Calling all nurses

[Lavinya]

I'm seriously considering getting back into nursing. I have to take a refresher course (several hours away) because it's been more than four years since I have actively practiced. I don't think I want to go back to the prison because we basically acted as Dr.s (no Dr. on duty and they would rarely answer our call and I don't feel like losing my license due to flying by the seat of my pants.)

I have 3 possible areas I would like to work in. The first is the ER because I like the "novelty" and adrenalin rush and always learning, learning, learning, but I have a terrible, embarrassing confession that is making me shy away from it and that is starting IV's. I never had confidence in starting IV's (read scared to death), but I also had patients who had virtually no veins due to IV drug abuse in the prison. Of course you have that in the ER along with obese patients and patients with "used up" veins who are hard sticks, too. The the other problem I have about the ER is that I don't think I could do pedis. I HATE to hurt them when they are not aware of why I am, I can't stand the abuse and neglect you see with the tykes, the parents can usually be a**holes because they don't understand what and why you are doing what you are doing to their children, and it's always hard to hit a moving target. I HATE that something like this keeps me from what I want to do.

The other area is OB (but there is that pesky sticking again!), plus I don't know how willing the hospital is to train for the position and I ain't getting any younger! :tongueside:

The final interest is Behavioral Health (mental problems) which I don't *think* would bother me as I dealt with so many severely ill at the prison. And I'm too old to fight out of control patients. (Paging bearwds.)

Hep me, hep me!

[juliekan]

Hey Lavinya,
I am also going to take the refresher course this year, but have not worked in a long time, so I have no idea where I want to work. I worked in ICU for my whole career, but fear that that will be like starting over at zero, what with the rapid change in technology. Having dealt with 2 family members being in hospice in the last few years, I have some interest in that, being that you are there just to keep the patient comfortable and mostly deal with the family sounds like an interesting change. And the hospice people were wonderful! I would like to be "wonderful" like them.
Also Red Cross sounds interesting. I almost went into Transplant Nursing at one point, so nursing with some travel to dire situations sounds interesting to me also. I also miss the adrenalin rush, and am at my best in emergency situations.
I could go on and on, but this is a start....

[mrsmcgoo]

I am not a nurse, but where I live, we have been hearing for years about a huge nursing shortage. If you are able to still work in that profession, I think you would be a great asset to whatever area of nursing you choose.

Best of luck to you. :smile:

[Lavinya]

I am not a nurse, but where I live, we have been hearing for years about a huge nursing shortage. If you are able to still work in that profession, I think you would be a great asset to whatever area of nursing you choose.

Best of luck to you. :smile:

Thanks Mrsmagoo. You know that old saying, "This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you? That's me and I HAVE to get over it because I know I'm a good nurse! (Nursing shortages are so prevalent anymore except in small pockets because so many breadwinners are of work. :unsure:)

[Lynx]

Thanks Mrsmagoo. You know that old saying, "This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you? That's me and I HAVE to get over it because I know I'm a good nurse! (Nursing shortages are so prevalent anymore except in small pockets because so many breadwinners are of work. :unsure:)

I am not a nurse but my daughter is. Have you ever thought about Home health Care? She loves it. Good Luck!:smile:

[sinagua]

There are some public schools that have nurses, but I doubt that those jobs pay very well.

My friend that works in ICU, just 1/2 time, makes very good money.

[Lavinya]

Hey Lavinya,
I am also going to take the refresher course this year, but have not worked in a long time, so I have no idea where I want to work. I worked in ICU for my whole career, but fear that that will be like starting over at zero, what with the rapid change in technology. Having dealt with 2 family members being in hospice in the last few years, I have some interest in that, being that you are there just to keep the patient comfortable and mostly deal with the family sounds like an interesting change. And the hospice people were wonderful! I would like to be "wonderful" like them.
Also Red Cross sounds interesting. I almost went into Transplant Nursing at one point, so nursing with some travel to dire situations sounds interesting to me also. I also miss the adrenalin rush, and am at my best in emergency situations.
I could go on and on, but this is a start....

Hey Jules. Can't travel because of the kiddos. When I was really little, my father and I used to fantasize about me working on the SS Hope. That would be cool beans. Just think of all the new meds and equipment since we worked! Ai yi yi!

Did you have a tough time finind a refresher course, too? Lawsy, it's a state secret here.

(I'll be off and on here because I have a bit of a virus. Not ignoring anyone! :wub:)

[juliekan]

http://www.memorialhermann.org/careers/nursingcareers/content.aspx?id=3638

Agnes Mautner RN, BSN
Education Resource Specialist
Memorial Hermann Memorial City
921 Gessner
Houston, TX 77024
Phone: 713-242-4851
Fax: 713-242-3539

I wonder if Memorial Hosp. in your area has a refresher? This is the number I found at the houston site to call about refresher course.

[Lavinya]

http://www.memorialhermann.org/careers/nursingcareers/content.aspx?id=3638

Agnes Mautner RN, BSN
Education Resource Specialist
Memorial Hermann Memorial City
921 Gessner
Houston, TX 77024
Phone: 713-242-4851
Fax: 713-242-3539

I wonder if Memorial Hosp. in your area has a refresher? This is the number I found at the houston site to call about refresher course.

This is the place I found!!!! I'm calling them later today. It's about 90 miles from here but I can do anything for a while. (Off for a nap.)

[bearwds]

I'm seriously considering getting back into nursing.....
The final interest is Behavioral Health (mental problems) which I don't *think* would bother me as I dealt with so many severely ill at the prison. And I'm too old to fight out of control patients. (Paging bearwds.)
Hep me, hep me! <bandwidth snip>

******************************************

bearwds responding to page....

Glad to hear you are considering returning to the field.

I'll speak only to the area of psych nursing. I hope this isn't too esoteric and that others may find it interesting and/or helpful.

A recent publication outlined some of the areas that are now showing up in the field due to court decisions. In Calif., there is a statute called the "Wellness and Recovery Program". It stems from a 92 page 2006 consent judgement between the U.S. Dept. of Justice and the Calif. Dept of Mental Health requiring certain changes at state hospitals within 5 years, in keeping with the federal Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act. Included in the consent judgement are requirements to reduce psychiatric medications so that "they are not used as a substitute for adequate treatment of the underlying cause of the individuals distress."

