Cafe

We have to work 3 holidays a year alternating Thanksgiving and Christmas. Weekenders do not unless it is their weekend, makes sense, they were hired for weekends only. Per diem is starting and they will have to work a holiday (will have to see how long it takes to get nurses into the program with shortage and how many regular staff we lose into the program). We will be offered a bonus if we work a 4th holiday and higher call pay for holidays.

We always draw blood off the PICC line. That is one of the advantages for your patient. Check your actual policy and educate your doctors with proof of policy. Just because they say no, doesn't mean that are right!!! Be the advocate for your patient!!!

A student should never be paired with an agency nurse as they are learning and adapting to each hospital's policies also. Problem begins with the instructor and unit you were assigned to. Second, I am precepting for the first time on the new unit I am on. I have had experience as a preceptor before but am on a more intense unit now. There were some good reminders for me to remember to help the new GN I am working with and utilizing the whole staff in learning experiences is a good way for them to get accepted and adapted to the rest of the staff, by way of assistance and learning from others, at the same time you are orienting them to the unit. The one thing you have to always remember, is that through those "CNA" tasks, you have time to assess and pick up on problems with your patient. They sometimes talk with you and clue you in to more things going on as a whole. AND.... just because you become an "RN", doesn't mean you won't do any CNA cares! HA! You will do plenty- remember the shortage also includes CNAs and the more critical the unit the more you do all your own patient care!!! But- I remember being a student nurse and wanting to learn all those skills so I wouldn't be clueless. You will continue to get plenty of opportunities- We all continue to learn!

Can you tell me exactly where you got your info from. I would like to post or make other nurses aware of these facts. We will be working towards a new contract in March. From talking to our union rep, of course wages will be an issue and they feel the Hospital CEO will pushing that with the current employment problems in the general public, that the general public will not support salary increases. Therefore, they feel they will have an edge to force us to accept. So, we need to educate fellow nurses so that they can educate relatives, friends and let the word spread. This is only one of the issues we will be working on but all the info to help our cause ond oppresion is appreciated.

I am considering on moving to Florida in a couple years, when my last child leaves the nest. I would appreciate some input from you Florida nurses on best places to live and work. So, what is the pay down there and where are some ok hospitals etc to work at? I am an IMCU nurse and have enjoyed checking out this site, good place to vent and chat with fellow nurses!!!!!!