Kim's Big Nursing School Adventure

The End of my LPN Education

2009-08-25T11:07:00.003-04:00

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.

Last Rotation!

2009-07-31T11:33:00.002-04:00

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!

Frustrated Rantings

2009-07-17T15:35:00.002-04:00

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.

Time is Winding Down

2009-06-25T11:59:00.003-04:00

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

End of Multiple Systems

2009-06-06T14:38:00.003-04:00

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!!!!

First Failure

2009-05-18T14:17:00.005-04:00

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

Endocrine Down, Three to Go

2009-05-04T12:48:00.007-04:00

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

Long Time No Post

2009-04-27T13:35:00.002-04:00

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!

To Be or Not to Be Professional?

2009-02-17T17:14:00.004-05:00

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!

One for the Money, Two for the Show, Three to Get Ready,

2009-02-12T16:08:00.002-05:00

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!!!!!

Week Two Clinical

2009-02-09T20:05:00.005-05:00

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.

Clinical Day One, Month Nine

2009-02-03T07:45:00.003-05:00

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!!!!!!

Month Eight is Finally Over!

2009-01-30T16:56:00.004-05:00

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!

Last Week, Month Eight

2009-01-26T22:30:00.002-05:00

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!!!

Clinical Day #2

2009-01-19T23:24:00.001-05:00

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

Snow Day

2009-01-16T23:14:00.002-05:00

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!!!

Holy Crap Batman, That Was a Slap In The Face!

2009-01-15T08:31:00.003-05:00

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!!!!

New Month!

2009-01-08T23:28:00.004-05:00

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!

On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!!!!!!!!!!!! Month Eight

2009-01-02T21:58:00.003-05:00

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Month Seven Finale!

2008-12-23T12:05:00.002-05:00

Well, month number seven is finally over! Thank goodness! I am so glad to be in my Christmas break! Yesterday was incredibly maddening. I can't believe that a whole room full of supposed adults can bicker and fight like third graders. In fact, it was so bad that the instructor stopped the review for the final (we were playing Family Feud) and left the room! Lordy, lordy! I am stunned! and sooooo angry! Then to top it off, I did horrible, the worst I have ever done on my final! I still have an A in the class, but I am really, really irritated.

I almost want to sit out a month and go back with my original class. I hope that the next eight months will be tolerable. To top it off, the holdiays and here and my financial situation is not good. I can't handle any more stress, I feel a breakdown coming on soon. I am going away for spring break and I am ready for the trip. Thanks to the generosity of a family member.

I don't even want to go into the problems with the in law situation. I am tired of doing the right thing and having to take it up the whazoooo! Maybe, I need to be bad. Nasty, even mean! Did I mention before I went on the anti depressants, I loved being mean? Well, believe it or not, I did.

Enough! It's all about the attitude! Right? I can do it, I will do it!!!!! Tawanda!!!!!!!!!!!

Week Three Month Seven

2008-12-18T21:46:00.002-05:00

Today, we finished up our last official clinical day of Fundies III. I really did enjoy fundies this year. I am becoming so much more confident with my skills. I barely shake and shiver while being watched. Today, I was given leadership responsibilities and was rewarded quite nicely by my instructor. (with kind words on my eval)

Tomorrow is my last quiz for the month and then on Monday my last exam. I can't believe this month has flown by so quickly. I think I just need to sit down and take a few deep breaths and try to remember all that has been crammed into my brain these past seven months. Soooo much information. Maybe it is overload, I don't know. Tuesday is our final exam. Then it is Christmas break. Wooooo Hoooooo!

Next month I am moving on to 12 hour clinicals and two class days per week. I will have to really use my two days for study, research and everything else that has to be done. You know like, laundry, cooking, cleaning. . . Jeez! I don't know how the younger ones with children, a job and spouse or significant other keeps this pace. Maybe it helps that they are younger! I don't think I am doing too bad keeping up with the young ones academically though!! I am carrying an A right now. I hope I can keep it!

Until next time, keep the books open and the information in!

Why am I so Pissed off?

2008-12-15T22:11:00.003-05:00

I have asked myself this question many times. If you read my blog you know this. I shouldn't care when people don't show up for class, come in late, leave early, what ever! I guess it makes me feel like school is not a priority. Well, it is for me. I have to have this education to make adifference in the lives of those who I will come in contact with, but mostly for me. I want to do more than lend a listening ear. I want to make a difference! I think it pisses me off too, because I am paying for their education in a round about way and can't afford to make my payments! This year should be different though. I should be able to receive some Pel grants. I feel like I am in a pressure cooker all the time. I know I am not the only student that feels that way, but. . . .In fact one of my classmates has tons more to worry about than I do. Prayers go out to ya, babe!!

