gary_rn

Shingles typically follows a nerve path. If on the abdomen it usually goes from the mid abdomen and often times travels around to the mid lower back region. if it is only in an abdominal fold and if it especially did not or does not have any vesicles then I doubt it is shingles. The vesicles appear early in the disease process then dry up. Shingles is also usually very painful.

Cindy, If you have a computer I would suggest looking up addresses and phone numbers for facilities in the area(s) of Florida where you want to live. Ask for mailings to include applications and facility information. For example St. Petersburg Hospital will mail a complete folder of information with pictures. The internet is as already suggested a very good and instant source of information. I would also call Hospitals, Nursing Homes, etc and be direct. Ask what their needs are, do they hire graduate RNs, pay scale, shifts available, etc etc. Most places will give you quick up to date information. Beware of the Florida pay scale though. Quite a bit lower than up North. Hey, I'll pay your gas down if you throw me in your trunk :chuckle !!! Good luck! Gary