Student Nurse Messages - January 2002

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LATEST MESSAGES

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gordon03uk@yahoo.co.uk
Don't panic!!!!! You will get advice on essays and reports e.t.c. at York - well I know I did! The lecturers are very approachable too so don't be afraid to ask for their help if you feel you need it - and there are also other students who will be too pleased to help you. It's a good Uni - well I think it is anyway hehehehe. Good luck!!!!!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 01:42:41 (GMT)

Nursing In the Military for those who are interested
I work with military students and have worked on military wards where I am training. I have to say that the training I have received from Military nurses is much better than that given by NHS nurses and I have enjoyed working with military nurses, as they seem to take more pride in the job they do. Also, I believe that military students may earn more than a D grade qualified nurse! If anyone is thinking about joining the military as a nurse, either qualified or as a student I would say go for it! Qualified nurses can enter as an officer and earn mega bucks! Unfortunately for me, an older student, I have left it a bit too late to join up - but my hubby is a squaddie so that will have to do hehehehe.
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 01:35:53 (GMT)

Nurses on TV
Oh yeh, Sandy who recently just celebrated her 20th birthday on Holby city - She's been on as a qualified nurse for over a year, which means she must have qualified just before her 19th birthday - youngest nurse I've ever known of!!

- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 22:21:19 (GMT)

Hi Anita - it's true what Sassy says - bringing up kids is the hardest job in the world and tons of guilt comes with it no matter what you do! I have no idea how good your Uni is, but can you not ask for some compassionate leave or something just to give you and your daughter some time together and for you to have a short break from study. Best of luck. Barbara

- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 22:18:24 (GMT)

Nurses on tv
I was wondering what everyone thinks of the way nurses are portrayed on tv today (Holby city, ER) etc.. Does anyone think that this rings true to real life?

- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 21:49:59 (GMT)

housing benefit info 4 clare
Hi clare,I had all sorts of problems recieving housing benefit.However I applied 4 discretionary housing benefit and it is 3o quid plus 12 quid housing benefit.So combined makes quite a good total. good luck. remember apply 4 discretionary.
louise
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 20:49:06 (GMT)

Grace under fire, Anita
Look back over the past 7 years and wonder how you coped. See how strong you were and just know you can still do it now. I know it's hard but try not to beat yourself up over old attitudes. Now you have a diagnosis there may be help for you which might never have been available had she just been diagnosed as 'difficult'. Bringing up kids is the hardest job ever. Bless 'em.
Sassy
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 20:00:53 (GMT)

Oh the joy!!!
My daughter was today diagnosed as having ADHD with the possibility of epilepsy and brain damage to the frontal lobe of her brain - I can't describe how I feel about this because I don't know, she is just 7 and has always been a handful, thing is it is so difficult handling all this with the stress of my course which I am half way through, I should be doing my research assignment at the moment but cant seem to get motivated. I feel quite guilty because I have spent the last 7 years complaining about her and what a pain she is, now I can't stop fussing over her especially as her dad deserted her a year ago too, he couldn't cope with her very well - oh well, we plod on don't we?
Anita
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 19:34:51 (GMT)

housing benefit
Don`t take my word as gospel clare but I`m sure you`d be eligible. My sister works part-time and only earns about £90 a week and she recieves housing benefit and pays only a tiny amount of the rent.Hope this helps.
Sheila
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 19:14:26 (GMT)

HELP!
HI I'M STARTING MY MENTAL HEALTH NURSING DIPLOMA ON MONDAY THE 4TH OF MARC IN CARDIFF S.WALES. HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT HOUSING BENEFIT IF ANYONE WOULD BE GOOD ENOUGH TO ANSWER IT? WILL BE ON A BURSARY OF APPROX £100 PER WEEK,LIVE IN COUNCIL RENTED ACCOMODATION TOO. I CAN'T GET MUCH INFO OFF MY LOCAL COUNCIL BUT NEED TO KNOW IF I QUALIFY AS I WILL HAVE TO ARRANGE TO UNDERTAKE EXTRA WORK IF I'M NOT ACCEPTED FOR H/BENEFIT. COULD SOMEONE GIVE ME THE GOOD OR BAD NEWS AS I'LL NEED TO PRPARE MYSELF FOR LOADS OF EXTRA RELIEF SHIFTS TO MAKE ENDS MEET!!!!!!!! THANKS C.
CLARE <CLAREROG28@AOL.COM>
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 19:05:42 (GMT)

?!?!?!?!?
hello everybody,after 6 years in the RAF i am beginning my new career move into nursing in april starting the adult diploma at york.any help or advice for a 27 year old who hasn't written an essay for at least 9 years and has v little experience of carework would be much appreciated!!i think i'm going to need all the help i can get!a bit of a drastic change but what the hell. by the way H which uni are you at?
JB <gordon03uk@yahoo.co.uk>
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 18:45:00 (GMT)