Also impacting states hospitals' safety--and the wider safety of Calif. communities in general-are two court rulings allowing individuals with even the most severe mental illnesses to refuse psychiatric medications.

The first-a 2003 U.S. Supreme Court decision-put strict limitations on using anti-psychotic medications who are committed as incompetent to stand trial. Then, in 2004, the Calif. Supreme Court issued a ruling regarding those hospitalized as "Mentally Disordered Offenders."

The effect of this is bizarre. You have a MDSO who has served ordered prison time and then committed to a State hospital for an indeterminate time due to being a danger to others. They are now able to refuse medications.

You can imagine what type of "therapeutic environment" this creates and how it affects the ward staff and patients.

In short, the courts have created a sanctioned system that is neither safe or therapeutic.

As an aside, there is a "hiring freeze" in effect for the foreseeable future.

Glad I retired after almost 30 years in the field, most as supervisor. I wouldn't want to be responsible for the lives of my staff under those conditions.

...liked the James Brown ref: "hep-me"

Hope you found some of this helpful.


bear

[Citygirl]

Maybe you are only wishful thinkin Lavinya, not that it's a bad thing, but I remember you postin several times that you are disabled.. are you no longer disabled?
This thread has confused me..you posted you have MS and since I don't think you can recover from that..how are you not disabled anymore..
Working as a nurse is very stressful, both physically and mentally so I hope you are not thinking of goin back in the profession because you are bored being at home for so long..
whatever you do..good luck to you..I wish you the best.

[Veritas~]

***snipped***
The final interest is Behavioral Health (mental problems) which I don't *think* would bother me as I dealt with so many severely ill at the prison. And I'm too old to fight out of control patients. (Paging bearwds.)

Hep me, hep me!


Here, your first case study:



http://boards.insessiontrials.com/showthread.php?t=363310

[Debb]

Best wishes on your new nursing endeavor. I appreciate every good nurse I have encountered.

I saw something on Celebrity Rehab last night that caused me to say WHAAAAAT? Dr. Drew, who is the lead therapist and is also a MD, took blood from a patient. I noticed he did not wear gloves! I could not believe it. Aren't all health care professionals supposed to wear gloves when handling blood. Just curious if you or other nurses here know.

[bearwds]

Best wishes on your new nursing endeavor. I appreciate every good nurse I have encountered.

I saw something on Celebrity Rehab last night that caused me to say WHAAAAAT? Dr. Drew, who is the lead therapist and is also a MD, took blood from a patient. I noticed he did not wear gloves! I could not believe it. Aren't all health care professionals supposed to wear gloves when handling blood. Just curious if you or other nurses here know.

************************************

Short answer....no.

Per the "Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published and released March 2008, "Injection Safety FAQ's for Providers;"

"Proper hand hygiene should be performed before handling medications."


bear

[Debb]

Thanks for the info. Still, I prefer them wearing gloves if they are going to take my blood. It just seems safer to me.

[Mandysmom]

Lavinya if you have problems with starting IVs and not being able to hit veins easily, I would not want you poking around on me.

I have had problems with nurses who can't find a vein and just continue to poke and prod endlessly until I finally got enough and demanded they go and find somebody who could do it.

I never have a problem with the people at my doc's office so that kind of lets me know it's not me, but them.

There was an article here in the news not long ago about nurses who are recent grads not being able to find work unless they have a specialty and that is closing up. Seems like a lot of people who had stopped nursing and found themselves needing to return to work because of the job market changing had gone back to work and the new grads were left out.

I wish you luck in whatever you decide.

Oh shoot here's the link to the article.
http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2009/08/rare_nursing_surplus_fed_by_re.html

[tootie]

For me personally I didn't like the medical field. If you like it then go for it! Your bound to be very successful in your endeavors! Good luck.

[bearwds]

For me personally I didn't like the medical field. If you like it then go for it! Your bound to be very successful in your endeavors! Good luck.

***********************************

...all those darn sick people


bear

[juliekan]

This is the place I found!!!! I'm calling them later today. It's about 90 miles from here but I can do anything for a while. (Off for a nap.)

It only has 2 days hospital orientation, and 80 hrs clinical, if I read the info right

[WillowInFlight]

Maybe you are only wishful thinkin Lavinya, not that it's a bad thing, but I remember you postin several times that you are disabled.. are you no longer disabled?
This thread has confused me..you posted you have MS and since I don't think you can recover from that..how are you not disabled anymore..
Working as a nurse is very stressful, both physically and mentally so I hope you are not thinking of goin back in the profession because you are bored being at home for so long..
whatever you do..good luck to you..I wish you the best.

Should someone check on her? how long can someone nap?

[WillowInFlight]

***********************************

...all those darn sick people


bear

:laugh: ignorance at it's bliss

[tootie]

***********************************

...all those darn sick people


bear

Actually it was those darn providers that acted like children. I can't count how many times I saw a chart go sailing across the hall just because the provider didn't "have it their way" or maybe they didn't get to take a lunch that day. I never knew educated people like doctors and nurse practitioners could act that way.....

That was enough for me. If I wanted to work around (c@#!) I would have took a job at a sewage plant.

Edited to add: For what it's worth I DID indeed stay sick all but 4 months out of the year I worked there.

[WillowInFlight]

Actually it was those darn providers that acted like children. I can't count how many times I saw a chart go sailing across the hall just because the provider didn't "have it their way" or maybe they didn't get to take a lunch that day. I never knew educated people like doctors and nurse practitioners could act that way.....

That was enough for me. If I wanted to work around (c@#!) I would have took a job at a sewage plant.

What a shame!,I think that people that put on a uniform feel this sense of grandiose at times.

[tootie]

What a shame!,I think that people that put on a uniform feel this sense of grandiose at times.

