ArleneD

I work on an ortho floor and do a lot of patient transfers. I wouldn't wear a cap because it would be too hard to keep it propped on my head, and my graduation pin would simply injure my patients. Back in the good 'ole days when we had enough CNAs that was a good idea, but not in the real world today.

WriteStuff, Been there - done that! Essarge was right when he/she?? said these signs and symptoms are present in every career. Once you get to the point of experiencing these symptoms, it's very hard to come back to a normal life with family and friends (and people in general). We must allow ourselves to be pampered and not feel that it's our lot in life to take care of everyone else all the time. Our career shouldn't engulf us. It should be a small part of the many things in life that make us happy. Now, let's see if I can actually heed this advice after I graduate. :) God bless, Arlene

JenKatt and Tim, Thanks so much for the information. Although I haven't seen any improvement, I'm still hopeful. I'm not as tired as I was a couple of days ago, and my ear pain is gone. My husband insists that I stay in bed, but it's so hard! We "caregiver types" aren't the ones who can easily let others help. Thanks again! Arlene

I think we all need to lighten up and see a little humor in everything rather than beating each other up so much. If we need to correct one of our colleagues on a post, can't we do it tactfully? Come on, you guys - life's too short to be so negative!

Hi, everyone! Last Tuesday I had what I thought was an insect bite just inside my ear. On Wednesday paralysis started on the right side of my face. Thursday morning it was worse, so I went to the ER where the doc diagnosed Bell's Palsy or Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome. I was very fortunate to see a neurologist within hours, and he confirmed RHS. My treatment is Prednisone and acyclovir. I've searched every web site possible but couldn't find very much info. Can anyone give me any insight as to when I can expect to see recovery begin? It's been 3 days ( I know that's not long,) and there has been no improvement in facial function. My family is very supportive, but I'm beginning to get a little depressed. Good news or bad from you is okay. I just need some answers. Throw them at me...I can take it. Thanks for your help, Arlene

You did all that and couldn't take cateract surgery? Go figure! This venture should be interesting to say the least. Best wishes on your BSN, USA987.

These responses are just the shot in the arm - LOL - that I was hoping to get. I watched the trauma show on t.v. last night filmed at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. I tried to imagine myself at the gurney with everyone just to see if I would go eeewwww! I know it sounds stupid, but I think I really want to do this. I've read all the things Nursedude and other veterans have written, but I'm still thinking of going for it. Thanks for your comments everyone!

I have to make a final decision about taking classes toward an ADN (classes start in January.) When it comes to needles, blood, and trauma situations, I'm very apprehensive. Is this normal for someone who wants to make nursing a career? I've read the advise about getting a CNA to test the waters before going to nursing school, but I don't think this will give me the actual hands-on training I need to get over this uneasiness. Also, if I wait any longer, it'll be another year before the next nursing program starts at the local universities. I was a Candystriper many years ago (took temps, bp, helped set casts, even carried a few bed pans) and thoroughly enjoyed it. I've kicked the idea around for a number of years, and it's either now or never (I'm 42!) I desparately need some advice - positive and negative. Am I just dreaming, or do other pre-nursing students go through this uncertainty?