online and how I should do it...get my masters first? work on them both together? and schools for both masters and midwifery programs-online and off. What are the pros and cons with these online degrees? To throw another wrench in, I plan to work, at least part time or PRN, as I do pursue this degree, (and I have children at home as well), so I may need ideas on time management for this degree as well. Thank you for your input.