What a wild ride! I have to say, I have loved each and every minute of school. I can't wait to continue on and get my RN. Maybe my BSN so that I can teach. I would like that.
This last class was tough. I finished my externship clinical last Friday. It was the highlight of my school experience. I had the best instructor and I learned so much. It was great to be told, "Go be a Nurse. If you have questions for need help, find me'!!! I was at the most lovely site and everyone was so helpful and friendly. I have never seen a more team oriented place. I took care of all kinds of patients and had an experience that will be with me the rest of my life.
I never thought that I would be interested in being a hospice nurse, but what an experience that was. It was such a privilage to help usher someone out of their mortal existance. This patient was very sweet and kind. He afforded me a very satisfying experiene. Sad though it was, he taught me a great deal about death. The process was difficult, however, he remained strong in his faith and taught me many things. He was a gentle soul who went home to meet his Lord after much suffering and pain. Maybe this is my calling.
I am looking forward to being able to continue my education, find a job and help my fellow man. Corny as it may sound. . . . . . .I love being a nurse and am excited to practice. I am going to live a dream which didn't fully materialize until this very day.
I am proud of my self and I have every right to be. It has been awesome.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Friday, July 31, 2009
Last Rotation!
Well, well, well. I just finished my last rotation, Pediatrics, with a 98%. Now I am moving into the preceptor phase of my education. I have only hit the elusive 80% two times. I am really, really, really concerned about this. I only have three weeks to achieve this goal and perform my 90 hours preceptorship. I NEED a job!
I am waiting for our celebratory lunch. . . .Will have some photos and more to add later. To my BFF and Amy, thanks for yesterday. I needed that!!!!! You are the BEST!
I am waiting for our celebratory lunch. . . .Will have some photos and more to add later. To my BFF and Amy, thanks for yesterday. I needed that!!!!! You are the BEST!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Frustrated Rantings
Okay, I am going crazy! Three instructors for Pediatrics is two too many! My head is spinning and I am feeling overwhelmed. Preceptor is next month and I have yet to hit the elusive 80%. My mind is still boggled by the fact that I am a 4.0 student and have NO CLUE what the heck some of these questions are talking about! A lacking education? Could be.
Six weeks from graduation. I can hardly believe it! This past 15 months has flown by! I am looking forward to being on the other side of my LPN education. Everyone is getting cranky and crabby. I am pretty sure we all need a good long vacation.
Tha, Tha, That's all for now folks.
Six weeks from graduation. I can hardly believe it! This past 15 months has flown by! I am looking forward to being on the other side of my LPN education. Everyone is getting cranky and crabby. I am pretty sure we all need a good long vacation.
Tha, Tha, That's all for now folks.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Time is Winding Down
Well, here I am at the end of the 13th month of my education. Hard to believe so much has happened. Being in nursing school is incredibly stressful in and of itself, but so many different things have happened to me on my journey.
July, 2008: Tim had his left knee replaced. He lost his job, we lost our insurance and only found this our AFTER the knee replacement.
September, 2008: Tim has right knee replaced. Two trips to the ER, one by ambulance, complications including pain, pain, pain. Cars get repossessed, a threatened eviction, turned down by SSI, Absolutely only income is short term disability, very little income. . . . .Struggle, struggle, struggle. Still somehow maintaining my 4.0 GPA.
December, 2008: Kim has pneumonia, misses one day of school, still receives A in class.
March 6, 2009: Tim has two strokes. Hospitalized for four days, no real heavy deficits, no insurance, turned down for Medicaid. Discharged by our family Dr for being unable to pay.
April 9, 2009: Tim has another stroke. Change all meds, do not repeat tests from previous strokes. More memory and cognition loss for him, frustrating for both of us!
May 29, 2009: Tim has severe BP issues, hospitalized for one week, no insurance, no family Dr, Kim still maintaining some kind of normality. Kim starting to lose it. (my sanity, tee hee)
June 6, 2009: Tim has another stroke. This one leaves him disabled on the left side with weakness and numbness, swallowing difficulties, real memory loss, Still no insurance, hospital declares us indigent. (I hate that word!) They pay for all hospital services, whew!!!!!!!!! Still no word from SSI, they take away our Food Stamps and still no medicaid. Kim's stress is building, my flight instinct is in full swing. . . . but the questions is, Where will I fly to?
Forgetting to mention my wonderful Spring Break week. My cousin very generously gives me a trip to visit her in NC. I fly out on March 29 and come home April something or other!. Helps stress level considerably. Biltmore, Mineral Salt Spa, Massage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ahhhhhh!!!!
Home, school, drama, drama, drama, drama. Helping my BFF plan wedding, stress relieving. Reflecting on my life. . . . . .No regrets, except not going to school when I was younger. Enjoying wonderful new friends, girls night out, end of class celebrations, my family, my grand babies. . .
Now here I am at the end of OB. Loved this class!!!!!! This is where I want to nurse. Maternity! It is in my blood. Good clinical although no real clinical site, figure that one out! Great theory instructor. . . . A in class, still 4.0 GPA. I am getting nervous though. What will I do when school is done? Will I be able to get a job? One decision is made, I will be staying right here where my grand babies are. Other living situations will change, but my state of residence will remain the same. Back home again in Indiana!