I love the holidays and I am looking forward to Christmas break. I plan to spend alot of time with the grandbabies. They are my life. I want them to be proud of their old grandma for going back to school to make a difference. I love nursing. I even have suprised myself, I can do the nursing home thing. It is hard, but when I see the difference I can make in a resident's life, it makes me feel all kinds of good. I made stupid mistakes on my exam today, that just shows you what having a crappy attitude can do. I did good, but not my usual standard. I guess it is time to pick my self up by the boot straps and shake it off. No more Drama!!!

That's my new thing, NMD!!! No More Drama!!!!!!

Ho Hum!

2008-12-15T22:02:00.002-05:00

School is going well. I love school. However, I get so irritated at those who don't seem to take it very seriously. I ask myself, why does this bother me? I guess it is because, I am paying for their education and can't afford to pay for mine. My tax dollars at work!

I made some stupid mistakes on my exam today. I still did well, but that is beside the point. I just was in an "I don't want to mess with anything mood" today and it showed on my exam. I am sooooooo pissed off and I am not sure exactly why or if it really has anything to do with school. Maybe it is because it is the holidays, which I love, love love! I know it is not about the gifts, but the giving, but I like to be the giver, not the givee!

I just have to be so incredibily thankful for still being able to be in class. The next three months are going to be the same: 12 hour clinicals on Monday's, then class on Wednesday's and Friday's. It is good to know the schedule and where I will be for clinicals at least in January. I am a little apprehensive about going to a new place. Plus, I will have to drive about 45 mins each way and winter in Indiana can pretty awful! That pretty much makes a 13-14 hour day. Whew!!! I guess that is just what is going to be like "In the Real World"! Classmates, you know what I mean!!!! lol

Busy week, lots to learn, lots to do, lots to study! It is trach week!!!! WoooooHoooooooo!!!!!!!

OWTH!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-12-11T16:37:00.002-05:00

I got it!!!!!!!!!! I sat down to study for my quiz tomorrow and it has math on it. Ugh!!! I knew that this would be my downfall quiz. I was devestated. I braved the Dosage Calculation Text and gave it a whirl! I did it!!! Out of 20 problems that I tried, I got 19 right! I am afraid to try more for fear the knowledge I though I gained was just a fluke! Tremble, tremble.

Clinicals were good today. I did my physical assesement and felt way more confident and I think, I actually did it in 10 minutes, okay, maybe 15 but wooooo hooooooo! I am getting really nervous about moving on to the final months of my education. Will I be able to to do it? Can I handle a 12 hour clinical? These are questions that I am comtemplating. It's the holidays and I have not put up one Christmas Decoration, let alone the tree. I just can't think about anything else, except school, a 4.0 and not letting anyone down. I really can't stand to let anyone down. I actually was in tears yesterday thinking I had let Ms Tish down, by being late from lunch. I hate being late anyway and we had so much fun. A release I think we all needed. Any how and Any who, I did math!!! I didn't let it intimidate me. I hope I can keep this sense of I got it!!!!!!!

I just have to say it, I LOVE school!!!!!

What a Day!

2008-12-10T17:04:00.003-05:00

My goodness! I have not laughed as hard as I laughed today in sooooo long! I really needed that lunch with fellow classmates, JJ, HC, AD, and S. Wow!!! When we got back, part of the lecture was how we need to take care of ourselves, relax, have fun! We were really ahead of that game, huh? There just may be a new career in my future. See one of the above classmates to see if they will tell you, because, it is my little secret! It might involve, oh, never mind!

We had skills check offs today! I am now qualified to not only, insert a nasogastric tube, feed you through it, medicate you through it, irrigate it, and take it out, but I can insert a Foley cathetor to releive, well you know what a Foley does! I will be the fully trained package in just a few short months! Dig me!

I was thinking though, why do I let little things bother me? Why should I care if someone does not come to class, or leaves early or what ever? It just does, maybe it is because I am an older student and I have more life experience than most of my classmates. We are supposed to be a cohesive (sp?) team (our class), but I just don't feel like I can trust several of my classmates. I don't see a whole lot of commitment. The majority, yes, I do and I have worked with most of them, but, will they really be there when I need them? This is just one of the questions I ask myself. It brings me to the old saying, "Actions speak louder than words, or Your actions speak volumes!"!!! I want to be known as the kind of person that people KNOW they can depend on, trust and that I am a person of my word.