Honestly you have no idea. Not ALL doctors are like this so when you find one that does actually give you the time of day, stick with them. They are rare. I had no idea what all went on behind the scenes. It is unbelievable. The place I worked for advertised "Walk In's Welcome". But I have seen them leave a walk in waiting for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Patient get mad and leave and THEN the provider go grab the chart to see what they were there for and throw it out of anger because they left! And God forbid you came in at 5 minutes till closing. Then it was pass your chart off from one provider to the next because they need to get home. I mean really. Don't advertise walk ins welcome, if they really aren't welcome! And for those that have waited any length of time in a doctors office will know what I'm talking about.

[WillowInFlight]

Honestly you have no idea. Not ALL doctors are like this so when you find one that does actually give you the time of day, stick with them. They are rare. I had no idea what all went on behind the scenes. It is unbelievable. The place I worked for advertised "Walk In's Welcome". But I have seen them leave a walk in waiting for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Patient get mad and leave and THEN the provider go grab the chart to see what they were there for and throw it out of anger because they left! And God forbid you came in at 5 minutes till closing. Then it was pass your chart off from one provider to the next because they need to get home. I mean really. Don't advertise walk ins welcome, if they really aren't welcome! And for those that have waited any length of time in a doctors office will know what I'm talking about.

exactly!!!!

[tootie]

My apologies to Lavinya for my little rant. If you are called into the field then absolutely do it. These places need caring and compassionate people, and that generally comes from the nurse not a doctor.

[JennyM]

Honestly you have no idea. Not ALL doctors are like this so when you find one that does actually give you the time of day, stick with them. They are rare. I had no idea what all went on behind the scenes. It is unbelievable. The place I worked for advertised "Walk In's Welcome". But I have seen them leave a walk in waiting for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Patient get mad and leave and THEN the provider go grab the chart to see what they were there for and throw it out of anger because they left! And God forbid you came in at 5 minutes till closing. Then it was pass your chart off from one provider to the next because they need to get home. I mean really. Don't advertise walk ins welcome, if they really aren't welcome! And for those that have waited any length of time in a doctors office will know what I'm talking about.

I've heard about the kind of clinics you work in. Not good. I'm glad I have good medical care and docs where I am. They are certainly all not like the people you described, thank goodness. My docs and nurses are amazing.

[Lavinya]

I didn't mean to start this thread and abandon it. My youngest brought me the gift of a GI virus apparently. There are several comments I want to address but it will be a day or two. Sorry to post anj run!

[tootie]

I didn't mean to start this thread and abandon it. My youngest brought me the gift of a GI virus apparently. There are several comments I want to address but it will be a day or two. Sorry to post anj run!

Oh dear. I am sorry you are feeling bad. I hope you get to feeling better soon.

[offthewagon]

I didn't mean to start this thread and abandon it. My youngest brought me the gift of a GI virus apparently. There are several comments I want to address but it will be a day or two. Sorry to post anj run!

if you are not even strong enough to answer a few posts on a message board, how are you going to handle 12 hour shifts in a busy ER when you have a gunshot in bed 1, bowel obstruction bed 6, acute MI in T4 and a nursing home patient with sepsis on a gurney in the hallway?

and about your fear of IVs. your confidence level goes up exponentially with every stick you score. so if they are the one thing you are scared of, then no matter where you decide to work, volunteer to do every IV you can.

me personally? sometimes i think i would just love to do IV team only. there aint a vein in the world that can hide from me :thumbsup:

[Lavinya]

if you are not even strong enough to answer a few posts on a message board, how are you going to handle 12 hour shifts in a busy ER when you have a gunshot in bed 1, bowel obstruction bed 6, acute MI in T4 and a nursing home patient with sepsis on a gurney in the hallway?

and about your fear of IVs. your confidence level goes up exponentially with every stick you score. so if they are the one thing you are scared of, then no matter where you decide to work, volunteer to do every IV you can.

me personally? sometimes i think i would just love to do IV team only. there aint a vein in the world that can hide from me :thumbsup:

Jesum Crow, get back ON the wagon! I hardly think my attention, or lack of the same, to this board while I have the flu is akin to working the ER with GSW's, BO's, MI's and sepsis. If any of ya'll died from my lack of attention the last few days, you have my sincerest apology and flowers are on the way. :tongueside:

Mandysmom, I would never poke around on someone! I'm probably an above average "sticker", I just have anxiety over it "just in case". If I don't get someone on the first try, I get someone else to try. My patients have almost always been difficult sticks as they are quite frequently hard-core IV drug addicts with little to work with. I can get a "normal" person like a champ. It's just one of those hang-ups I don't understand myself.

Citygirl, I have thought long and hard about working with MS. I have relatively minor symptoms. A few times a year my left leg goes numb (very similar to when your leg "falls asleep" except without any pain) but I am able to walk on it and it just last a few minutes. The only symptoms I have day to day is that I sometimes have trouble thinking of a word I want to use ( a little more so than most people) but mostly I have a lot of trouble writing. If I'm using electronic charting, I'll be fine because I can see my mistakes right away and correct them. If I'm writing by hand, I have to struggle to remember which way a "d" is turned or a "p", etc. I'm not fearful that I will not be diligent with my patients, I am a little fearful that working hard (and nursing is HARD work) might make me more susceptible to worsening my illness.

I went through college and worked while I had severe Crohn's disease, a toddler, a teenager and had to rebuild our house after a flood and I earned the top GPA of my graduating class with a 4.0 and never took a sick day from work. (I mention this because I believe I have a good track record of grit and determination.)

I'm not wanting to work to get out of the house (I'm an EXTREME homebody and wouldn't much care if I never got out, lol.), but hubby is a home builder and times are a little tight right now and I would like to help my husband out, too. Plus, I would like to have my foot in the door *somewhere* just in case something should ever happen to hubby. If my husband got sick tomorrow, we would be up the creek without a paddle. My husband and I don't mind the creek so much, but we have an 11 year old son that likes dry land, lol.

Thanks to all that responded!

