kayytaa

Hey there, I've been orienting in the ICU since late September. For the First month- they had us in classroom and on ECCO. Now I am nearing the end of my floor orientation (429 hrs ?) and feeling the butterflies and nervousness of facing an assignment on my own. I've found the last few weeks especially I have been anxious, only getting 2-3 hrs of sleep before my first shift of the week. I'm not afraid to ask questions, but I haven't exactly developed a thick skin yet with taking criticism or snarkiness from doctors or other nurses. I wish my BSN program incorporated more real life experiences into the classes. I know it will take a while to feel more at ease, but I hate the anxiety. How has your transition been?

Each pair of danskos will feel a little different. I initially went to The Walking Company to try a few different sizes/styles. What I learned is that Danskos are manufactured at 3 different factories. Some pairs will feel awesome, others not so good. Since spending $130 is a pretty big commitment, I recommend trying to find the "perfect" pair for your foot. When you find it you will discover how comfy they can actually be. :)

I know personally that IU Health University Hospital offers their patient care interns an opportunity to jump right into the OR as new grads. I would try to start networking and maybe snatch up a student position in the OR in order to secure a spot. :)

Yes, All of IU Health has removed the evening shift differential. As far as I know there are no plans to return it. IU Health has also implemented a policy where all ASN/diploma nurses must earn their BSN within the next 5 years.

I am a PCI at IU hospital in one of their ICUs. My base rate is $12 plus 2-4 more for weekends and nights. I have had a wonderful experience and make my own schedule. They ask that you work 12 hours every month I believe. If you do a good job they are more than willing to hire you on most units based on availability. Let me know if you have any more questions!

I would also try and network and find opportunities to shadow both an NP and a PA to see the differences. Sometimes things look appealing on paper and then you realize that an advanced nursing degree would be more up your alley. :) you are definitely being proactive though. Good luck!

New member here. OP is obviously trying to stir up some drama so I won't even comment on that. I'm a little disheartened by the comments about students, just as I would be about blanket statements about nurses. This is ONE student. Perhaps generalizing is where more drama and feelings get hurt.

Personally, I would talk to your instructor and see if you can get some contact information for the ICU that you would've been observing at. Many ICUs are more than happy to let you shadow an RN for a day. Although it won't be part of clinical hours shadowing is one of the best opportunities for ruling out what you would like to do for your preceptor-ship.