While I am on the subject, please don't speak for me, if I have not given you permission to. It has come to my attention, that someone spoke for me regarding something, that I don't believe to be true. Therefore, this person spoke about my feelings falsely. I have been quite happy with my education and have not really had any serious problems that I have not addressed when necessary. I am a big girl, and I will handle my own problems and voice my own opinions! Thank you any way! Evidently, this is what the whole hoopla was about on Monday. And, by the way, I don't have any more time to waste on Drama. Please don't waste my time with it especially when I am in class!!! Thanks!

Still loving every minute of school! Clinicals tomorrow!!!! yea!!!!!!!!!!!! And, girls, thanks for the memories!!!!!

OWTH!!!!!!!!!!

2008-12-08T19:14:00.003-05:00

Just for those of you that don't know, OWTH, means, OH, WHAT THE HECK!!! Today was a very strange day. No, not because it is Monday, duh! I was sitting in class, minding my own business when in walks someone, Tells me to tell the person behind me that Karma comes around. I was dumbfounded. OWTH! I said, "excuse me" they repeated it. I was floored. I had no idea what that was all about. The person behind me, of course was immediately pissed off. What a way to start a day!

We had our first exam today! I missed one. Dag nab it. I should have went with my gut. Why don't I ever listen to my gut? Well, I do, when it's glurbling! Any way, I enjoyed lecture today. We are discussing culture and religion. Subjects you probably really should not discuss, however, Ms Tish handled it well and I got on my soap box only a couple of times. I know, I was surprised too!

Can't wait to see what happens the rest of the week!

What a Refreshing Change!

2008-12-04T20:32:00.002-05:00

Clinicals this month are like night and day! I had such an enjoyable knowledge filled day! I find myself anxious for next weeks clinical day!

Part of the great fun is driving to and home from clinicals with my classmate and friend, HC! She is so funny and I so enjoy spending time with her. She is smart and fun to be around! I haven't laughed so hard in so long! I was worried about needing to have the "Detrol Conversation" with my Dr!!!

Clinicals are at the same place this month as they have been the last two months. I like that! I can follow my patient's progress. I can actually see and understand how important labs are in following the patients progression on the meds. I really feel like it is beginning to put this together. I know I have a long road to go down yet, but I am excited to take the walk, or run, or following the yellow brick road to my final goal. I can feel the excitment starting to gurgle in my stomach, oh wait, that must be the vegetable soup I had for dinner! :0) I am excited to continue down the pathway to my goal.

Soooo much to learn, do study for. My eyes are giving out and I still have three more drugs to list on my care plan and study for the quiz tomorrow. I don't think I am going to make it. I have put three hours on the care plan already. I guess I will just hit the sack early and get up a couple hours earlier and get done what has to be done!!! What ever it takes, what ever the cost, I CAN do this and I WILL!!!

Month Seven or Fundies III

2008-12-03T18:49:00.005-05:00

Yea!!!!!!! Someone loves me! I am now in Fundies III and so far loving every minute! Today, was awesome! I got to put in a nasogastric tube! It was so cool, even if it was only on a dummy named Rue Paul! (that is a story I will have to tell you in person!) Believe me, it's funny!

Tomorrow is our first clinical day for Fundies III. I have met our instructor and she is a hoot! I can't wait to work with her and learn from her! I heard through the grapevine, she is a military nurse! I bet she has stories to tell!!! I'd love to hear 'em!

Our theory instructor is great! I really like her! So far on my first quiz, I got a 100%. What a way to start the month. Woooooooo Hooooooo! We will have two quizes a week, Wednesday and Fridays, and then an exam on Monday! This is going to be another short month due to the Christmas Holiday. Then we have Christmas Break. I am looking forward to that, however, I really didn't know what to do with myself when I was off four days in a row! That's a shame, huh? Half of our class will go to Clinicals in Elkhart and the other in Plymouth. Those going to Plymouth will be with our Theory instructor.

I'm still here, still having a ball and loving every minute of every day!

Month Six, Finale!

2008-11-27T20:32:00.002-05:00

Well, month six is over, officially. There may not be a month 7-15 for me now. My financial aid is used up and I don't have $1,000 to get into school for the month of December, and so on. I am very distressed about this.

On a happier note, I finished the class with 1000 points or 100%!!! I am so proud of myself. This was a very challenging month and I did it! I was so looking forward to Fundies III. I hope that I will be able to continue my education and receive my PN degree/diploma.