All this typing has exhausted me. :wink:

[MsBondJamesBond]

<snip>
All this typing has exhausted me. :wink:

Perhaps it's time for a nap. :tonguewag:

[offthewagon]

considering that nursing is at the very least 50 % charting, that might pose a problem for you. and many facilities have both written and computer charting. it IS nursing after all so we gotta have the duplicate work that we are famous for.

if you are serious, then you should check into telephone triage. i actually have many friends that do this and they love it. the work is mentally stressful but not physically stressful and after a few months, you can work out of your home.


my comments to you about your possible patient load in an ER were to show you that if typing on a message board wears you out, then that probably isn't the area for you. sorry if the truth hurts. but honestly, with crohns, MS, a child and all else that you have on your plate, do you think you could handle going back to work? can you not get disablitiy?

[Lavinya]

Perhaps it's time for a nap. :tonguewag:

For a week at least. :lol:

[Lavinya]

considering that nursing is at the very least 50 % charting, that might pose a problem for you. and many facilities have both written and computer charting. it IS nursing after all so we gotta have the duplicate work that we are famous for.

if you are serious, then you should check into telephone triage. i actually have many friends that do this and they love it. the work is mentally stressful but not physically stressful and after a few months, you can work out of your home.


my comments to you about your possible patient load in an ER were to show you that if typing on a message board wears you out, then that probably isn't the area for you. sorry if the truth hurts. but honestly, with crohns, MS, a child and all else that you have on your plate, do you think you could handle going back to work? can you not get disablitiy?

I was being facetious about being tired from typing, since you thought I hadn't had enough strength to post the last 2 days.

I haven't had a bout of Crohn's in over 10 years but yes, the other problems remain. I am not able to draw disability of any kind. I was not employed when I was DX'd and I hadn't worked enough quarters the years up to my diagnoses to qualify for SSI. I'm SOL that way, lol.

I haven't thought of telephone triage but it piques my interest. I'll look into it. Thanks for the tip.

[offthewagon]

ugh! that sucks.

you should definitely look into telephone triage then. the company that does it here is called Team Health. I know they are a huge corporation. everyone i know that works there loves it. you sound like you might be a good fit for it.

also look into insurance case management. this is also something you can do straight from home.

[Lavinya]

ugh! that sucks.

you should definitely look into telephone triage then. the company that does it here is called Team Health. I know they are a huge corporation. everyone i know that works there loves it. you sound like you might be a good fit for it.

also look into insurance case management. this is also something you can do straight from home.

Thanks for the info! This might be right up my alley!

[offthewagon]

Thanks for the info! This might be right up my alley!

good luck!

[Lavinya]

good luck!

Much appreciated!

[juliekan]

if you are not even strong enough to answer a few posts on a message board, how are you going to handle 12 hour shifts in a busy ER when you have a gunshot in bed 1, bowel obstruction bed 6, acute MI in T4 and a nursing home patient with sepsis on a gurney in the hallway?

and about your fear of IVs. your confidence level goes up exponentially with every stick you score. so if they are the one thing you are scared of, then no matter where you decide to work, volunteer to do every IV you can.

me personally? sometimes i think i would just love to do IV team only. there aint a vein in the world that can hide from me :thumbsup:

I'm a fan of blood gas sticks. I could always hit them when no one else could.

Thanks for the tip on phone triage, I worked for a Home Health Agency and used to have to do that. Maybe an idea for me, too.

[Lavinya]

I'm a fan of blood gas sticks. I could always hit them when no one else could.

Thanks for the tip on phone triage, I worked for a Home Health Agency and used to have to do that. Maybe an idea for me, too.

I never drew for an ABG but I've had it done to me several times. NOT pleasant.:scared: I've had a lumbar puncture, too and the LP hurt less than the ABG.

Ohhh, Julie, wouldn't it be great if we find a good job fit for us? I just have no idea what I want to be when I grow up. :shrug:

[Mandysmom]

I wish you luck Lavinya in whatever you decide to do. I have had nurses who could get an IV started with no trouble at all and some who could not if I put the vein outside the arm for them. lol

A sweet nurse told me that there was no need to suffer with someone who couldn't do it. She said she only allowed somebody two tries with her then it was no more.

It was not my intention to insult you. :smile:

[Lavinya]

I wish you luck Lavinya in whatever you decide to do. I have had nurses who could get an IV started with no trouble at all and some who could not if I put the vein outside the arm for them. lol

A sweet nurse told me that there was no need to suffer with someone who couldn't do it. She said she only allowed somebody two tries with her then it was no more.

It was not my intention to insult you. :smile:

No no MM! I didn't think you were being insulting. I know exactly what you mean. The ones I hate are the ones who will dig and dig. That is not only painful but it can injure nerves and lacerate the vein. If they start doing that I tell them just to pull out and totally re-try. I'll even buy the new needle. :wink:

[tootie]

No no MM! I didn't think you were being insulting. I know exactly what you mean. The ones I hate are the ones who will dig and dig. That is not only painful but it can injure nerves and lacerate the vein. If they start doing that I tell them just to pull out and totally re-try. I'll even buy the new needle. :wink:

Agreed, I never dug on people either. This is bad but I always had a hard time finding a vein on obese people. If I couldn't get it on the second try I always had someone else do it for me. It may have just been mental, I don't know?

[JennyM]

Agreed, I never dug on people either. This is bad but I always had a hard time finding a vein on obese people. If I couldn't get it on the second try I always had someone else do it for me. It may have just been mental, I don't know?

What do you mean by mental?

[bearwds]

*********************************

Can't sticks be expedited by using a "butterfly" needle..??


bear

[Citygirl]

Agreed, I never dug on people either. This is bad but I always had a hard time finding a vein on obese people. If I couldn't get it on the second try I always had someone else do it for me. It may have just been mental, I don't know?


You are right..this was bad. :cursing:

[tootie]

What do you mean by mental?

When you go in with the mindset that this person is obese and are thinking I won't be able to find a vein before you even try.

[tootie]

*********************************

Can't sticks be expedited by using a "butterfly" needle..??


bear

Yes, they can.

[Mandysmom]

No no MM! I didn't think you were being insulting. I know exactly what you mean. The ones I hate are the ones who will dig and dig. That is not only painful but it can injure nerves and lacerate the vein. If they start doing that I tell them just to pull out and totally re-try. I'll even buy the new needle. :wink:

:scared:You're right, when they stick the needle in and start digging around. Oh my.