What Kiwi nurses can do if they are stuck with student loans
Why the NZ Student Loan scheme has cost us 5 billion so far. Dear Editor According figures obtained under the Official Information Act by the university students association, Student Loan debt is predicted to be at least $10 billion by 2009 and more than $16 billion by 2019. A major factor contributing to this debt is the Governments failure to clearly warn Student Loan holders who reside overseas about the penalties that apply if repayments are not made at the rate stipulated by the Government. The average loan debt of a Student Loan holder that resides overseas is $16,390. The stipulated repayment rate for Student Loan holders who reside overseas and who have a debt exceeding $15,000 is 15% of their total Student Loan, each year (this affects some 5,145 New Zealanders). If they are unable to repay this amount, they are deemed to be in arrears. The Government then 'punishes' these New Zealanders by adding an extra 2% to the amount they are already overdue. This has a huge impact as these 5,145 already have a total of over $20,300,000 owing. The 2% arrears 'punishment' earns the Government over $406,000 each month from this group of 5,145. The Government introduced charging interest and penalties on Student Loans to encourage borrowers to repay their debt sooner. The Government has however failed to set Inland Revenue the fundamental objective of educating Student Loan holders about the affect of these penalties and interest and their focus has been primarily on revenue generation. By making it easier for loan holders to understand their obligations (and affect of penalties and interest) it would encourage those who able to make repayments to do so at a more significant rate. This would thereby reduce the amount charged as penalties. To illustrate how little effort the Government has put into making the loan scheme interest and penalty structure easy to understand, ask your local MP to work out if you (or someone you know with a Student Loan) is eligible for a partial base interest write off. I would very much like to know why the Government charges graduates so much for their education and why they haven't publicised how long, on average, a Student Loan holder will be in debt for based on the type of job they get. Do they really want us to know? In order to get my vote this election, the political party will have to show me how they are going to stop the Student Loan debt escalating further. Perhaps they could allow graduates to repay their loan through working on community service projects. This way, the 90% of New Zealanders who now leave tertiary education with a loan will not be forced to be indebted to the Government just because they have worked hard to become qualified in professions that New Zealand needs. References: Student Loan Quarterly Report to Dec 01 http://www.ird.govt.nz/aboutir/reports/slreport-dec01.html; Student loan debt balloons to over $5 billion Tara Ross Wednesday 20 February Christchurch Press Cheers Liam Butler
Liam Butler
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 13:49:35 (GMT)

www.NursesReUnited.co.uk
Hey! www.NursesReUnited.co.uk - check it out, it's great!
John <jjames345@hotmail.com>
- Monday, February 25, 2002 at 12:13:27 (GMT)

Fee's international students
Mr Mungar, course fee's for international students to study nursing at diploma level in the UK are approximately £10750 per year, for 3 years. You will also be required give proof to the immigration department that you have the means to support yourself for the duration of the course (savings, family sponsorship etc) for which I would estimate you will need approximately £5000 per year depending on which area of the UK you are planning to study in. The south east of England tends to be much more expensive in terms of accomodation costs than the rest of the UK, however you will have a much greater opportunity to meet fellow mauritiuns if you do choose to study in London.

- Sunday, February 24, 2002 at 23:32:21 (GMT)

Help!!!
Dear Sir/Madam. I am Mr Oumesh Mungur from Mauritius. I am very glad to hear that you help students like me. In fact I would like to have more information about nursing in UK, for example the fees, campus for overseas students, other facilities and so on. Well I thank you beforehand for your cooperation.
Mr Oumesh Mungur <mamounitish@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, February 24, 2002 at 21:36:33 (GMT)

University
Has anyone studied nursing at the University of Manchester? If so what is it like for nursing. Do they still use Whythenshawe hospital for practicles?

- Sunday, February 24, 2002 at 21:25:10 (GMT)

First few weeks??
We were in college from 9-4 for 6 whole months with only two weeks during that time on a ward, that was supposed to be our introduction to nursing. That was the only ward placement for the whole of the first year. The only other was community placement. Second year is more interesting because of a 12 week placement which was fantastic. Not so sure about the EC Directives, the small introduction into the other branches of nursing. What good going to a primary school for two weeks will do me if I have to treat an acutely ill child I'll never know!!! Dunno what third year will be like but so far, things have only got better. Not sure what other people feel, but you'll learn far more on your placements that you ever will in a lecture situation. College is so badly organised and sometimes a complete waste of time. Imagine having to travel 70 miles for a lecture only to be told 15 minutes after we'd sat down that it'd been cancelled the week before but nobody had thought to tell us. Not best pleased!! But if this is what you really want to do, you'll get the most of it because you want to do well. Good luck!
H
- Sunday, February 24, 2002 at 21:24:26 (GMT)

