Shasta312

How did the interview go? What do you think your chances are? Good Luck.

I am interested in the Burn Unit from a medical perspective. I am fascinated by Blood, Needles and Wounds. However, I do not know if I have what it takes. I begin nursing school in January 2013 and hold my CNA and would like to gain exposure to it. Loyola Medical Center in Chicago (where I live) has an esteemed Burn Unit but I was under the impression that they do not allow anyone to shadow its nurses, unlike other units. I have shadowed Cardiac Nurses at Northwestern and would welcome the opportunity. I feel that each nurse has his/her calling and we and patients are lucky for the diverse interest. Thanks for the benefit of your experience.

@gcat626RN - Mmmm. Maybe a teaching career in your future? There is a such a dearth of good nursing instructors. You can begin by being the nurse educator for your floor!

NURSES can place PICC lines? I thought it was only done in Interventional Radiology by docs or PAs. I am a student and am only familiar with their placement because my mother had one inserted. However, she was at a large academic medical center. This is an interesting thread.

Never expected to hear about Vet Tech experience! The dog stories are hilarious and reminds me of my beagle and yes, the anal glands. AND the time she ate her own poo and projectile vomited all over the bed. Comforter went into the dumpster. Dog stayed. Her personality saved her life many times. Seems that while the animal smells are horrendous, the pooches don't care about your reactions. Thought I was completely tough. As a student CNA, I volunteered to change an ostomy bag for the staff. My gag reflexes totally kicked in and my eyes started watering. It was all I could do to make it to the bathroom so the patient wouldn't see me. I even had a few barf reflexes in the bathroom. I felt awful for the patient and realized I shouldn't be overconfident. Good post about a realistic topic.

@CDunning GREAT info! Thanks and nothing but success to you!

@CDunning, Thank you your honest reply. I was not a focused undergrad either, but then is any 18-year-old? Did you take the GRE? I am taking it in November and am dreading it more than Organic Chemistry. I suspect you'll make a spectacular nurse because you really had to work for it and most likely wanted it more than most. Have a good weekend and enjoy your time at Rush. - Shasta

CONGRATULATIONS TO THOSE ACCEPTED! I am sure you are all over the moon, as you should be. I am finishing pre-preqs and plan to apply in February. Could I trouble you to share your background, any advice and insight? Cheers to You!

SUPERB post. Much of this site provides a release valve for burned out and over-worked nurses, which seems to serve them but leaves prospective nurses discouraged and questioning. @MICUBSN - This was a clear, concrete post based on real-life personal experience that balances reality with optimism. I am pursing my CNA while completing my pre-reqs and hope to work as a CNA/PCT to gain clinical time in a health care setting. I will keep your advice in mind as I apply for those positions and as I plan for my career as an RN. Your patients and the nursing field are lucky to have you. I hope you will be a frequent contributor to the site.