Summer break! The beach, study for Peds, my last real class before my preceptorship........Gotta pass that practice NCLX with an 80%. No fingernails left, can't reach my toenails. . . . . .
Summer break?????? NCLX break. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
July, 2008: Tim had his left knee replaced. He lost his job, we lost our insurance and only found this our AFTER the knee replacement.
September, 2008: Tim has right knee replaced. Two trips to the ER, one by ambulance, complications including pain, pain, pain. Cars get repossessed, a threatened eviction, turned down by SSI, Absolutely only income is short term disability, very little income. . . . .Struggle, struggle, struggle. Still somehow maintaining my 4.0 GPA.
December, 2008: Kim has pneumonia, misses one day of school, still receives A in class.
March 6, 2009: Tim has two strokes. Hospitalized for four days, no real heavy deficits, no insurance, turned down for Medicaid. Discharged by our family Dr for being unable to pay.
April 9, 2009: Tim has another stroke. Change all meds, do not repeat tests from previous strokes. More memory and cognition loss for him, frustrating for both of us!
May 29, 2009: Tim has severe BP issues, hospitalized for one week, no insurance, no family Dr, Kim still maintaining some kind of normality. Kim starting to lose it. (my sanity, tee hee)
June 6, 2009: Tim has another stroke. This one leaves him disabled on the left side with weakness and numbness, swallowing difficulties, real memory loss, Still no insurance, hospital declares us indigent. (I hate that word!) They pay for all hospital services, whew!!!!!!!!! Still no word from SSI, they take away our Food Stamps and still no medicaid. Kim's stress is building, my flight instinct is in full swing. . . . but the questions is, Where will I fly to?
Forgetting to mention my wonderful Spring Break week. My cousin very generously gives me a trip to visit her in NC. I fly out on March 29 and come home April something or other!. Helps stress level considerably. Biltmore, Mineral Salt Spa, Massage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ahhhhhh!!!!
Home, school, drama, drama, drama, drama. Helping my BFF plan wedding, stress relieving. Reflecting on my life. . . . . .No regrets, except not going to school when I was younger. Enjoying wonderful new friends, girls night out, end of class celebrations, my family, my grand babies. . .
Now here I am at the end of OB. Loved this class!!!!!! This is where I want to nurse. Maternity! It is in my blood. Good clinical although no real clinical site, figure that one out! Great theory instructor. . . . A in class, still 4.0 GPA. I am getting nervous though. What will I do when school is done? Will I be able to get a job? One decision is made, I will be staying right here where my grand babies are. Other living situations will change, but my state of residence will remain the same. Back home again in Indiana!
Summer break! The beach, study for Peds, my last real class before my preceptorship........Gotta pass that practice NCLX with an 80%. No fingernails left, can't reach my toenails. . . . . .
Summer break?????? NCLX break. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Saturday, June 6, 2009
End of Multiple Systems
The big hurrah was last Friday night. We all gathered at my humble home and enjoyed, lasagna, pizza, crazy bread, salad, cheesecake, brownies, and angel food cake. Not to mention soda! I love soda! Coca Cola specially! . . . . . .hmmm, anyway. . .
This time my two lovely daughters were inducted into the Fab 5. We had so much fun. My girls are much closer in age to the rest of the Fab 5. We gossiped, we partied, we celebrated and yes, my friends, we sang karaoke! What a great time. Oh, did I forget to mention the booty dance? Yes, the infamous booty dance was performed right there in my living room by the one, the only Audrey Anne! I must say she was simply marrrrrrvolousssss!!!! No one and I mean no one can do the booty dance like her. I laughed until I cried. Then when I saw the photos, the ones of me, I mean, I CRIED!!!!
Now we only have two classes left, OB and PEDS. I am excited to get these classes out of the way so that I can graduate. It has been the best of times, it has been the worst of times, it has been the most stressful, frustrating and angry times for me. I really can't get into all the ins and outs of what has been going on, however, I promise I will. I truly cannot believe how immature some adults (?) are!
I am still holding on to my 4.0 GPA! go Me!!!! Photos and more in near future!!!!
This time my two lovely daughters were inducted into the Fab 5. We had so much fun. My girls are much closer in age to the rest of the Fab 5. We gossiped, we partied, we celebrated and yes, my friends, we sang karaoke! What a great time. Oh, did I forget to mention the booty dance? Yes, the infamous booty dance was performed right there in my living room by the one, the only Audrey Anne! I must say she was simply marrrrrrvolousssss!!!! No one and I mean no one can do the booty dance like her. I laughed until I cried. Then when I saw the photos, the ones of me, I mean, I CRIED!!!!
Now we only have two classes left, OB and PEDS. I am excited to get these classes out of the way so that I can graduate. It has been the best of times, it has been the worst of times, it has been the most stressful, frustrating and angry times for me. I really can't get into all the ins and outs of what has been going on, however, I promise I will. I truly cannot believe how immature some adults (?) are!