I usually am not a whiny baby when it comes to stuff like that, so I put up with a lot.

My friend is exactly the opposite, if they can't find it on the first try, she makes them get somebody who can. lol

[Lavinya]

*********************************

Can't sticks be expedited by using a "butterfly" needle..??


bear

If you don't anticipate using a large bore needle for blood, rapid fluids, viscous meds, etc. a butterfly is easier. For the most part when I worked, we usually went ahead with a standard IV, usually an 18-20G (I had one Dr. specify 14G!!! :scared:He was trying to weed out malingerers though.) because if someone goes south on you, it's a lot harder to establish IV access as the patient gets sicker.

[WillowInFlight]

When you go in with the mindset that this person is obese and are thinking I won't be able to find a vein before you even try.

Doesn't sound like nursing is for you if are mentally prejudging your patients due to weight. IMO. My 19 year old daughter weighs 100 pounds and they can never find a vein, they usually have to use the veins in her hand.

[Shells2]

Doesn't sound like nursing is for you if are mentally prejudging your patients due to weight. IMO. My 19 year old daughter weighs 100 pounds and they can never find a vein, they usually have to use the veins in her hand.


I'm not obese and they have a lot of problems finding a vein on me too... I usually have to have something warm held on my inner elbow for a few minutes before they even try..

[PatC]

Could someone explain what "phone triage" is...

Clearly I'm not a medico, just curious.

[DesertStars]

No no MM! I didn't think you were being insulting. I know exactly what you mean. The ones I hate are the ones who will dig and dig. That is not only painful but it can injure nerves and lacerate the vein. If they start doing that I tell them just to pull out and totally re-try. I'll even buy the new needle. :wink:

This totally harkens back to the time when I was 15 years old and in the hospital getting ready to have bone spurs removed from my heels. I was very thin, blonde and have very light, thin skin. The nurse who tried to do my IV tried in my arm a few times and then in my hand two or three times. She said "You have very tough skin" before she managed to get it in my hand. Even at 15 years old I knew this not to be the case. I wish everyone who wants to be a nurse and IMO, it is among the noblest of professions, good luck and God speed. We need more caring, capable and talented professionals. :smile:

[Lavinya]

Could someone explain what "phone triage" is...

Clearly I'm not a medico, just curious.

You would use a computer algorithm to assess the severity of a patient's symptoms, prioritize treatment, possible diagnoses, who to refer the patient to, etc. and it's all done by phone. You don't see the patient in person.

[DesertStars]

Doesn't sound like nursing is for you if are mentally prejudging your patients due to weight. IMO. My 19 year old daughter weighs 100 pounds and they can never find a vein, they usually have to use the veins in her hand.

Willow: Oh, gosh, please see my post. This may explain why the nurse had such a hard time finding a vein in me when I was 15 years old and maybe weighed 100 pounds soaking wet. My DH was an emergency medical technician at one point during his career and he says that some people have "inner veins" which is what I, apparently have, and that some people have "outer veins" which you can see on them easily, especially on men. Makes sense.

[WillowInFlight]

Willow: Oh, gosh, please see my post. This may explain why the nurse had such a hard time finding a vein in me when I was 15 years old and maybe weighed 100 pounds soaking wet. My DH was an emergency medical technician at one point during his career and he says that some people have "inner veins" which is what I, apparently have, and that some people have "outer veins" which you can see on them easily, especially on men. Makes sense.

Makes perfect sense to me, in fact makes more sense than someone making a mental judgment because someone is obese.

[Lavenia]

Ever since I discovered the "butterfly" my IV nightmares have diminished considerably. I tell all the nurses who have to draw my blood to use one or we, especially me, will be sorry.

My veins are small, they move away from the needle and they collapse and explode easily. So, needless to say, I don't give blood anymore. :sad:

Lavinya, I believe you'll be an awesome nurse, if that's what you set your mind to do. Good luck. The Triage thing sounds good. GO FOR IT!

Thank you Spyder! I'm certainly looking into it!

[warhorse46]

You know you*re a nurse when..

1) The front of your scrubs reads 'Nurses... here to save your *ss, not kiss it!

2) You occasionally park in the space with the 'physicians only' sign and knock it over.

3) You believe some patients are alive only because it*s illegal to kill them.

4) You recognize that you can't cure stupid.

5) You own at least three pens with the names of prescription medications on them.

6) You believe there's a special place in hell for the inventor of the call light.

7) You believe that saying 'it can*t get any worse' causes it to get worse just to show you it can.

8) You wash your hands BEFORE you go to the bathroom.

9) You believe that any job where you can drive to work in your pajamas is a cool one.

10) You consider a tongue depressor an eating utensil.

11) Eating microwave popcorn out of a clean bedpan is perfectly natural.

12) You've been exposed to so many x-rays that you consider it a form of birth control.

13) You've even heard a patient with a nose ring, a brow ring, and twelve earrings say 'I'm afraid of injections.'

14) You've even placed a bet on someone*s blood alcohol level.

15) You've told a confused patient that your name is that of a co-worker and to call if they need help.

16) Your bladder can expand to the size of a Winnebago's water tank.

17) You have seen more penises than any prostitute could dream of.

18) You believe that not all patients are annoying... Some are unconscious.

19) Your family and friends refuse to watch medical sitcoms with you because you spend the whole time correcting everyone and pointing out upside down x-rays.

20) You don't get excited about blood, unless it's your own.

21) You've sworn to have 'do not resuscitate* tattooed on your chest. Soon..

22) Discussing dismemberment over a gourmet meal is perfectly normal to you.

23) Your idea of fine dining is anywhere you can sit down to eat.

24) Your idea of a good time is a cardiac arrest at shift change.

25) You believe in the aerial spraying of Prozac or Haldol.

26) You believe that 'shallow gene pool' should be a recognized diagnosis.

27) You believe that the government should require permits to reproduce.

28) You believe that unspeakable evils will befall anyone who utters the phrase 'Wow, it's really quiet, isn't it?