What to expect?
Hi folks. Well, only 7 mnths to go and third year is the best so far. Jest lurve all that acute stuff - far more interesting than all the branch work etc. Anyway, I digress. What to expect in your first 2 weeks? Blimey. Well, you'll get lost in your Uni at least twice during your first day. Everyone will look the same, anxious, sweaty and confused - and that's just the lecturers! You should get your timetable if not for the first week, for the entire 3 years like we did. This is cool, 'cos you get to see how much theory and how much practical there is and where it's at. You also get to highlight your holidays in something bright and sickly. Gives you something to look forward too, see! So, my course started off with 5 weeks in Uni, with wall to wall lectures from 9am til 4pm. Still remember my first A & P lecture, Homeostasis no less. Then we got one day out a week (Weds it was) onto a ward. After 6 weeks, we were out on that ward for a 7 week placement...then it was back into Uni for more theory...dah de dah...and so it goes. For me, 1st year was the worst. Then 2nd year was only slightly better. But 3rd year is the biz. Good luck.
Sassy
- Sunday, February 24, 2002 at 19:12:33 (GMT)

Just out of interest.... I start my diploma in September and I want to know what to expect in my first couple of weeks, what I will be learning, what I will be doing, what I will be experiencing, how much time I will be spending in a class room situation and how much time I will be spending doing practical work, that sort of thing. It's always nice to know what the plan is!

- Sunday, February 24, 2002 at 13:43:48 (GMT)

Re: Army or Navy
I don't know about a full time career but I am in the Territorial Army. As a student nurse you are an officer cadet until you qualify. It is great fun, very challenging and you get paid! There are TA medical units all over the country, try it!
Jenny
- Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 15:12:23 (GMT)

Duties of nursing
If people want a career as nurse specialists thats fine - i dont see a problem with it, as the NHS would not run without them. so dont diss people who want to have a career in a specialist field OK, its personal choice. BUT i do agree to become a good nurse you have got to do the basic needs of wiping bums, feeding etc. I would be quite happy to do these roles as a nurse. Unfortunately some staff nurses on my placement think it is above them to do these basic tasks and thinnk it is the jobs of auxilary and student nurses- while they give (according to them) the "proper care"

- Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 14:17:00 (GMT)

Re; duties of Nurses
This reallly annoys me! Nursing is all about giving personal and holistic care. This means the whole range from wiping bums to highly technical procedures. It will be a disaster for nurses and patients if qualified nurses only see themselves as managers rather than doers. The whole problem with the growth of specialist nurses is that they are becoming the career goal for many students. It used to be the ambition was to be a good Staff Nurse and the ultimate was to be a Ward Sister. These vital roles are being undermined as everyone wants to become a nurse specialist and work 9-5 without giving direct hands on care. Who will be left to do the real nursing? If you don't want to feed patients, make them comfortable in bed or clear up vomit in order to maintain a persons dignity then don't become a nurse!
Jan
- Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 13:13:21 (GMT)

RE duties of nurses
It is the duty of nurses to feed and change bed pans etc!! how can you promote and improve health if you can't do these tasks. Basic needs need to be dealt with as well as other healthcare/medical matters. If you ask me, those students who think that basic needs don't matter are not going to make good nurses

- Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 12:40:21 (GMT)

Duties of nurses
some of the student nurses on my course think that it is a "waste of their time" to do basic nursing tasks (when they qualify) e.g change beds, bedpans,serve meals. They think this should be the domain of auxiliary nurses and as they`ve trained for three years they should deal with the healthcare side of things. I`m curious as to what everyone else thinks.

- Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 11:57:22 (GMT)

psychosocial interventions in schizophrenia
anybody know of any websites that may have some information on psychosocial interventions for schizophrenia as i cant find any bloody anywhere ! Im working in a forensic medium secure unit in stafford and all of are going on this course at some point or another, anyone else found it usefull? thanks alot
wayne harvey <Wayne.Harvey@ssh-tr.nhs.uk>
- Friday, February 22, 2002 at 17:59:51 (GMT)