I met the Fundies III instructor for clinicals. I like her. I think she is no nonsense and will really be an awesome teacher. I would have been going back the nursing home where I had fundies I & II. At least I could have kept up with my old residents.

Please pray that I will be able to get this mess straightened out and be able to continue school. Last night the hot water heater went out. What next?

Thanksgiving was wonderful. I spent the day with my family and my youngest daughter and her husband put on a pretty nice spread! I enjoyed my grandchildren and even had fun with the Redi Whip and a few little fingers. Let's just say, Bridget, Emma, and Kyle really like Redi Whip!!! I think at first their mom wasn't really happy with me, but I had fun!!!

Tag, I'm it?

2008-11-25T09:02:00.002-05:00

Okay, I am new to this and it is really going to mess up my school only blogging, but oh well. It seems to be a fun thing to do.

The Rules:

1. Link to the person who tagged you. Katie
2. Post the rules on your blog. (that is what you are reading now)
3. List six (6) random things about your self.
4. Tag six (6) people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a message on their blog.

Six Random Things About Me.

1. I went to college at age 51, to nursing school, no less
2. I love Giraffes.
3. I like younger men.
4. I love my grandchildren more than life itself.
5. I too, am a published author.
6. I am a great cook. (Ask my son in law, John)

I now tag, Erika, Angie, Annie, that's all the other bloggers I know. Sorry!

OMG!! I Can't Believe It!!!!

2008-11-21T17:50:00.003-05:00

Just so you know, OMG + oh my goodness! I am so glad we had our "day in court" today. I just hope that it makes a difference for the next class! I feel better to have voiced my opinion, so much for keeping a low profile and flying under the radar! I hate feeling like a snitch, but sometimes you just have to do what you just have to do! Anyway, it's over and I'm glad, however, I will have another new Fundies Clinical Instructor next month!

Next weeks schedule goes like this: Monday, Exam over FNS chapters 27 & 31, Pharmacology chapters from third week, it's like 6. All about drugs, drugs, drugs. No, it isn't a fun thing to have to remember. I expect, however, if I had been a bit more diligent about completing my drug cards, they could have been a big help. (Duh, you think?) I am just tooooo tired. This seems to be the same affliction that a number of my classmates are going through as well! Enough crying on your shoulder!

On a happy note, I received a 100% on my Quiz today! I learned some math, thanks to my classmates, Shelly and Amy. Had a run in with another classmate. You know, don't rush the instructor when class goes until 4 pm and you have to leave early for, oh let's see, what's the excuse this time? I have just got to let this crap roll off my back. I pretty much just concentrate on the issues at hand and that is to pass all my classes and be on my way to a great career as a nurse.

I have learned that if you show your patients that you really do care, and I do, that things seem to go much smoother for you and your patients feel on top of the world. I try to make my patient feel like she is the only resident in the nursing home and that really doesn't take much effort. What satisfaction I feel, when I give her a back rub, foot massage, hand massage or just listen to what she has to say and I can tell that I have made her feel special and important. I try not to think of her as a patient but as a resident. Even though she is in a nursing home, that is her home!!! Many tell me I will be a good nurse and you know what? I am starting to believe it too!!!

What a Day!!!

2008-11-19T20:46:00.002-05:00

So, guess what happens when you have a latex allergy and you touch a band aid and then your face? Yep, you guessed it! I puffed up like a blow fish and broke out in monster hives. Ms Nancy and Ms Leomi kept asking me if I was having trouble breathing (I was a smidge), but I just told them no. One of the other students in the other class was sent out for Benedryl for me and they had me take two, and man, I was out!!! I could barely keep my eyes open and I did fall asleep during our lunch break. I think that my latex sensitivity is getting worse. I am going to have to be extremely careful. I wonder, if there is a profolactic treatment for it?

This was a rough day. We had lecture and presentations. The hardest thing was that the Director of the PN program was supposed to come in to talk to us and we waited for over an hour and a half and she was a no show. However, she was in talking with our clinical instructor, so I don't know what came of that. I am really nervous about going to clinicals tomorrow.

I will fly under the radar as much as possible, keep my head down, complete my tasks, do my physical assesment and call it good. My care plan is done for tomorrow and I am so glad. This has not been an enjoyable clinical month. Rumor has it next month we have Ms Tish. I am really looking forward to her. I have heard she is really a great instructor and she will be our clinical instructor as well. I think we may be a few students short next month. There a couple who are pretty iffy about passing this month. Not me, I am still a 100% student! Go Me!