29) You have even had a patient look you straight in the eye and say 'I have no idea how that got stuck in there..'

30) You've had to leave a patient*s room before you begin to laugh uncontrollably.

Thanks, to all of you honest, hardworking, caring nurses out there! :patriot: :patriot:


Yes, it is all true! LOL.

[warhorse46]

If you don't anticipate using a large bore needle for blood, rapid fluids, viscous meds, etc. a butterfly is easier. For the most part when I worked, we usually went ahead with a standard IV, usually an 18-20G (I had one Dr. specify 14G!!! :scared:He was trying to weed out malingerers though.) because if someone goes south on you, it's a lot harder to establish IV access as the patient gets sicker.



The maternal/child unit where I worked we used 20-21 gage on the neonates & 18-20 gage on moms. Hitting a vein on a 1 lb neonate with a 20-21 gage cath can be tricky but once you master it, other IVs are a breeze. For blood draws I always used butterflies if there was not an access line in place. Even when I moved to home health/hospice I used butterflies for blood draws. The company screamed about cost but I ignored them because the butterfly was less painful to the patient.

[bearwds]

***************************************

SPYDEE... List was fantastic. Had some real belly laughs...thanx..!!


bear

[bearwds]

*************************************

W/H... Looks like 'puter is working ok now..??

You mentioned "cost" of butterfly's. Do you recall the case a couple of years ago whereby the HHC nurse was using "re-sterilized" butterfly's because she could never hit a vein..?? HIV tests all around.

Sure she went away for awhile..story is prob on Net.


bear

[Bottrell]

*************************************

W/H... Looks like 'puter is working ok now..??

You mentioned "cost" of butterfly's. Do you recall the case a couple of years ago whereby the HHC nurse was using "re-sterilized" butterfly's because she could never hit a vein..?? HIV tests all around.

Sure she went away for awhile..story is prob on Net.


bear

I'm sure this isn't the one you're talking about but I saw this on TV last night and made my blood boil. I am so glad the judge threw out the plea deal!:thumbdown:


http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/22/AR2010012202733.html
Prosecutors said Parker exposed nearly 6,000 patients at the two hospitals to the incurable blood-borne disease, and about three dozen were infected.

[bearwds]

I'm sure this isn't the one you're talking about but I saw this on TV last night and made my blood boil. I am so glad the judge threw out the plea deal!:thumbdown:


http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/22/AR2010012202733.html
Prosecutors said Parker exposed nearly 6,000 patients at the two hospitals to the incurable blood-borne disease, and about three dozen were infected.

*****************************************

Interesting story...but not the one I was speaking about.

Let me see what I can find.


bear

[bearwds]

**************************************

Ok...found it.

Name was Elaine Gedrgi. Palo Alto CA. Judge appearance Aug 26, 2002.

Reference www.sfgate.com

Don't have time to provide Link right now....


bear

[Lavenia]

The maternal/child unit where I worked we used 20-21 gage on the neonates & 18-20 gage on moms. Hitting a vein on a 1 lb neonate with a 20-21 gage cath can be tricky but once you master it, other IVs are a breeze. For blood draws I always used butterflies if there was not an access line in place. Even when I moved to home health/hospice I used butterflies for blood draws. The company screamed about cost but I ignored them because the butterfly was less painful to the patient.

Same here on the butterflies for the blood draws. I've been on anti-coagulant therapy for about 25 years now, and I have one good AC vein left and not much else, and I try to protect it by demanding butterflies for my sticks.

I have never had to do an IV in a babe. :scared:

[incidentally]

I always suggest a butterfly when someone is preparing to draw blood from me but many times get a mean look, as if to say who am I to tell THEM what to do. After they dig around for awhile they generally change to a butterfly or are so humiliated they have someone else come in and complete the task, with a BUTTERFLY.

There is one nurse in my doctor's office that is very good and when she hears they are drawing blood from me I can hear her through the door all the way down the hall "Let me do it! I can do it!". They all come in and huddle around her oooooohing and ahhhhhing as she gives demonstrates her technique.

Good thing I'm not squeamish when it comes to taking blood. Now, a needle in the mouth? OHHHHHH HECK NO!:scared:

[warhorse46]

*************************************

W/H... Looks like 'puter is working ok now..??

You mentioned "cost" of butterfly's. Do you recall the case a couple of years ago whereby the HHC nurse was using "re-sterilized" butterfly's because she could never hit a vein..?? HIV tests all around.

Sure she went away for awhile..story is prob on Net.


bear


My pc is kinda sorta working, still do not have it set exactly like I want it.
I don't remember that but it sounds just horrible.

[warhorse46]

Same here on the butterflies for the blood draws. I've been on anti-coagulant therapy for about 25 years now, and I have one good AC vein left and not much else, and I try to protect it by demanding butterflies for my sticks.

I have never had to do an IV in a babe. :scared:



I went to work on the maternal/child unit primarily in the NICU & Sick Baby units right out of nursing school, so I cut my IV teeth on babies. After doing those going for an adult vein was like aiming for a garden hose to me.

[warhorse46]

I always suggest a butterfly when someone is preparing to draw blood from me but many times get a mean look, as if to say who am I to tell THEM what to do. After they dig around for awhile they generally change to a butterfly or are so humiliated they have someone else come in and complete the task, with a BUTTERFLY.

There is one nurse in my doctor's office that is very good and when she hears they are drawing blood from me I can hear her through the door all the way down the hall "Let me do it! I can do it!". They all come in and huddle around her oooooohing and ahhhhhing as she gives demonstrates her technique.

Good thing I'm not squeamish when it comes to taking blood. Now, a needle in the mouth? OHHHHHH HECK NO!:scared:


You are the patient & the one paying their salary so you have the final say.

[Lavenia]

I went to work on the maternal/child unit primarily in the NICU & Sick Baby units right out of nursing school, so I cut my IV teeth on babies. After doing those going for an adult vein was like aiming for a garden hose to me.

Oh my, I should say so, lol.

Spyder, your list was right ON! I thought we thought up all those ideas and I guess all the nurses all over were coming up with the same ideas at the same time, lol.

