igvcare

When I first obtained my LPN, I wasn't able to find any openings, so I took an Agency Job. I had never had any experience or orientation anywhere besides clinicals. I gotta tell you...bath of fire and all...It was a valuable year I spent. I learned to organize, gather information quickly and develop my style. I actually went to work at the first shift I ever had worked, after I finished my stint as agency. We got paid about three more dollars an hour than LTC nurses at that time, and I've been told it is much better now, since I am an RN. With the experience you have in acute care, I think you would enjoy the changes a bit. I worked hospital, LTC, Home health and at a children's home...a wide variety. Its certainly worth a looksee!

I was raised in Southern California...transplanted here 22 years ago. I live in Spokane, Wa. Eastern Washington. We have Four hospitals here, two level 3 trauma. Starting wages at the hospitals are app. 21.00 an hour for RN and around 17.00 in LTC. Try looking at the local Newspaper, Spokesman-Review.com for classifieds. Over all beautiful here. I thought it was a great place to raise my child. Lots of sports. He was involved in Ice Hockey. Several Colleges in the area. Definately less expensive..again look in the classifieds. It is affordable for the most part. I gotta tell you, tho...It is definately a nice, slow lifestyle, lol. Anything I can help you with, let me know!

I, too, have been in two situations over my career where I was placed in a position for which administration held all the cards. I admire the courage of any of us who can speak up for the rights of our patients over protocol at times. When I started nursing with that bright "deer in the headlights" look so many newbies have, I had no idea that nursing was part of a business world. I went into nursing because my training and my talents would help and benifit the patients I would ultamately have. That love is there, but sometimes a bit tarnished. Accuity is continuing to rise, ratios are not always adjusted, and at times the ancilliary help is not there. I, too, have raised a wave and found myself out. And I would do it again. Kudos!!!!

Gadget applehead

I love the 1:1 I get with the families. Its an honor to have their loved one in my care. I also love to teach student nurses. They are so eager, so willing and sometimes bring a laugh when all seems lost mid shift. Teaching students for me is not an annoyance, as I find some of my co workers are not as enthralled...It is a joy to see the light bulb, or to let them practice in front of someone less intimadating than their teacher!