I have made some great friends in this class. I am so glad. We seem to really click and that so helps make the days go by fast and fun.

Week Three Month Six

2008-11-18T17:25:00.002-05:00

Well, well, well. I did my drug presentation today and was glad to have it over. I didn't do a great job, but it was ok. I presented Ultram XR. An all day pain relief med. I do enjoy doing presentations and talking in front of a crowd. I guess, I am a show off!

The test on Monday went well. I got a 96 which is okay. I am feeling a bit off my game this week. I keep thinking that one day down and only two until clinicals again. I am just not looking forward to that. I will make the best of it and try to stay under the radar. What she has done to some of my classmates is not cool. I guess, (they keep saying) that we are supposed to talk to the Director of the PN program, but so far that hasn't happened. I don't like to say bad things about my school, but there are alot of areas they would really improve.

I like Pharmacology. It is really interesting to see how the different drugs do, their benefits, their side effects (which can be pretty scarey!). I guess, we really just have to weigh the benefits vs the effects when taking any drug. So far, I have been pretty lucky and not had too many of the side effects. Anyway. . . . .

Tomorrow we will do wound care! Yea!!!!!!!!!!! Today's lecture was about the Operative Patient. Intresting things, I can't wait to be hands on with all this stuff and not just in the nursing home. I wish we were in a more acute situation. Not that long term is bad, but I would love to see a bit faster pace. I am looking forward to seeing my patient this week. I will do my assesment and I must find a fingernail brush for her. . . .I almost forgot!

Till next time!

Back to School As Usual, Until Next Thursday, That Is!

2008-11-15T12:06:00.002-05:00

As a friend reminded me, "this to shall pass". I really tried hard not to get so upset about the whole clinical fiasco. In fact, I was feeling pretty proud of myself for not getting all worked up, binge eating and having my brain blow right out of the top of my head from my blood pressure being stroke level! Then, I went to school yesterday. Of course things had to be rehashed and talked about and you guessed it! I lost it. Only, not like a usual out of control thing, I kept in cool, left the room gathered my thoughts, and came back. I am proud of that!

We will see what happens on Monday when our class meets with the Director of the PN program. No matter what, I still have one more clinical class and I intend to make the best of it. I will do my physical assessment and blood sugars, vitals and all that and just hope for the best. I can do it, I know! I just wish I felt more confident about BPs though.

Since I seem to have the intestinal flu today, I am going to take it easy, study for my test on Monday and finish my presentation for Tuesday and work on drug cards, . . . again. Those things are beginning to be a pain in my kiester! If I wasn't so competitive, I would not do them. Oh, what am I saying, of course I would. I always have to do what is right, what is expected and then try to go above and beyond. Yes, Virginia, I am an over achiever. What can I say?

It's Official! I hate Fundies II Clinicals!

2008-11-13T16:35:00.003-05:00

Okay. I have a few questions that I feel are worthy of answers. 1. Why as an instructor would you walk away from a student who just asked you a question? 2. When a student asks for help, why would you cop an attitude and make them feel 6 inches tall? 3. Why, as an instructor, would you want to snap your fingers, rush, demean your student who is performing a task for only the second time and make them feel like their whole day was for naught? 4. Why would I want to ask you questions and learn from you, when clearly, all you can think about is the precious time table you have set for yourself and all of us? 5. Just who do I have to talk to to make my very, very, very upset self most clear that THIS IS NOT A LEARNING ENVIRONMENT that has been going on, on Fundies II clinical day?

Yes, we are all adults, yes we are students and should come prepared, but when you have not worked with Lab results, medications or physical assessments and you have questions, why would you be so incredibly rude &/or unwilling to take a minute to LISTEN and help me learn to be the best nurse that I can be? Isn't that your job?

If I were a quitting person, today would most definately be my LAST day of nursing school, however, I refuse to let someone, get in the way of my goal and my goal is to be a Nurse. I have studied hard, prepared for all my classes for what? To be given an unsuccessful? To be graded as a Fail?No way, Jay!!! I have and am doing my part, it is YOUR part that is lacking!!! If I do not pass this clinical month, I will be one of many very UNHAPPY nursing students!

On a happier note! I really enjoyed my patient. I really made a difference in her life today. That is what nursing is all about. I made her feel like the most important resident at that nursing home today, and you know what? She was! She was my most important resident. All in all, I would say, I had a very successful day, wouldn't you?

One more day to go! I will continue to pray for guidance, understanding and the ability to KEEP my somewhat hot temper and my BIG mouth quiet!!! My momma always said, "If you can't something nice about someone, say NOTHING at all"!!!