[Mandysmom]

I always suggest a butterfly when someone is preparing to draw blood from me but many times get a mean look, as if to say who am I to tell THEM what to do. After they dig around for awhile they generally change to a butterfly or are so humiliated they have someone else come in and complete the task, with a BUTTERFLY.

There is one nurse in my doctor's office that is very good and when she hears they are drawing blood from me I can hear her through the door all the way down the hall "Let me do it! I can do it!". They all come in and huddle around her oooooohing and ahhhhhing as she gives demonstrates her technique.

Good thing I'm not squeamish when it comes to taking blood. Now, a needle in the mouth? OHHHHHH HECK NO!:scared:You brought up a memory of when mama was hospitalized and the nurse came in to draw blood and got nasty with mama when she tried to tell her where they had the best luck.

Mama called me right before I left to go to my child's basketball game and told me because she had hurt her feelings. I called the hospital and finally spoke to the nursing supervisor and told her in no uncertain terms that my mama was not going to be treated that way.

They got it straightened out and it was a good thing, because I would've hated being in jail. :mad:

[AlohaRainbow]

*SNIP*

Ohhh, Julie, wouldn't it be great if we find a good job fit for us? I just have no idea what I want to be when I grow up. :shrug:
i love what i'm doing now - nurse paralegal. i get to use my nursing knowledge and experience in a new way, by reviewing medical records and helping the attorney understand the medical aspects of our cases (i work for a law firm that defends physicians in medical malpractice claims).

our local community college offers paralegal classes but i learned the paralegal aspects of my job as on-the-job training.

[incidentally]

You brought up a memory of when mama was hospitalized and the nurse came in to draw blood and got nasty with mama when she tried to tell her where they had the best luck.

Mama called me right before I left to go to my child's basketball game and told me because she had hurt her feelings. I called the hospital and finally spoke to the nursing supervisor and told her in no uncertain terms that my mama was not going to be treated that way.

They got it straightened out and it was a good thing, because I would've hated being in jail. :mad:

Good for you, Mandysmom.

Several months ago I had to visit the doctor and I was answering her questions. She came to one question that I didn't understand I started to stammer and become flustered. She threw her hands up and in a very demeaning tone said in a raised voice "CALM DOWN! JUST CALM DOWN". I went from flustered to shocked and literally did not say another word. After the examination, as she started to leave, she stopped turned around and said "Oh, and about your skin problem. There is only one medication that really works. I could write you a prescription but you couldn't afford it", then she turned and walked out.

I barely made it to my car and I sat there and just cried and cried. It still hurts my feelings just to think about it. She treated me like some useless old lady.

Now I hate to go there and get terribly nervous at the thought of it.

[Noah]

I barely made it to my car and I sat there and just cried and cried. It still hurts my feelings just to think about it. She treated me like some useless old lady.

Now I hate to go there and get terribly nervous at the thought of it.

That's terrible! I'm so sorry you were treated like that. Can you change doctors?

When my hubby was in ICU after his last stroke, I called one night to just check on him because I wasn't able to visit long that day cuz he was down in MRI, etc.

I said to the nurse "I'm calling to check on my husband."
She said "Well...what do you want to know?"
I said "How's he doing tonight?"
She said "He's not dead, if that's what you mean."

Ask me how fast I reported her.

[Zeep]

That's terrible! I'm so sorry you were treated like that. Can you change doctors?

When my hubby was in ICU after his last stroke, I called one night to just check on him because I wasn't able to visit long that day cuz he was down in MRI, etc.

I said to the nurse "I'm calling to check on my husband."
She said "Well...what do you want to know?"
I said "How's he doing tonight?"
She said "He's not dead, if that's what you mean."

Ask me how fast I reported her.

That reminds me of when my grandmother was in the nursing home. She was terminal and we knew it was just a matter of time.

I stayed at the nursing home with her one night until around 9pm, then had to go home to get some rest. I couldn't sleep for worrying, so I waited until after shift change and called the nurse's station just before midnight.

The nurse said "Ohhhh, she's quiet as can be.. we haven't heard a peep out of her". I said "Wow.. I can't believe this, because even with her pain meds, she was moaning".

About 10 mins later, my phone rang. It was the nurse telling me that my grandmother had "just died".

I was really upset.. because no.. she hadn't just died.. the reason you hadn't heard a peep out of her is because she was dead, but you hadn't rounded on her. :mad:

I guess she would've been in full rigor mortis by the time they found her if I hadn't called.

[sunbunny]

That's terrible! I'm so sorry you were treated like that. Can you change doctors?

When my hubby was in ICU after his last stroke, I called one night to just check on him because I wasn't able to visit long that day cuz he was down in MRI, etc.

I said to the nurse "I'm calling to check on my husband."
She said "Well...what do you want to know?"
I said "How's he doing tonight?"
She said "He's not dead, if that's what you mean."

Ask me how fast I reported her.


ugh, that just makes my heart ache AND makes me :cursing:!!

when my mom died while in the hospital, we got the call at 1:30 in the morning. the exact words my sister heard when she answered the phone was "your mother has expired. you can pick up her personal belongings after 7:00 in the morning." no words of sympathy at all, no nothing!!! i have been pizzed about this since july 14, 2001. grocery coupons expire... moms don't. :crying:

[incidentally]

That's terrible! I'm so sorry you were treated like that. Can you change doctors?

When my hubby was in ICU after his last stroke, I called one night to just check on him because I wasn't able to visit long that day cuz he was down in MRI, etc.

I said to the nurse "I'm calling to check on my husband."
She said "Well...what do you want to know?"
I said "How's he doing tonight?"
She said "He's not dead, if that's what you mean."

Ask me how fast I reported her.

:ohmy:

I get angry for other people far easier then for myself. I'd have been arrested by the time I got done with her.

[incidentally]

ugh, that just makes my heart ache AND makes me :cursing:!!

when my mom died while in the hospital, we got the call at 1:30 in the morning. the exact words my sister heard when she answered the phone was "your mother has expired. you can pick up her personal belongings after 7:00 in the morning." no words of sympathy at all, no nothing!!! i have been pizzed about this since july 14, 2001. grocery coupons expire... moms don't. :crying:

After hearing these accounts, I feel foolish for being so hurt by my experience.