Army or Navy
Hi Sal, I'm a student nurse training with the Royal Navy. We spend a lot of our time in normal civilian uni and hospitals but obviously also do placements with the Navy. I am sure you cn join as a Staff Nurse or with a few years experience as a Nursing Officer. I think you either love it or hate it! The actual nursing is the same but there is much more time to give to patients and I think they get better care. The whole systemm is more structured than the NHS, the wards are clean! Of course its military so there is a bit of calling people "Sir". We also learn all sorts of other military skills such as map reading, survival etc. The other thing is that the ward uniform is really great, we still wear a proper traditional uniform with starched apron and hat. It looks very smart and is perfectly comfortable to wear and I know a lot of my civvy friends are envious of it. I love the Navy and can't wait to be qualified, I then hope to progress to be an Officer in due course.
Elizabeth
- Friday, February 22, 2002 at 12:12:45 (GMT)

nurse pratitioners
Does anyone know how you progress to become an emergency nurse practitioner. What educational qualifications do you need? thanx in advance

- Friday, February 22, 2002 at 11:38:50 (GMT)

Army or Navy?
I'm thinking about joining either the Army or the Royal navy as a Nurse when I qualify. Does anyone have any experience or opinions?
Sal
- Friday, February 22, 2002 at 08:50:58 (GMT)

to nurse or not to nurse
I've just found this site and have spent a wee while looking at all the messages. I've been having doubts lately about becoming a nurse but I have just been on an excellant placement where for once I actually felt that the staff were interested in helping me learn and they actually seemed to like their jobs! I've realised that nursing, just like any profession has people in it that really should't be. I want to do this and I am not prepared to let other peoples negative attitudes and cynacism put me off! So there. :-) p.s. Whats happening with Matt?
Lucy
- Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 17:24:11 (GMT)

What is the role of a nurse?
I am currently an access to nursing student, i have got an interview for university on 19th March 2002. My problem is due to the changing role of nurses, could someone please tell me how I should answer the above question. Any other tips would also be very useful as I am terrified.
Emma <emmastephens@btinternet.com>
- Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 17:09:37 (GMT)

Due to start training soon and wondered if anyone had any info on the presentations you have to do. What's involved?

- Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 16:40:16 (GMT)

aawwwwwwwww..........bless!
ange
- Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 16:27:40 (GMT)

i want to be a nurse
I want to be a nurse when i grow up.i am 6 years old but my mummy is a nurse and my grandma uses to be a nurse and so did my great grandma.i think nurses are better than doctors because they talk to ill people more.i want to nurse old people because they are just as impotrtantt as young people,and they tell you more storys about there lives.
hannah
- Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 18:19:21 (GMT)

A level points system
The A level points system changed this year but the old points system is A=10 B=8 C=6 D=4 E=2, so you can work out what you need for a dgree programme. Some universities ask for more than 16 points and some ask for around 14 points or more for some diploma programmes.

- Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 11:04:06 (GMT)

Janet
Janet, I understand your point about how demorilising it is to work with nurses and HCA's who have no passion for their job, those who seem to resent patients and students alike, before I started my training I worked on a maternity ward where most of the staff seemed to treat each woman as 'just another inconvinience' - I decided that when I qualify if I ever get to the point where I start resenting the patients then I'll know its time quit and its a promise to myself I still hold to this day. However why do you also criticise the staff on your ward on the basis of things such as working part time or wanting to take breaks or finish on time?

- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 23:16:49 (GMT)

A-Level Points
Is there anyone who understands the point system for A-Levels? The typical amount of points needed to enter a degree course seems to be about 16, but what grades = what points? , any help would be great!! Thanks in advance.

- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 22:33:38 (GMT)

Sorry to hear that this Elaine has caused such a big problem, hope you sort things out.

- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 22:14:03 (GMT)

who the hell is elaine please
whats the matter how has this person called elaine upset u . do you need to discuss it.i'm a mentor so if u need to chat just feel free to do so.
debra
- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 18:59:08 (GMT)

Elaine if you're reading this you really know how to mess with people's heads. Don't ever treat anyone like you treated me. You know who I am.

- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 18:46:01 (GMT)

cfp portfolio
can any1 help me as i'm into my 4th week of placement,my 1st 1,and i'm a bit stuck on my portfolio, esp. part askin about ukcc.
geraldine
- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 18:24:20 (GMT)

Thanks for your kind words, but the whole point is that it isn't "just a job", or so I thought. There is something special and out of the ordinary about being a nurse, but there I go being all idealistic again!
Janet
- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 13:09:45 (GMT)

Hi Janet - sorry to hear you're not enjoying your first ward placement. I haven't started training yet but have done some voluntary work. Yes, I think we as 'outsiders' to have an idealistic view of the nursing profession and can sometimes be very judgemental. Let's not forget that it is just a job at the end of the day (albeit a very worthwhile one!).

- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 13:03:35 (GMT)

Re: placements
I think it depends on you`re placement Janet. I too have experienced this but not all nurses are like that and on my placements I`ve met some truly great ones who do their job because they love it. Keep at it , remember you`ll have a chance to put this kind of thing right when you qualify. Good luch!

- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 11:36:03 (GMT)

Placements
Help! I've just started my first ward placement and it's awful. The problem is that the nursing staff just don't seem to care about the patients and have no time at all for students. It's not that they are cruel or doing anything dangerous, it's just that there is no sense of warmth or caring. The HCAs only want to get to their next break so they can go and have a smoke. The Staff Nurses are all part-time and disappear the minute their shift is over not to be seen again for days and the Ward Sister is never around. They all just about do their job but there is no sense of professionalism or commitment. I thought I was joining a brilliant profession, but from what I've seen so far there is no professionalism around. I hate to say this but the only people I've seen who put the patients first are the doctors who are the only ones who bother to teach us students anything. Is it alays like this? Am I too idealistic? I thought nursing was special, now I'm not sure.
Janet
- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 10:51:11 (GMT)

jesus wept sue,have some self respect!

- Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 09:25:37 (GMT)

peplau
Hi fellow nursing type people..................has anybody a scooby do where I can get some 'internet' info on Peplau's Interpersonal Nursing Theory Model(1952) ?????? thanking u in advance D Thorn
D thorn <camelhump353@aol.com>
- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 22:53:30 (GMT)

diplomas
I don`t really know for sure how far you can progress with a diploma . However looking at job ads for higher grades (F and above) they increasingly ask for a degree or that you are working towards one.

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 22:17:46 (GMT)

Diploma
Does anybody know how far your career can progress with just a diploma?

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 20:40:04 (GMT)

A levels
To the person with bio,soc, psy A levels, do the degree if you can afford it for the reasons I put in the first posting,particularly if there's quite a bit of difference between the diploma and degree course at the uni your applying for (at some uni's the courses are identical except that you do a dissertation at the end of the degree - do the diploma first and degree later if thats the case) but anyway if you start by doing the degree it won't neccesarily mean you won't be covering stuff you've already done at A level as they'll still need to teach it as not everyone will have the same A levels. Your HCA experience should definetely come in usefull, I was an HCA for only four months the year before I started the course and my first year mentors often said they could tell from my confidence and competence that I'd had previous experience. As for the age thing,I'm sure many potential young student nurses would love to gain HCA experience in the summer between finishing college and starting uni if it was offered to them.

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 20:06:35 (GMT)

Thanks for the advice on diploma v's degree. I think that i will do the diploma and top up with a degree after, if you can still progress onto higher grades with a top up degree.

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 19:06:30 (GMT)

RE:degree V diploma
If you want to progress to higher grades and management you`re better off doing the degree if you can . My aunts a surgical sister and she thinks diploma educated nurses will go down the route of enrolled nurses. Apparently some people think we`re going down the same route as USA where the vast majority of nurses are educated at degree level and beyond. However doing the diploma is better financially and you can always upgrade to a degree later.

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 18:57:25 (GMT)

where ru matt xxxxxxxxxxxxx
matt,it's sue.please reply to my previous message as i'd luv 2 meet up with u.candlelit dinner cooked by me in the nurses home if u want. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
sue
- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 18:26:42 (GMT)

WHAT UTTER RUBBISH!!! I take great exception to the comment 'younger people are better at caring'. How can you possibly make such a stupid generalisation. Glad to see that ageism is alive and well!!

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 16:13:04 (GMT)

Re : degree v's diploma
I have applied to do the diploma course and have A levels in biology, psychology and sociology and relevent work experience as an HCA. But now that ive heard that you were bored in lectures at uni because of doing the same work as at A level, i wonder if id be better off doing the degree. Is it true that employers look down on you if you first studied for diploma? I really want to progress in nursing but i am worried that i may not be able to because of the diploma.

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 15:19:54 (GMT)

Young or old?
I don't want to upset anyone but there is a point here. Older people bring greater maturity and experience but also greater cynicism and a sense of weariness. Younger people have greater vitality and energy, tend to be used to academic work and are often fitter. I hate to say this but when watching younger students with patients you can see they are better at really caring. They are still idealistic whereas often older students are ex-HCAs and are already burnt out emotionally. Whatever, I do think all student nurses should be exposed to the reality of nursing early in the course so that some can discover it is not for them before too long has passed. I suggest that the first month of the course should be spent working under very close supervision of a qualified nurse but working real hours and real shifts seeing the reality of life as a nurse. Only those who survive should be allowed to carry on!

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 10:06:00 (GMT)

Nothing better to do at 5-00am? Twat.

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 07:58:19 (GMT)

Matt, you miserable man......
Everybody on this board wants to see you follow up with Sue on her offer. Please keep us posted.......