A toast to tomorrows quiz and fun lab day!!! Ahhhhhhh, something to look forward to!

Week Two Month Six

2008-11-10T20:51:00.004-05:00

Month Six? Wow! Where have the past five months gone? Any how, I am still loving every minute of school. I was very naughty and didn't crack a book all weekend. I am getting myself behind the eight ball leaving things to the last minute. I had to give myself a good talking to to get back in the game.

Today was my first exam and I was pleasantly surprised with a 100%. Lucky for me! I all most feel like I didn't deserve it because I didin't study like I should have. So. . . I am cracking the books again and set up a schedule to complete everything on time. I completely forgot about my very unusual clinical day last week. This is a new instructor and I guess we all have things to learn. I didn't even look at my care plan. Shame, Shame on me.

I am loving my instructor this month as well. Ms Nancy is awesome. She is very down to earth and I think we are some what alike. I wonder if that is a good thing? She just makes me feel like I can do anything I put my mind to without really saying anything. I like that she lets us work in groups so we can feel the team work and put our heads together and learn from each other!

Looking forward to wound care this week in the lab! Oh, I must not forget my medical math and dosage calculations! My favorite, NOT! I do like how this program is going. I see the logic in the way to do classes, the plan is working. What is it my husband always says? Plan the work and Work the Plan! Yea!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gotta Get This Off My Chest

2008-11-07T21:53:00.002-05:00

Okay. I just have to blog about this. I am very frustrated by a few things about school and if I don't spill it, it is going to start to erode my attitude.

First of all, this is a very expensive education I am getting. Since I am paying about $295 per credit hour, I want every bit of class time, every bit of my instructors time and talent. What I don't want is back biting, people leaving their cell phones on, even if they have their phone on vibrate, they jump up, leave the class room and disrupt class. I hate that people stroll in to class 1, 2, 3 hours late and there are no consequences, people who do not have the commitment to come to class each and every time class is being held. It irritates me that these students, feel the need to be know it alls, and pretend that they have all the answers, when clearly they don't. They are not fooling anyone and baby, I know it will all come out in the wash in the end, but. . . I still find this incredibly rude and irritating. Don't sit by me to see my answers, don't ask me what I got for whatever question you don't know. You know what? I studied and I am earning my degree, NOT YOURS!!!!! And please, when the instructor is talking, they are talking for a reason, so SHUT UP!!!!!

We are all adults in these classes and I know we are making our own choices, but, you know what, when your choice starts to interfer with my choice, I have a MAJOR PROBLEM! I respect you, please do the same for me. I work hard for the grades that I get. I study, study, study. I study constantly. So, unless we are working in a group or doing a pop quiz where we are allowed to collaberate, don't ask me the answers that I have. They are mine, not yours.

"I guess that is all I have to say about that!!!!!" Forrest Gump

OOPS!

2008-11-07T19:18:00.002-05:00

Forgot to post a blog with the link! Please check out this site! She does awesome clothes for the kiddies. My oldest daughter loves this site! Thanks!

GrosgrainStore.com Grand Opening & Giftcard Giveaway!!!!!!!!

2008-11-07T19:17:00.000-05:00

GrosgrainStore.com Grand Opening & Giftcard Giveaway!!!!!!!!

Month Five/Fundementals I

2008-11-04T18:13:00.003-05:00

Well, it's over! Month five, fundies I. I loved it! I finished the month being number two. Number one beat me by .2 of a point. My final received an A and I received an A for the class, giving me a 4.0 for the month and an accumulated 3.8 GPA. I believe I am on my way to the Dean's List once again for this quarter! My final care plan received an excellant, that's a good thing! I will miss being with Ms Leomi.

Yesterday, I started Fundies II. I really like Ms Nancy as well. I have been very fortunate with my instructors. There have only been a couple that I wasn't really fond of. This is going to be a tough class. I will have to work at it every moment I can in order to keep up! There is sooo much to do! This schedule is a killer too.

I am enjoying my new friends in this class as well. I have three that I really like and relate to. This will be a good month, but one full of lots of study and homework! I am looking forward to moving ahead!

One Fundamentals Class Down, Two to Go!

2008-10-31T16:59:00.003-04:00

Today was my last clinical day for this month of Fundies I. I am glad it is over. My goodness, this month flew by! Nothing spectacular or really funny happened to me today. Sorry, we'll have to wait and see what happens next week.

