TSBSNRN

Thank you for your additional information. I think that between the information that you both have provided, it will give me a good place to start reviewing certain medications, and what to look for in patients coming out of anesthesia. Thank you so much! I am so excited to start my new job, and this information has given me a little boost of confidence so I don't start my first day totally confused. Thanks so much!

I started looking at hospitals that I was interested in throughout my senior year. I applied during my last semester of school. Each hospital, if they post new-grad RN applications, will post them at different times, and some hospitals post new grad opportunities at different times throughout the year. The best thing that I can tell you is to find hospitals in your area and see if they have applications posted. The ones that I applied for allowed you to apply prior to graduation and obtaining your license, but you had to graduate and be licensed by the start of the new-grad RN program. This may vary from state-to-state, but if you find hospitals in your area that you are interested in, and you do not see applications, I would call HR (Human Resources) and ask to talk to a Nurse Recruiter and ask them if they offer programs or applications for new grads, and when. Also, if there are "smaller" hospitals in your area, don't be afraid to look at those hospitals too. They need nurses just as much as the bigger hospitals. Look to see if they offer programs and if nothing is posted on their website about it, check with HR. It never hurts to ask! I did not start at the same hospital that I did my externship because of the distance between the hospital and my home. Good Luck!

I too was a parent to a young child when going through nursing school. Because of that, I was unable to work as a PCA or CNA during school like some of my classmates. I did however apply and was given a nurse extern job for nursing students between their junior and senior year of college. I mainly did CNA type work, and followed a RN around and assisted her with tasks that I was able to do. In my experience, I feel that I did not "fall behind" my other classmates who were able to be PCA's or CNA's during nursing school. During my senior year of college, I applied early and got a job in a hospital that had an application for new-grad RN's. In those type of programs, they really work to educate you and help you bridge between "school nursing" and "real nursing." By the time I was done with my training period, I felt pretty comfortable "going on my own." However, the resources I had before, like my preceptor, the charge nurse, other nurses, etc., were still there to help me and guide me when I needed assistance or help. Learning to be a nurse is difficult. You need to find out what works best for you, and find your "rhythm," and the way that you like to do things. In my experience, other nurses will step up and speak out if you're doing something wrong, or if there is a better way to do something. I still learn for more experienced nurses, and sometimes you also learn things from those who are not as "experienced" as you are. The best thing to is ASK for help when you need it. Also, if you're starting out in an ICU or Med-Surg, look for books online to read about the topic. Nursing requires life-long education, so don't ever feel embarrassed to look something up, ask someone a question, or read book after book to find the answers to question. Nursing does eventually get easier with time. Be patient, you will get there. Just remember to use all of your resources and remember that there is no such thing as a stupid question when you're learning.

Thank you for the information. I will look at the website and review those medications you listed. I just do not want to show up on my first day completely lost. I am so thankful for this website and all of the nurses out there willing to help, guide, support one another. Thanks again for the advice!

I am so excited! I recently got offered a job in the PACU, and I will be starting soon. I have never worked in the PACU before, but I have some experience in Med-Surg and Endoscopy. What advice can you give to a "newbie" about the PACU? I have always wanted to be in the OR setting, so I am extremely excited about this opportunity, and really want to learn, and hone my craft. If you know of any good books, websites, etc., about PACU or anything, please let me know. I really want to start work as prepared as I can be. Thanks for your help and advice!

Learning a new job, regardless of how much experience you have in other areas, is still challenging. You're used to a certain pace, certain types of patients, and a certain routine. In the ER, all of that goes out the window. You never know what is going to arrive, or what is going to happen. During nursing school, I did a practicum, in a busy ER, and in the beginning I was WAY overwhelmed. But towards the end of my practicum, I was starting to get used to the flow, the unexpected cases, and the chaotic "routine" of the ER. Give yourself a chance, and some time to get aquatinted with things. It takes a LONG time, years even, for nurses to really get comfortable with their job, duties, responsibilities, etc. Learning a new craft, or a new department, is the same way. It may not take as long as a new grad, or an inexperienced nurse, but you will get there. JUST BE PATIENT! DON'T BEAT YOURSELF UP!!! Also, if you're not sure of something, never be afraid to ask. Ask for more education if you feel you need it. If you're a reader, look for books that are directed towards the ER, as there are so many different things that an ER nurse must know. Good luck with everything!

I want to teach in academia. I want to teach those who wish to enter our mamboing profession. I have worked in a few different areas as a nurse, but I have known, since nursing school, that I eventually wanted to become a Nursing Teacher, or Professor. I do want to thank you for sharing the information about being a unit-based instructor and CPR instructor. I would be happy to do either workplace or academia, but right now, I am leaning more towards academia. I do know, however, that, that could change. I went into nursing school thinking I wanted to do PEDS or L&D and once I got into school, that was the one thing I learned that I did NOT want to do. But I will look into both in the mean time. I appreciate all of your advice and guidance. I am holding off on starting back to school when my little one starts school, so I have some time yet. I just starting the "planning" process. Looking at programs, schools, degree types, etc. So thanks again!

Thank you for your advice!

I did the "trick" many, many years ago now. When I tried to register to take the test it would not allow me to, and I passed. I did have a friend who did not pass the test, and it let her go through the process of registering for the test. I don't know, and cannot say the accuracy of this, but I do know that it worked for me.

I have been interested in becoming a Nurse Educator in the future. For those of you who are Nursing Educators, or are currently in programs, what advice can you offer one who is considering this in the next 3-5 years. I was also wondering if it was better to get a Nursing Educator (MSN) Degree, or go with something like a FNP. What MSN degree would offer a better chance of preparing one for educating our future nurses. I really want to help with the low percentage of nurses who are qualified to help educate future generations of nurses. Thanks for all your help, advice, and guidance!

Usually you can find "class statistics" from previous classes on their website. If there is no information like that, the best thing to do would be to call the School of Nursing, or see if you can meet with an advisor. I did however find this information: Admission - Nursing Major - Azusa Pacific University I hope that this is helpful for you. Good luck!