namorce

I too am new to general surgical. I have worked in a number of other specialties , most recently 4 years in acute rehab. I want to stick it out however and transfer to a critical care unit in 1 year. However, even with all my experience I feel like a novice all over again. There are procedures that I ahve never heard of before. Any suggestions on resources that might help me through the next year. I would welcome all ideas and suggestions. Thanks a bunch, evelyn:mad:

You are absolutely right. I work in a free standing rehabilitation facility and I face this every day. The therapists are so concerned to meet their scheduled " units " that the acutual medical condition of the pt is ignored. I am happy you stood your ground on this one. When this happens to me, I often get a order for either no therapy this day or an order for bedside therapy if pt can tolerate. This often satisifes all parties involved and the pt is able to rest up :)

I am just about the finish my first 2 courses at Jacksonville , am down to my last 2 weeks. I am very happy to see so many of us going back to contiual are education. Just be prepared for alot of reading, case studies,tests and brush up on your APA format for the courses and you'll do fine GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU:monkeydance: Evelyn

i was an lpn for a year as i was completing my rn and yes, lpns are "real nurses". i worked just as hard and had just as many responsibilities as lpn as i do now as rn. plus , some of the best nurses i have worked with have been lpns. i am grateful for the experience as a lpn . i also hope that this doesn't start off another rn vs lpn thread. we need to work together for the respect that we all deserve. good luck!! eroman:)

i am sorry to hear the news but what helped me with studying was not only saunders but i also went to a website call medspublishing. it is an interactive education website. i had to use it for school. they have a program that you can purchase for about $65.00 and is good for 60 days. this program allows you to take tests online with immediate answers and feedback. not only did i learn some things but it also helped prepare me for the kinds of questions that would be on the test. it really helped me with my critical thinking skills. i passed the first time with only 75 questions and truely believed it was because i incoporated the medspub into my studies. if you decide to try it let me know what you think. i think it is one of the most helpful study/websites out there. good luck !!!! eroman:p

I had the fortunate experience to go to a nursing school that allowed and even encouraged the students to , after the 1st year, apply to graduate with their vocational certificate in practical nursing, while going on to achieve their RN degree. This allowed us the practice while continuing with school. I took advantage of this opportunity and am very thankful for it. I t allowed me to continue to make a living while learning on the job. I found that the experience I achieved made me a better RN at the end, because I was exposed to many things while working as a LPN . I was still scared at my first job as a RN , but I was competent and confident as well. The opportunity to work in a nursing role while going to school is a great one. I hope you find your experience as gratifying as well. Good luck !!!!