I am still holding on to my 4.0 GPA! go Me!!!! Photos and more in near future!!!!
Monday, May 18, 2009
First Failure
I am devestated! I actually received a failing grade on my first test this month. My instructor keeps saying "don't sweat it", but I do, I do, I DO!!!!! She has been trying to break my 4.0 and she may just be the winner this month. They keep saying it isn't the grade that matters, but the grade does matter to me. I guess I am just an over achieving, OCD student when it comes to my grades. My life experience has taught me sooooo much! Like, I really should have listened to my parents when they kept telling me to apply myself and I was happy to be a A/B student without any effort at all. Live and learn! Ahhh, if only I could go back!
Time is winding down. This is my last actual clinical at a clinical site. Unfortunately for me, they do not have sites for the Reproduction or Peds rotation. Darn it! My favorite (labor and delivery) and no site to practice! Too bad for me. I cannot believe that I will have been in school a year at the first of June! This time has just blown by and I have enjoyed it so, so much. I hate to see the end of the program, but I can't wait until the end of the program! I have some decisions to face head on and make soon. Buggers!
One of my very best friends is getting married in October and I will be her Matron of Honor. I am excited for her. She and the other members of the Fab 5 are just a few of my blessings from going to school. So, busy, busy, busy will be the next, three to five months! Fasten your seat belts, it is going to be a fast, bumpy ride!!!!! Oh, and use your hair products if you don't want your hair to look all yucky at the end of the ride!!!!! lol
Time is winding down. This is my last actual clinical at a clinical site. Unfortunately for me, they do not have sites for the Reproduction or Peds rotation. Darn it! My favorite (labor and delivery) and no site to practice! Too bad for me. I cannot believe that I will have been in school a year at the first of June! This time has just blown by and I have enjoyed it so, so much. I hate to see the end of the program, but I can't wait until the end of the program! I have some decisions to face head on and make soon. Buggers!
One of my very best friends is getting married in October and I will be her Matron of Honor. I am excited for her. She and the other members of the Fab 5 are just a few of my blessings from going to school. So, busy, busy, busy will be the next, three to five months! Fasten your seat belts, it is going to be a fast, bumpy ride!!!!! Oh, and use your hair products if you don't want your hair to look all yucky at the end of the ride!!!!! lol
Monday, May 4, 2009
Endocrine Down, Three to Go
Well, well, well. I finished Endocrine with my 4.0 in tact. Barely. By the skin of my teeth! This was a really difficult month!
To start my final off, there was quite the class room drama! I don't know where people received their information, but it appears that myself and others in the fab 5 are being accused of, let's call it "tattle tailing" for a lack of a better word. We were threatened with physical violence and swore at with one person using the "F" bomb at us! I thought we were all adults in this class, but I was sadly mistaken.
All I have to say about that whole thing is; Glad I only have one more class with that group and that if your conscious is bothering you, accept the guilt, because you probably are guilty! If you read the syllabus and class rules you would see that they are plainly stated. It is not my fault or anyone else's for that matter if you can't follow the rules, choose to cheat, turn in papers late, miss exams or quizzes. Hey, I am responsible only for myself and myself received a 4.0 for which I worked hard for, studied my butt off for. So to you, I say GROW UP!!!!! You know who you are!!!
From the rumor I heard, you have been brought to the attention of the Head of the Program. Not by me. I mind my own business, because I don't have time to mind yours! Also, if you have something to say to me, say to me. I appreciate one person coming to me for the information. My personal rule. . . .Don't say anything about someone behind their back that you would not say in front of them. I am 52 years old and don't have time or the energy in fact to deal with your infancy ways. . . . Advise. . . . GROW UP, MAN UP and quit yer bitching! Accept responsibility for yourself and what you do. Don't mind my business, I am doing just fine with that!
You all can BITE ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ps Photos of the End of Endo Celebration
To start my final off, there was quite the class room drama! I don't know where people received their information, but it appears that myself and others in the fab 5 are being accused of, let's call it "tattle tailing" for a lack of a better word. We were threatened with physical violence and swore at with one person using the "F" bomb at us! I thought we were all adults in this class, but I was sadly mistaken.
All I have to say about that whole thing is; Glad I only have one more class with that group and that if your conscious is bothering you, accept the guilt, because you probably are guilty! If you read the syllabus and class rules you would see that they are plainly stated. It is not my fault or anyone else's for that matter if you can't follow the rules, choose to cheat, turn in papers late, miss exams or quizzes. Hey, I am responsible only for myself and myself received a 4.0 for which I worked hard for, studied my butt off for. So to you, I say GROW UP!!!!! You know who you are!!!
From the rumor I heard, you have been brought to the attention of the Head of the Program. Not by me. I mind my own business, because I don't have time to mind yours! Also, if you have something to say to me, say to me. I appreciate one person coming to me for the information. My personal rule. . . .Don't say anything about someone behind their back that you would not say in front of them. I am 52 years old and don't have time or the energy in fact to deal with your infancy ways. . . . Advise. . . . GROW UP, MAN UP and quit yer bitching! Accept responsibility for yourself and what you do. Don't mind my business, I am doing just fine with that!