That is just horrible, sunbunny. :crying:

[sunbunny]

After hearing these accounts, I feel foolish for being so hurt by my experience.

That is just horrible, sunbunny. :crying:

YOUR experience was just as horrible as anyone's, tally!!! there is absolutely no reason for feeling foolish about anything!! :wub:

it's hard for me to read these accounts because i get so sad. :crying:

[Mandysmom]

Good for you, Mandysmom.

Several months ago I had to visit the doctor and I was answering her questions. She came to one question that I didn't understand I started to stammer and become flustered. She threw her hands up and in a very demeaning tone said in a raised voice "CALM DOWN! JUST CALM DOWN". I went from flustered to shocked and literally did not say another word. After the examination, as she started to leave, she stopped turned around and said "Oh, and about your skin problem. There is only one medication that really works. I could write you a prescription but you couldn't afford it", then she turned and walked out.

I barely made it to my car and I sat there and just cried and cried. It still hurts my feelings just to think about it. She treated me like some useless old lady.

Now I hate to go there and get terribly nervous at the thought of it.
That just makes me so mad, Incidentally. You are NOT a useless old lady. :wub:

People like that have no business being in the medical community. Luckily, mama had a wonderful doctor who cared more about people than he did money. He is a dying breed it seems.

You want me to call that old hag up for you? :angry:

[Mandysmom]

ugh, that just makes my heart ache AND makes me :cursing:!!

when my mom died while in the hospital, we got the call at 1:30 in the morning. the exact words my sister heard when she answered the phone was "your mother has expired. you can pick up her personal belongings after 7:00 in the morning." no words of sympathy at all, no nothing!!! i have been pizzed about this since july 14, 2001. grocery coupons expire... moms don't. :crying:

Oh sunbunny, how awful. No compassion at all. That just makes me madder than an old wet hornet. :cursing: Zeep your story did the same.

It seems like in a lot of cases, if you don't have someone there to look after you, you're just on your own.

Shameful the whole lot of them!

[warhorse46]

You brought up a memory of when mama was hospitalized and the nurse came in to draw blood and got nasty with mama when she tried to tell her where they had the best luck.

Mama called me right before I left to go to my child's basketball game and told me because she had hurt her feelings. I called the hospital and finally spoke to the nursing supervisor and told her in no uncertain terms that my mama was not going to be treated that way.

They got it straightened out and it was a good thing, because I would've hated being in jail. :mad:


Nurses like that need to learn that the patients know their body well & to listen to them when they tell you things like that. It will make their job much easier.

[warhorse46]

Good for you, Mandysmom.

Several months ago I had to visit the doctor and I was answering her questions. She came to one question that I didn't understand I started to stammer and become flustered. She threw her hands up and in a very demeaning tone said in a raised voice "CALM DOWN! JUST CALM DOWN". I went from flustered to shocked and literally did not say another word. After the examination, as she started to leave, she stopped turned around and said "Oh, and about your skin problem. There is only one medication that really works. I could write you a prescription but you couldn't afford it", then she turned and walked out.

I barely made it to my car and I sat there and just cried and cried. It still hurts my feelings just to think about it. She treated me like some useless old lady.

Now I hate to go there and get terribly nervous at the thought of it.


I think a very frank talk with that doctor is in order if you cannot change doctors.

[incidentally]

I think a very frank talk with that doctor is in order if you cannot change doctors.

Hi, Warhorse.

I am pretty much stuck at this practice. It seems moot to have a frank talk with a doctor that obviously looks down on me to begin with. I would be afraid it would just welcome further humiliation which I don't think I could take. I've seen her once since then, a follow up and couldn't even look her in the eye. :blushing:

[incidentally]

You want me to call that old hag up for you? :angry:



YES. :laugh:

[Lavenia]

Nurses like that need to learn that the patients know their body well & to listen to them when they tell you things like that. It will make their job much easier.

ITA. One of my first things to say to a patient is "I am here to help you but may I ask what do *you* think is wrong?" And, "Do you have any ideas of what you think may help you?"

It will actually make a nurse's job easier and it sure makes the client feel "heard".

[Mandysmom]

YES. :laugh:

:wub: Honestly, I'd like to kick her butt. lol

[warhorse46]

Hi, Warhorse.

I am pretty much stuck at this practice. It seems moot to have a frank talk with a doctor that obviously looks down on me to begin with. I would be afraid it would just welcome further humiliation which I don't think I could take. I've seen her once since then, a follow up and couldn't even look her in the eye. :blushing:


She has you intimidated & that is not right. Please think hard about talking to her & being very honest about your feelings. Could be she is clueless on how she is coming across to you.

[warhorse46]

ITA. One of my first things to say to a patient is "I am here to help you but may I ask what do *you* think is wrong?" And, "Do you have any ideas of what you think may help you?"

It will actually make a nurse's job easier and it sure makes the client feel "heard".



Absolutely agree. LISTEN to what the patient is telling you.

[CatToy]

Once the nurses let my DH go to the restroom alone after sx and he passed out in there, actually fell and hit his head and banged up his elbows too. :(
We were so upset, and had just been in a horrible accident ourselves, it seemed like one suit was enough at the time. Looking back I wish we had not let it go, I did write and I did call but I did not sue.

They did not use the belt on him as they should have. Too lazY IMO.

I was so angry, he was disoriented and of course tough bird that HE is, he was like Im ok it's ok no worries, see it's just bruising....

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

[juliekan]

Noah, Tally, Sunbunny, Cat, (am i forgetting someone?)

send me their names....:cursing:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--K3X6rptE4

[sunbunny]

Noah, Tally, Sunbunny, Cat, (am i forgetting someone?)

send me their names....:cursing:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--K3X6rptE4

i think her name was Nurse Ratchett!!! :sneaky:

LOLOLOL on the youtube video!!!!! :lol:

[ShyGuy]

I am a quadriplegic and I have spent literally months in hospitals and in spinal cord rehab centers and I would just like to say GOD BLESS NURSES!!