I finished the class with a 4.0!!! Go me!!!! I am so glad. I worked hard for that A. I really did enjoy my first clinical experience. There is soooooo much to learn. Each month, I think I feel a bit more confident that I can do this. So many people are pulling for me. I really appreciate all the support that friends and family are giving me. Each month, I am in awe of how much our Instructors care about their pupils. I am really glad that I decided to attend Brown Mackie!

Next month is Fundamentals II. Pharmacology and Intravenous Infusion Therapy. I can't wait for this class to start! I do feel smarter and. . . . . . . I am doing Blood Pressures like a pro now. I don't know why I went so crazy before. I guess my son in law is right, I love drama! (not)

Tonight, I am taking the night off! I am going to a Bon Fire with my grandbabies. It's Apple Cider and Doughnuts!!!! Mmmmmmmm!!!! I love Halloween!!!!

Ten months to go!!!!

Can You Hear It? No, I Don't!

2008-10-29T21:40:00.005-04:00

Okay! I can't believe I am two days away from finishing Fundamentals I, and I have to pass BP and I can't hear it! I must be going deaf! Everyone else has passed, even the one in the class who has never taken BP before and I CAN'T hear the darn boom, boom, boom!!!!

When I took my last one with Ms Leomi, I was dead on the diastolic, and two off on the systolic. I wish she would have passed me off, but she wants me to do a few BPs and then pass off the skill again. I CAN do this, I WILL do this!!!!!

Tomorrow, is the final exam. Theory has been pretty easy for me this month. I checked the schedule for next month and all those that started the PN program with me, who couldn't start fundies this past month are starting Nov 3rd. I miss those friends. My study group. This class has great people in it and I have made friends and that's great, I am still on target to graduate next August. Only 10 more months to go.

Pray for me!!!! I want to sign off with someone with a LOUD boom, boom, boom!!!

Last Week of Classes for October

2008-10-27T18:37:00.003-04:00

I can't believe how fast the month goes when you are taking one class per month! Today, was my last "test" for the month and I got a 97%. I'll take it! We have only a total of three chapters to go through this week and lots of skills to be signed off on. Wednesday, we have our last quiz and then on Thursday, our final. I am finding that I have alot less test anxiety because of the way I study now. I hope my next instructor will lecture the way Ms. Leomi did. I just highlighted what she stressed in lecture, went through the chapter and out lined the info and bam! Great grades on quizes and tests. I also did my class presentation today. Call me crazy, but I like to give presentations and talks at Church!

I am feeling incredibly tired today. I think my brain is starting to scream for a break! We were let out of school early today and I stayed over an hour and outlined one of the chapters we went over today. It is quiet at school and I seem to be able to get so much more completed. I also got the paperwork for my CNA certification today. That is going to cost me about $60, but then I will be able to get a job as a CNA. I have decided that I will just continue with school, working part time and go for my BSN. Three of my instructors have told me they think I would be a great teacher. I think I would enjoy teaching as well. We will see. My dream has been to be a Mid Wife. Lots more schooling!!!!

That's it for now. I am going to crash!!!!

Clinical Experience #2

2008-10-24T18:42:00.002-04:00

Today, was a crazy day! I was so looking forward to working with the same client I had last week, alas, it was not to be. I guess I just am going to have to learn how to be flexible! I am more accepting of change and I am really trying to stay positive. My family knows, that I can be pretty negative. Going to school to be a nurse, has changed me in many ways. Firstly, I think I am learning to be more tolerable of the elderly. Yes, Mom, I am learning. Secondly, there really is a circle of life. These people at the facility I am doing my clinicals at really are in different parts of the circle. More toward the completion of the circle. I spoke with my new client today extensively today and found that I could learn much from her by just listening. Most of these people just want someone to listen and care. Fortunately, my client's family visits every week. Many families don't visit. How sad.

Anyway, I was alot more hands on today. I made beds, with perfect hospital cornors, I might add! I took temps, respirations, pulses, worked on care plans, took people potty, wiped bums, and made a difference in several people's lives today. Needless, to say, I was busy, busy, busy. Ms. Leomi, said that I wasn't so fast zipping around today! I made an effort to be much more aware of what was going on around me. My client had to go into the hospital today. My heart broke for her. She was so upset. I am hoping that she will be back to her home next Friday when I go back to the facility for my last clinical day for this month. I can't believe we are going into week four of this month. Time flies when you are in this excelerated program. Five months down (well, almost) and only ten more to go!!!

Like McDonalds, I'm Lovin It!!!!

Connection!