You all can BITE ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ps Photos of the End of Endo Celebration
Monday, April 27, 2009
Long Time No Post
Wow! Can't believe it has been so long since I posted a blog! My life has been incredibly chaotic the past two months. Tim had two strokes on March 6th. Spent the month dealing with that and then I got pneumonia. Still going to school as well. I only missed one day due to being sick and still finished the class with an A.
Then Spring Break came along and I took one! I had a wonderful time in Ashville, NC! Spent a week there being treated like a princess. I went to Biltmore House, Gem Mountain, where we found a 2 carat ruby and a 2 carat topaz, then to the Mineral Spa for a soak and a massage! Wonderful! I had a wonderful time, but the week was over too fast. Stayed at a Bed & Breakfast that I would highly recommend. It is the Inn on Main Street. Beautiful old home with original furnishings and wonderful food! I felt more like I was visiting family staying there than at a B&B where I knew no one.
Now, April classes start and we are doing Enodocrine, Elimination and Neuro. . . .Ton's of info to be tested on. My first clinical day was cut short due to Tim having another stroke. He was in the hospital for over a week this time. Think we have things under control, seeing the Neuro Dr today. No physical deficits, but cognitive. . . .Frustrating for all.
Wow! I am worried about my grade this month. I'll pass, but it may not be with my usual 4.0 and I am not the only one! Most everyone in the class is struggling. Even my closest, friendliest competition! Then of course, there is still class Drama. I try to stay away from it. I am just too old to be caught up in all that time wasting energy!
Three more classes to go, then the preceptor ship, if I can pass the NCLEX!
Then Spring Break came along and I took one! I had a wonderful time in Ashville, NC! Spent a week there being treated like a princess. I went to Biltmore House, Gem Mountain, where we found a 2 carat ruby and a 2 carat topaz, then to the Mineral Spa for a soak and a massage! Wonderful! I had a wonderful time, but the week was over too fast. Stayed at a Bed & Breakfast that I would highly recommend. It is the Inn on Main Street. Beautiful old home with original furnishings and wonderful food! I felt more like I was visiting family staying there than at a B&B where I knew no one.
Now, April classes start and we are doing Enodocrine, Elimination and Neuro. . . .Ton's of info to be tested on. My first clinical day was cut short due to Tim having another stroke. He was in the hospital for over a week this time. Think we have things under control, seeing the Neuro Dr today. No physical deficits, but cognitive. . . .Frustrating for all.
Wow! I am worried about my grade this month. I'll pass, but it may not be with my usual 4.0 and I am not the only one! Most everyone in the class is struggling. Even my closest, friendliest competition! Then of course, there is still class Drama. I try to stay away from it. I am just too old to be caught up in all that time wasting energy!
Three more classes to go, then the preceptor ship, if I can pass the NCLEX!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
To Be or Not to Be Professional?
Well, this being the third clinical day of the month, I was feeling like I was going to make it just fine. Went through the day, I got to give two, count them, two injections. That was so exciting! Anyway, we are not allowed to sit, we are on the floor for eight hours. . . . responsible for every aspect of patient care, are you getting the picture? I don't have a problem with the total responsibility, that's what I signed up for when I decided to go to nursing school. For the most part, I like my clinical instructor, she is just brutal. Totally about being professional, refining skills, painting a complete picture. . . all things I know that I am going to benefit from. It is that I pride myself on being professional, unlike some members of the schools PN program. I was completely taken aback when I was told my hair was not professional. So, I suppose that a funky hair color, stringy dirty hair is professional. Well, I am sorry, but. . . . not too me! I am standing my ground and NOT cutting my hair. So, until, I sit in front of "Professional Hair for Nursing" Board, my hair stays as is! It has now become a matter of principle. My rebellion if you like.
Thinking that I only have one more clinical with this instructor, I was feeling optimistic. Next month is a new month, right? Well, kinda. I have this instructor once again. I do not dislike this instructor, in fact, I find this instructor very willing to help, answer questions. . . .I just don't think that our clinical class should have to be there for 12 hours, when the other half of the class is lucky to put in 8 hours at a clinical site. I have done all the rationales, I know, I will benefit in the long run, I know I am gaining the better education, but tell my knees, hips and feet that. They are the ones that hold up my large frame for those hours. Now I have seen how the LPNs at these facilities work. Most of them are NOT on their feet for 8 straight hours.
All I am looking forward to at this point is spring break! I need it, want it and feel like I deserve it. I am so thankful to my benefactor! Who is giving me this much needed vacation!
Thinking that I only have one more clinical with this instructor, I was feeling optimistic. Next month is a new month, right? Well, kinda. I have this instructor once again. I do not dislike this instructor, in fact, I find this instructor very willing to help, answer questions. . . .I just don't think that our clinical class should have to be there for 12 hours, when the other half of the class is lucky to put in 8 hours at a clinical site. I have done all the rationales, I know, I will benefit in the long run, I know I am gaining the better education, but tell my knees, hips and feet that. They are the ones that hold up my large frame for those hours. Now I have seen how the LPNs at these facilities work. Most of them are NOT on their feet for 8 straight hours.
All I am looking forward to at this point is spring break! I need it, want it and feel like I deserve it. I am so thankful to my benefactor! Who is giving me this much needed vacation!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
One for the Money, Two for the Show, Three to Get Ready,
Okay. I accept the fact that Jane can kick my butt! Her first tests are usually whoppers which just pull the rug out from under your feet. She did it to me again, yes, she did. Just when you think you know her and what to expect. . . . You just don't! Grades still haven't been posted and to be truthful, I am greatful. I can still live in my little pretend I am a perfect 4.0 student and have remained such. Enough!
I have written paper after paper this week. The three for Theory are done, finito, handed in! I just finished the Resident Profile about 45 minutes ago and I can't even pull it off the printer. This was so much harder than I had anticipated. The realization I have come to is this, It really doesn't matter what monkey wrench gets thrown in, what homework, how much homework, why the homework, whatever the homework, I LOVE, love, LOVE, going to school!!!!! I wasn't even really all that upset when we had to go to three different clinical sites on Monday. Call me crazy! I just enjoy what I am learning, that I am learning and what ever it takes I WILL do!!! I am so glad at this point, that I do not have a job. It would be totally murderous if I did. I just can't figure out how these others go to school and work! It amazes me and my hat is definitely off to them.
I am trying to stay away from the drama and so far so good. I have found a BBF, (best buddy forever). We are alike, scary I know, but we are each other's cheering section, boosting up section and slap you in the face section when you are out of control!!!! Thanks is all I can say. We will be buddies forever. Thanks for helping me make through some of the roughest spots! I guess I better pull out the old book and packet and really concentrate. I can promise you I will get my butt kicked on the quiz tomorrow! Take that to the bank, put it in your pipe and smoke it or ignore it, it's all up to you!!!!!
I have written paper after paper this week. The three for Theory are done, finito, handed in! I just finished the Resident Profile about 45 minutes ago and I can't even pull it off the printer. This was so much harder than I had anticipated. The realization I have come to is this, It really doesn't matter what monkey wrench gets thrown in, what homework, how much homework, why the homework, whatever the homework, I LOVE, love, LOVE, going to school!!!!! I wasn't even really all that upset when we had to go to three different clinical sites on Monday. Call me crazy! I just enjoy what I am learning, that I am learning and what ever it takes I WILL do!!! I am so glad at this point, that I do not have a job. It would be totally murderous if I did. I just can't figure out how these others go to school and work! It amazes me and my hat is definitely off to them.
I am trying to stay away from the drama and so far so good. I have found a BBF, (best buddy forever). We are alike, scary I know, but we are each other's cheering section, boosting up section and slap you in the face section when you are out of control!!!! Thanks is all I can say. We will be buddies forever. Thanks for helping me make through some of the roughest spots! I guess I better pull out the old book and packet and really concentrate. I can promise you I will get my butt kicked on the quiz tomorrow! Take that to the bank, put it in your pipe and smoke it or ignore it, it's all up to you!!!!!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Week Two Clinical
What a day I've had. First of all we arrive at our clinical site this morning at about 6:50 am and head the nurses station to take report and they freak because State is there doing an inspection. They didn't have it posted, so we had to "stand down", which meant leave the building!
We were told to go to the college, we did. They put us in a room where a class started at 8:30 am and since they had no class room available for us in the morning or the afternoon, we had to drive to Plymouth for our clinical. That drive is ONLY 45 minutes away from the college. There was already a clinical class there, so we got stuck in the "activities" area, with no table to write on. We had to do a mini worksheet on our resident, a bladder and bowel assessment, plus interview them for our Resident Profile paper which is due next Monday. Lucky for some of us, we got to have the patient we had all last month. Things went really well for me today, except I am totally exhausted. We are supposed to be doing 12 hour clinicals, which our instructor holds strictly to, but the two others, don't. They are usually out of there between 1 & 2, us on the other hand are there from 7-7. Rrrggggg.
I do enjoy clinicals for the most part, but this month is hard. We are not allowed to sit down except on our break and lunch. We cannot even leave the building to go to our cars to get our lunch so you better make sure you bring in EVERYTHING you need or you are SOL.
We were told to go to the college, we did. They put us in a room where a class started at 8:30 am and since they had no class room available for us in the morning or the afternoon, we had to drive to Plymouth for our clinical. That drive is ONLY 45 minutes away from the college. There was already a clinical class there, so we got stuck in the "activities" area, with no table to write on. We had to do a mini worksheet on our resident, a bladder and bowel assessment, plus interview them for our Resident Profile paper which is due next Monday. Lucky for some of us, we got to have the patient we had all last month. Things went really well for me today, except I am totally exhausted. We are supposed to be doing 12 hour clinicals, which our instructor holds strictly to, but the two others, don't. They are usually out of there between 1 & 2, us on the other hand are there from 7-7. Rrrggggg.