2008-10-24T18:27:00.003-04:00

Today, I was reunited with my best friend all through elementary, jr high and high school. It was so wonderful to see her again. I have not seen her in about 23 years. I have so many wonderful memories of the crazy, fun and totally off the wall things we did. I am hoping to keep in touch now that we have reconnected. Our lives are so different now, we don't have a whole lot in common any more, except our memories. I didn't realize how much I missed her until I saw her today. What a terrific gift from my Heavenly Father! Thank You!

Third Week of Fifth Month

2008-10-21T20:21:00.002-04:00

I can't believe how fast the month flies by when you have one class per month. This has been a busy learning month for me. I did enjoy my first day of clinicals despite all the craziness that happened.

This week's test was a hard one. I really didn't do as well as I would have liked. When will I learn, 1) don't change my first answer, 2) read the question twice before answering, and 3) don't read too much into the question?! This is going to be a busy week for me. I have to make up several of the sections of the care plan from last week, since I couldn't get my client's chart last week. The part of the care plan I was able to complete, I got a good mark on! Yippieee! I love paper work!

I have a quiz tomorrow and one on Thursday. We will be working in the lab both days as well. Then, Friday, and clinicals again! I am sure there will be something funny to share!

Ms Leomi

2008-10-19T09:38:00.000-04:00

I love Ms Leomi! She is an awesome teacher and you can tell she really enjoys teaching. I am sure she will be a great mentor for me. She gets really excited when she can see that "learning has taken place". It makes me want to get it, just to see her so pleased!

She has a couple of sayings that I love! They make me laugh and when she uses them, you know it is knowledge that you have to write down, remember and make a part of your life!

The first one: "I'm not trying to scare you, I'm just scaring you straight"! She uses this one when there is a really important safety, paperwork, or issue that you better remember!

The next one is: "Now, let's make sense, out of nonsense"! This one is for helping us figure out myth from truth, fact from fiction and just plain ridiculous from a good thing to know and understand."

I cracked her up on my first day of clinicals. She calls me Kimmie and I love it. I haven't been called that for many, many years. I can't wait to get to class with her. I am so blessed to have her as my instructor.

Catching Up & Such

2008-10-18T21:59:00.000-04:00

Ok. I am taking my daughter's advice and starting a blog to journal my "college" experience. I must say that going back to school (for the first time at college) at 51 was a tad overwhelming! I have to say, though, that it is probably one of the best decisions I have made. I am loving every minute of it!

I am attending a school which has an accelerated PN program. They weren't kidding! One week is like being in school one month and one month is one quarter. Whew!!!!!! I have been doing really well and am excited to move forward each month. So far, I have taken the following classes since I started: June '08. . .Intro to Nursing, July '08. . .Anatomy & Physiology I, August '08. . .Anatomy & Physiology II, September '08. . .Intro to Micro Computers & Psychology, October '08. . .Nursing Fundamentals I. I have a 3.7 GPA (go Me!). Friday, Oct 17th, was my first day in clinicals. Okay! I was stoked for this!

I was assigned to a nursing home in Elkhart, called Golden Living. It is a really nice extended care facitilty. The night before, I hemmed my scrub pants, pressed my scrub top, attached my name tag, cleaned my white shoes and put in new shoelaces. I was ready. Could I sleep? Nope. So, finally I got up, got dressed and headed to Elkhart. Nervous! but excited. I was assigned my client and I gathered my courage and went in and met him. A very nice man. A very nice man who, lets, just say, can't use the restroom. So. . . after trying to make sense of his chart and changing his incontenence device, I was just sure I made the wrong decision to be a nurse! I was able to give my client a bed bath, learned how to change sheets with someone still in the bed, make a "foot pleat". . . all very exciting skills to have passed off. After lunch, it was necessary to again assist my client with his toileting needs and this time, there was a "little" surprise in there! I totally lost my lunch! Yep, I made a HUGE mistake choosing nursing as my new career!

Then we all were in the education room and learning about care plans, etc. I was having a bit of a problem putting this all together, when, my light bulb of learning clicked on!!! I was born to be a nurse! I am sure I will be riding a roller coaster of emotions, but I am in it for the long haul! I love doing care plans. It is exciting looking up the diagnoses, making the plan and then evaluating and monitoring how my plan is going and if it worked! I have to say, I love using my brain!

I love my Fundies I instructor. I have Ms. Leomi for theory and clinicals. I had her laughing at me. She promised when I graduate, she will remind me of my very first clinical day! I am sure I will never forget it! =0 )