I do enjoy clinicals for the most part, but this month is hard. We are not allowed to sit down except on our break and lunch. We cannot even leave the building to go to our cars to get our lunch so you better make sure you bring in EVERYTHING you need or you are SOL.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Clinical Day One, Month Nine
Do you ever wonder how some people make it through life? Well, after yesterday, this is a question I have asked myself yet again! Clinicals was l.....o.....n.......g yesterday. I have definately made one decision about my career as a nurse. NO 12 HOUR Shifts for me!!!! Don't like 'em at all. I just can't handle it.
This month, I feel like a real nurse. I have about a million assessments to do, a paper which is a "biography" of a patient at my clinical site, monitor an elopement patient for 12 hours every hour on the hour, give complete care to my assigned patient, change bed linens, briefs, wipe fanny's, butts, noses, feed, dress, shower, . . . . . . well, you get the drift. If I don't break this month, I know I will make it! Funny, I don't see the nurses on the unit doing all this stuff, they sit behind the nurses station and the CNA's disappear into the abyss of the facility, never to be found until they punch out at the end of their shift!
This month's theory class is going to have about 40 people in it. This causes me some concern because, I don't like change, or being around tons of people and if the people I met in clinicals yesterday is any indication at all, I am going to be frustrated, stressed and pissed off allot this month.
Questions I am pondering at this point: Since I have NO patience, will I make a good nurse? This one I actually have an answer for. Yes, why, you ask? Well, I like to think that I have empathy and compassion and I care. It is a fact that I have no patience for annoying, irritating and basically stupid people. Questions #2: Will this be my make it or break it month? Will I be able to keep my mouth shut this month and maintain my 50 points for professionalism? This one is definitely iffy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On this first morning after my clinical for the month of February, I have hope. I have determination and I am going to make the best of this situation, because, I want to be a nurse. I must keep my eye steady on the goal! Yes, I will survive!!!!!!
This month, I feel like a real nurse. I have about a million assessments to do, a paper which is a "biography" of a patient at my clinical site, monitor an elopement patient for 12 hours every hour on the hour, give complete care to my assigned patient, change bed linens, briefs, wipe fanny's, butts, noses, feed, dress, shower, . . . . . . well, you get the drift. If I don't break this month, I know I will make it! Funny, I don't see the nurses on the unit doing all this stuff, they sit behind the nurses station and the CNA's disappear into the abyss of the facility, never to be found until they punch out at the end of their shift!
This month's theory class is going to have about 40 people in it. This causes me some concern because, I don't like change, or being around tons of people and if the people I met in clinicals yesterday is any indication at all, I am going to be frustrated, stressed and pissed off allot this month.
Questions I am pondering at this point: Since I have NO patience, will I make a good nurse? This one I actually have an answer for. Yes, why, you ask? Well, I like to think that I have empathy and compassion and I care. It is a fact that I have no patience for annoying, irritating and basically stupid people. Questions #2: Will this be my make it or break it month? Will I be able to keep my mouth shut this month and maintain my 50 points for professionalism? This one is definitely iffy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On this first morning after my clinical for the month of February, I have hope. I have determination and I am going to make the best of this situation, because, I want to be a nurse. I must keep my eye steady on the goal! Yes, I will survive!!!!!!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Month Eight is Finally Over!
Today was our final for MusculoSkeletal Class. This has probably been the hardest class I have had to date. I had to study! I passed the final with 100% today which gave me a 4.0 in the class. So, thanks to the good Lord above and some sweat equity on my part my GPA is still a 3.9!
After the final, we all hung around class and waited for our grade. Then we had plans to go to Hacienda for a celebration. The Fab 5 plus 2 meet for drinks and lunch. We had the best time. We let our hair down, laughed and celebrated and forgot about books for a few hours. Following are a few of my favorite photos!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Last Week, Month Eight
OMG! I can't beleive I haven't blogged in awhile. I was trying to, but got frustrated because I kept erasing everything by accident. Anyway. SO MUCH DRAMA!!!!!!! I am at my witts end with some of these people.
Some questions I have been pondering and stewing about: Why does drama always follow women? Why do certain people think they are so much better than others? Why do certain people think they deserve special considerations? Enough of that.
This month's clinicals has been one of my better experiences. Great clinical instructor, I learned so much from her. I sure hope I can have her sometime in my next seven months again. I finally feel very comfortable doing my physical assesment, pain assesment, and passing meds. So much fun. You just know when something is a great fit for you and your life! This is mine passion. What a way to be able to give back to so many people and pay it forward.
I will be back in Theory Class with my original class next month. This is very exciting. Although, I have moved on and made additional friends, I wonder how things will fit in now. I will be in Needs of the Older Adult for February. I am excited to continue to move forward with my education. I am in love with learning and discovering new talents that I have. I am evolving in my middle age!
So far this has been an intense class, with lots to learn and the instructor is awesome, but tests are hard!!!!!!!!!!!! I appreciate her test style, because I have learned to critically think while testing. I know that she has helped me tremendously with my confidence in taking the NCLEX. So Jane, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and can't wait to have you continue to teach me. Oh, Wise Woman, teach me all you know. My brain has so many open pages for you to fill!!!
Some questions I have been pondering and stewing about: Why does drama always follow women? Why do certain people think they are so much better than others? Why do certain people think they deserve special considerations? Enough of that.
This month's clinicals has been one of my better experiences. Great clinical instructor, I learned so much from her. I sure hope I can have her sometime in my next seven months again. I finally feel very comfortable doing my physical assesment, pain assesment, and passing meds. So much fun. You just know when something is a great fit for you and your life! This is mine passion. What a way to be able to give back to so many people and pay it forward.
I will be back in Theory Class with my original class next month. This is very exciting. Although, I have moved on and made additional friends, I wonder how things will fit in now. I will be in Needs of the Older Adult for February. I am excited to continue to move forward with my education. I am in love with learning and discovering new talents that I have. I am evolving in my middle age!
So far this has been an intense class, with lots to learn and the instructor is awesome, but tests are hard!!!!!!!!!!!! I appreciate her test style, because I have learned to critically think while testing. I know that she has helped me tremendously with my confidence in taking the NCLEX. So Jane, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and can't wait to have you continue to teach me. Oh, Wise Woman, teach me all you know. My brain has so many open pages for you to fill!!!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Clinical Day #2
A great day was almost had by all!!! We passed meds today and I loved it. It was as if I had been doing it all along. I was all nerved up for absolutely no reason! I tracked my patient down and did not let her out of sight until my mission had been accomplished!
I attended her Movers and Shakers excercise class with her today and I felt pretty good after we were done. This is something I need to do every day. It only took 15 minutes and I felthe
Friday, January 16, 2009
Snow Day
Today, was a snow day. I spent practically every waking moment yesterday studying for the test I was going to have today and school was cancelled. I mean, come on, 14 inches of snow and -20 degrees! What's up with that? lol
All lecture notes have been posted on my e class. I have to go to school tomorrow morning to see if I can print them off. I am not really very adept at studying with notes still on the computer. I love my computer. I have a Toshiba lap top and I love it. I have had some trouble with it, but hey, my son in law is a computer genius. This is so helpful. I am becoming fairly able to stand my ground with the computer.
I sold some of my books in December. I sold about $400 worth of books for $50 bucks. Can you believe it? I should have just kept them, but I needed to buy Christmas gifts for the grand babies. Yep, I am experiencing the whole poor college student thing. I am still waiting to hear about my interview with the hospital last week. They told me it is a long process, but I still would like my instant gratification!
Barely cracked a book all day and I still have my care plan for clinical on Monday to do. I found out my clinical instructor is the toughest one at the college. I am very nervous about this. She is a real stickler, so the story goes. I am hoping to learn allot from her. I think I need another class on time management!
Well, my whole class is freaking out about the test on Wednesday. Glad I am not the only one! Just have to stay one or more steps ahead of the instructor!!!
All lecture notes have been posted on my e class. I have to go to school tomorrow morning to see if I can print them off. I am not really very adept at studying with notes still on the computer. I love my computer. I have a Toshiba lap top and I love it. I have had some trouble with it, but hey, my son in law is a computer genius. This is so helpful. I am becoming fairly able to stand my ground with the computer.
I sold some of my books in December. I sold about $400 worth of books for $50 bucks. Can you believe it? I should have just kept them, but I needed to buy Christmas gifts for the grand babies. Yep, I am experiencing the whole poor college student thing. I am still waiting to hear about my interview with the hospital last week. They told me it is a long process, but I still would like my instant gratification!
Barely cracked a book all day and I still have my care plan for clinical on Monday to do. I found out my clinical instructor is the toughest one at the college. I am very nervous about this. She is a real stickler, so the story goes. I am hoping to learn allot from her. I think I need another class on time management!
Well, my whole class is freaking out about the test on Wednesday. Glad I am not the only one! Just have to stay one or more steps ahead of the instructor!!!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Holy Crap Batman, That Was a Slap In The Face!
Well, it happened and my instructor won. Just this first round though. I took my first test of the month yesterday and it blew me away!! I knew it was going to be an issue when I stuttered on the very first questions. Oh my goodness! Now don't get me wrong, I didn't flunk, in fact, I did pass, however, way below my normal standard of test passing! Let's just say at this very moment, I am tittering on a very fine line between an A and a B. Gasp!
I can understand my instructor's point of view. She wants us to concentrate on the information and learn it and not be so focused on the grade. Well, I have to tell you, I have been physically nauseous since I saw my grade. She told me last month when she was my clinical instructor that she was going to break my GPA wide open. I didn't think I let her get to me, but obviously I did. I am not the only one in my class to have been slapped in the face with our instructors philosophy. I respect her and I know that I am going to learn mega information from her, also, since she will be my instructor next month, I will have her number as well. I will show her and myself that I can do this and do it well!
On a happier note, my interview at a local hospital went very well last week. They told me that hiring is a very lengthy process and I know that to be a fact. However, it still doesn't take care of the anxious feeling that I have in the very pit of my stomach. I really need this job, but so many questions are brought to the surface. Can I do work and school? I guess it will be a YOU HAVE TO DO WORK AND SCHOOL in my present situation.
I have to stop blogging now and hit the books, there is a test tomorrow! Ugh!!!!
I can understand my instructor's point of view. She wants us to concentrate on the information and learn it and not be so focused on the grade. Well, I have to tell you, I have been physically nauseous since I saw my grade. She told me last month when she was my clinical instructor that she was going to break my GPA wide open. I didn't think I let her get to me, but obviously I did. I am not the only one in my class to have been slapped in the face with our instructors philosophy. I respect her and I know that I am going to learn mega information from her, also, since she will be my instructor next month, I will have her number as well. I will show her and myself that I can do this and do it well!
On a happier note, my interview at a local hospital went very well last week. They told me that hiring is a very lengthy process and I know that to be a fact. However, it still doesn't take care of the anxious feeling that I have in the very pit of my stomach. I really need this job, but so many questions are brought to the surface. Can I do work and school? I guess it will be a YOU HAVE TO DO WORK AND SCHOOL in my present situation.
I have to stop blogging now and hit the books, there is a test tomorrow! Ugh!!!!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
New Month!
Here I am in my eighth month of school. Can't believe I only have seven more to go! Whew! These upper classes are killers! My first clinical was awesome. I am excited for this month to unfold. So many new experiences and skills to gain! We pass meds this month! Clinical group is going to be good as the Fab Five are still together! The facility is very nice and I am looking forward to having different patients each week, even though it means a new care plan each week, which is going to be a heavy load on top of theory class and other studying which will need to be done!
I must now vent and move to a tad negative. Why is it that those students who can't seem to make it though school without illegal "colaborating" and not making it to class on time or leaving early seem to take on an air of "holier than thou"? One classmate even has the nerve to say one group talks too much, changes clinical days and then has the nerve, to show up at least four hours late on the first day of school, take up the time when we should be moving forward with the lecture to have things repeated for them? In fact, we actually, got through way more material while this person was not in class and then they have the nerve to say people talk too much and take up "learning" time. WHATEVER!!!!!!!!!!! Don't ask for my help, it ain't coming your way!
On a happier note, I had a great job interview today at the hospital which I seriously would love to get my foot in the door at! The first interview went to well that I immediately had my second interview! The more I am exposed to Health Care, the more in love I fall!
I must now vent and move to a tad negative. Why is it that those students who can't seem to make it though school without illegal "colaborating" and not making it to class on time or leaving early seem to take on an air of "holier than thou"? One classmate even has the nerve to say one group talks too much, changes clinical days and then has the nerve, to show up at least four hours late on the first day of school, take up the time when we should be moving forward with the lecture to have things repeated for them? In fact, we actually, got through way more material while this person was not in class and then they have the nerve to say people talk too much and take up "learning" time. WHATEVER!!!!!!!!!!! Don't ask for my help, it ain't coming your way!
On a happier note, I had a great job interview today at the hospital which I seriously would love to get my foot in the door at! The first interview went to well that I immediately had my second interview! The more I am exposed to Health Care, the more in love I fall!
Friday, January 2, 2009
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!!!!!!!!!!!! Month Eight
Well, Christmas has come and Christmas has gone. The New Year has been rung in! Up next will be my wedding anniversary, my 33rd wedding anniversary. How can that possibly be?
Anyhow, I am soooooo ready to go back to school, yet, I have some trepidation. My first day this month will be clinicals. It will be a 12 hour day with a one hour drive on each end of the 12 hour day. Yes, I am going an hour way from home for clinicals, in January, in Northern Indiana. Crazy!
We will be having a brand new clinical instructor. My last experience with a clinical instructor that was brand new, was not. . . . . . . . .let's say, rewarding. I am now into the real "meat" of my nursing school. This month is Musculo-Skeletal. A schedule change this month, Clinicals on Monday, Theory on Wednesdays and Fridays. I wonder just how much study time I really am going to require. There are lots of thoughts rolling around in my now, somewhat, cobweb filled head. I can't have too much time off, I'm too old!
I am ready to go back to school and have been since, about, oh, say, Monday of this week. I am ready to get on the ball and finish these last eight months. Seven months of classes and one month of preceptorship! Let's go, Kimmie, Here We Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Anyhow, I am soooooo ready to go back to school, yet, I have some trepidation. My first day this month will be clinicals. It will be a 12 hour day with a one hour drive on each end of the 12 hour day. Yes, I am going an hour way from home for clinicals, in January, in Northern Indiana. Crazy!
We will be having a brand new clinical instructor. My last experience with a clinical instructor that was brand new, was not. . . . . . . . .let's say, rewarding. I am now into the real "meat" of my nursing school. This month is Musculo-Skeletal. A schedule change this month, Clinicals on Monday, Theory on Wednesdays and Fridays. I wonder just how much study time I really am going to require. There are lots of thoughts rolling around in my now, somewhat, cobweb filled head. I can't have too much time off, I'm too old!
I am ready to go back to school and have been since, about, oh, say, Monday of this week. I am ready to get on the ball and finish these last eight months. Seven months of classes and one month of preceptorship! Let's go, Kimmie, Here We Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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