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 05:00:46 (GMT)

Really, don't worry about not having done more relevant subjects, as long as you've got GCSE biology/science then you should be fine. I did biology, sociology and psychology at A level and was bored stiff in most lectures for the first year of uni cos I'd already covered most of what we were studying, doing anything second time round, however interesting is always a bore especially as what we were doing in first year uni was at a lower level than doing the pure subjects at A level. It will be the general academic skills you've learnt during A levels such as essay writing, being used to referencing, research skills etc which you'll be glad of. If your going to redbrick do the degree if you can afford it, as the course does seem to have more of an emphasis on preparing you for climbing higher in your career and involves shared learning with med students or other inotative aspects and you'll also probably be in a smaller group than a cohort of 300-400. Do the diploma if finances are a really big issue for you, e.g if you've got a mortgage, children etc - you can always do the degree afterwards and clinically you'll be on the same level, pay and grade when you qualify as a degree student. Anyway good luck!

- Monday, February 18, 2002 at 01:04:34 (GMT)

Advice
Hi, would anyone be able to advise me about which course (degree or diploma) would be most suitable for me to take. I have 9 GCSE'S AND 3 A-Levels AT GRADE c Level (Geography, History and I.T)i regret not taking Biology is this a disadvantage or will i be able to get by without it? Also does anyone know how far your career can go with a diploma? Any help would be great!

- Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 19:59:28 (GMT)

wot do you mean by "what the job entails"?

- Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 17:17:31 (GMT)

re: age to start training
i believe that the age to start training can be a problem if the student has an immature attitude. I take my hat off to some of the students who qualify and are just 21. I could never have been that level headed at 21!! What i do believe is that all students entering training should have at least 6 months experience as a care assistant. I think this should be compulsory. Many students drop out in the first 6 months because they have never nursed before and are quite shocked at what the job entails. For mature students who have done care work for years it is frustrating when you are expected to spend the first 6 months of training learning the 'basics'. I have heard that students with NVQ level 3 skip the first 6 months, is this right???

- Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 16:07:22 (GMT)

valentines day
hi matt its sue who answered 2 your valentine misery.You asked if im in sheffield,no im not but im in york....fancy meetin up???????????
to mattxxxxxxxxxxx
- Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 13:35:03 (GMT)

I dunno really, some of the younger students in my class seem a lot more dedicated and serious than some of the mature students, but I guess it probably varies.
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 12:46:32 (GMT)

I`ve heard that some nurses think that the minimum age of entering training is too young and that is should be made older,as some students aren`t mature enough to deal with the serious issues within the nursing profession. What does everyone else think?
Alex
- Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 11:16:54 (GMT)

Thanks
Thanks for the info.
Damon <dj432@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, February 16, 2002 at 23:22:05 (GMT)

So glad to hear it gets better. I in my first year and have just finished my first placement and it has been hard going. I am a mature student but believe me I have felt like a an idiot at times but I have dug my heels in and I am still carrying on reguardless! All I can say to anyone starting their nurse training is you are in this game for you and you only, do not let anyone grind you down because if you are sensitive natured you could be put off by some of the negative staff, but at the end of the day when we qualify we will become good if not better nurses than those who whe have to train with!!!!!!!!! GOOD LUCK
Maz
- Saturday, February 16, 2002 at 23:06:05 (GMT)

Matt, so glad you're enjoying the course. Any great words of wisdom to new nursing students? Barbs

- Saturday, February 16, 2002 at 18:23:40 (GMT)

3rd Year
I have to agree. I started third year in September last year and I've never enjoyed my training so much. It just seems to keep getting better. If only the bursary was as good as the training!
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Saturday, February 16, 2002 at 10:20:30 (GMT)

IT GETS BETTER
i am nearly a 3rd year in a month and to all those students who feel like giving it up, it gets better as you biuld your knowledge
sharon <s.macdonald@talk21.com>
- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 22:36:46 (GMT)

Matt
Hey Matt Monsters Inc is hilarious! Took the kids to see it last week - shame you missed it!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 20:35:38 (GMT)

When did this site become so vendictive? Sorry I don't meet your standards is this spelt well enough for you!!!!!!!!!!! I've had a shit day on placement I don't need you on my back as well!!! If your not brave enouth to put your name on posts like that keep your opinions to your self
BETH
- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 16:40:26 (GMT)

Beth, can you please learn to spell?

- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 16:27:45 (GMT)

I posted a message earlyer and it semes to have disapeared off the board??? Very strange! Anyway Matt dont mind the anons you winge all you want and about your flatmate I bet they dident do any beter on valantins day PS neither did I!!!
BETH
- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 16:17:57 (GMT)

Question
As a Student Nurse am I a student or am I a Nurse?

- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 12:08:32 (GMT)

not brave enough to put your name and email address down eh...
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 10:51:35 (GMT)

matt,why don't you bore another message board with your pitiful whinging crap??

- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 10:38:24 (GMT)

To top it all my housemates went to see Monsters inc without me tonight and I really wanted to see it.
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 00:05:58 (GMT)

Sue
Are you in Sheffield?
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Friday, February 15, 2002 at 00:05:11 (GMT)

matt
Matt, i'm a 2nd year student and I've had a miserable valentines 2 , after splitting up from a long time b/f last month I'll be your valentine matt so have sweet dreams and a big kiss and hug from me xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
sue
- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 22:52:43 (GMT)

bollox
Yet another depressing valentine's day spent with a few cans of Tetley's.
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 22:45:39 (GMT)

Degrees or diplomas
It doesn't really matter, we just want to learn to be good nurses! I'm afraid nursing is intellectually insecure and is desperate to be regarded as a "proper" profession, hence the move to try for an all graduate profession. As the whole thing about getting a degree is more and more dumbed down (degrees in hairdressing, hamburger frying etc from unheard of universities) the whole arguement becomes irrelevant. If you feel it is important to get a good degree try to go to an established university, not an ex-polytechnic. Most important though is the quality of the clinical placements, try asking the current students.

- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 19:29:23 (GMT)

Alex, Don't worry
Alex sorry you had such a horrible interview but unless they've told you to sod off already don't lose hope yet. I had a major arguement with one of my interviewers ending with me telling him that he had no real idea what was happening on the wards these days, and should really get a clue.....And here I am one year down the road in to my CFP: I'm still not sure whether to thank or curse him.....but I have fun winding him up in lectures. So hope you either get good news or have better luck in the future.
Jean <hoganj2000@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 18:28:48 (GMT)

Diploma vs Degree?
In terms of your initial registration as a nurse there is no difference. Degree and diploma level students are placed in exactly the same place on the register. Where I am nursing students placements are assessed in exactly the same way whether they are diploma or degree. The difference is in the academic level achieved. Undergraduate courses are divided into levels 1,2 and 3. To be awarded a Dip HE you will be expected to achieve Levels 1 and 2 over your three year course. A degree student is expected to achieve Levels 1,2 and 3 over their 3 or 4 year course. The other key difference is that financially Diploma students are normally better off as Diploma bursaries are non means-tested, whereas degree students are means tested. At the moment (rightly or wrongly) there seems to be an expectation that Diploma students will need to, during the course of their careers, top up their diplomas to degrees in order to improve their long term career prospects, if this is what they want to achieve. Hope this information is helpful and that you enjoy being a student nurse whichever route you end up going down.
Jacks
- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 18:18:11 (GMT)

Diploma vs degree?
Hi, i'm a bit confused here what are the main differences between degrees and diplomas? you become a qualified nurse after both don't you? so whats the big differences? any advice would be nice thanks.

- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 16:04:48 (GMT)

Interviews
Some good things to say: "I am good at working in a team", "I have worked part-time in a nursing home", "I'm a good communicator and like working with people" "I enjoy a challenge" "I genuinely care". Some bad things to say: "I just want to help people", "I want to marry a doctor" , "I really wanted to be a doctor but didn't get good enough A levels" "I think the uniform looks sexy"

- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 15:30:05 (GMT)

Interviews
I had an interview at Nottingham in December-which was my first and i was absolutely bricking it.I was interviewed in this little broomcupboard which was quite grim by a nurse lecturer and a nurse. They made me feel really nervous and seemed to ask stupid questions like are you organised? When i obviously wasnt gonna say , yes, i leave everything till the last minute and write my essays the night before they're due in. My Sheffield Hallam Interview was also pants, and then I went to my Kings Interview which was really well organised and I got in - hurrah! So to everyone out there who's got interviews the more practice you get the more your interview technique gets :-) And you will eventually get a place.
Siobhan <girlfrommars83@aol.com>
- Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 00:20:49 (GMT)

HELP!!
I was wondering if anyone out there could help me. I've got an interview at great ormond street hospital for a place at south bank uni to do the children's nursing degree course. I have to write an essay titled- "discuss the personal qualities required by a nurse caring for children" has anyone got any info about it? any help appreciated. thanx. Hel
Hel <hellie3@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 21:35:01 (GMT)

Nightmare interviews
Hi Alex, I agree with you that 5 minutes doesn't seem very long for an interview. When I attended we had two tests lasting half an hour each; maths and english (quite a challenging piece of comprehension) followed straight away by a group interview. There were six of us in the group and two nursing tutors who sat in with us. Basically we had to start a discussion on the subject 'doctors cure and nurses care'. This was quite challenging in itself but I guess was an opportunity for the tutors to see how well we communicated with each other and understood the nursing process. My advice for anyone going for an interview would be to read as much about nursing as you can to get a real feel for the profession. Use key words such as holistic and advocate - seemed to work for me!! Good luck, Barbara

- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 19:40:11 (GMT)

Interview
I've applied to do the Nursing Diploma and recently been for my first interview at Brighton. I was really nervous because I was so anxious to do well and therefore was so disappointed to only be interviewed for 5 minutes. I was only just beginning to overcome my nerves when the interview was ended; the person before me was also only interviewed for 5 minutes - I can't believe we were both written off! We had both travelled a long way and I therefore feel we should have been allowed a little more time for our interview. I know I will make a good nurse but feel I just wasn't given the opportunity or time to put that across to my interviewer, who didn't seem to have any information about me available at the interview. Has anyone else had the same experience and what is the average time allowed for an interview to do the Nursing Diploma?I would be very grateful for any feedback to help me with my next interview.
Alex <AlexBovDisplay@aol.com>
- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 18:45:44 (GMT)

Yes that was the plus side to the old style system but would you like to be left on a night shift as the most senior person with two axciluarys six months into the course?? I thik that each way has their own good and bad points and neither is perfect. And if one more staff nures on the wards tells me that the way they trained was better i'm going to scream!!! We have no choice at the moment this is the only way we can train.
Beth
- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 17:59:11 (GMT)

Go for it Lucy. You have to be interested in and like people, be able to work as a team member, actually care, and be prepared for the frustrations of the NHS but all in all nursing is the most satisfying career around. One other thing, never expect to be rich!
Anna
- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 12:09:14 (GMT)

Any advice?...
I am looking at starting a career in Nursing. I'm 27 and have been a secretary for the past 4 years but want to do something worthwile and come home at the end of the day feeling like I've made a difference. Does anybody have any advice and is it difficult to get on to a diploma course (looking at Middlesex University)? Any comments would be welcome!
Lucy <LucyBlevings@aol.com>
- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 11:43:01 (GMT)

Types of course
My aunt started training in 1982 and from what she tells me it was much better. The school of nursing was based within the hospital grounds rather than on a uni campus miles away so much less travelling. They were working on the wards after an introductory month with study block of 2 weeks in every 12 week attachment. The 12 weeks was spent on the same ward so they really felt part of the team. She says she felt she belonged to the hospital with a great sense of identity. On qualifying she felt reasonably confident as a Staff Nurse whereas I don't think I will have a clue! The other thing was they wore really smart proper uniforms, I wish we did!

- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 09:05:09 (GMT)

Nursesreunited
has anyone seen the msn community for reuniting nurses with their old friends from their training days? its at communities.msn.co.uk/nursesreunited
robert <mrcathcart@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 02:11:52 (GMT)

New programme
I was under the impression that the length of placements had not changed, but just rearranged... is it not still the case that college and clinicals receive a 50/50 weighting? I've heard the arguments for and against both. What's the real story on the new style course?
Claire
- Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 00:49:24 (GMT)

Length of placements
Well, here I am at the end of CFP and currently on a 12 week placement on a general surgical ward and compared to the last placement of 8 weeks, I think I have learnt far more on the longer one. I have settled in well, I now know where everything is kept, know the staff really well and feel part of the team. I would recommend longer placements. The only drawback is if there were any conflicts with other staff members or you just didn't like it there. I actually feel like a nurse, not just an extra person standing around looking lost wondering what to do next!!!
H
- Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 22:33:41 (GMT)

barb
thanks barbs for the info been on the enb site it was ok but not what i really needed.well its finished now and hand it in on fri so wish me luck. only one more to go then i should be free for a while!!! now its time to look for a job any going where you chaps are?
chili
- Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 18:34:04 (GMT)

Hi Jacks, isn't it interesting how even though we are all doing the same diploma course, they are all run so differently!! Good luck with the rest of the course. Barbs

- Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 16:39:02 (GMT)

Courses - Year Long CFP
I started my course in September last year on one year CFP. Our first placement was 6 weeks into the course for 8 weeks (4 days a week) in an acute setting. I am now on my second 8 week placement in the community which finishes 8th March and then from 15th April we`ll be out on placement until 18th July (3 days a week). Although I was petrified of going out on placement so soon into the course, I have found the placements to be really valuable and I have learnt a lot about practical nursing, as well as the academic side of things at University. The response from qualified nurses has been very good as the emphasis on my course is heavily on practice. I am not saying it is perfect as, being a new course, there are a lot of teething troubles, but I think its a step in the right direction.
Jacks
- Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 15:54:49 (GMT)

Courses
Well, that sounds a good idea. Having wasted 18 months on CFP without hardly seeing a patient I suggest that; 1. Clinical practice is integrated from the very start of the course. 2.Each student has a qualified nurse mentor who is an experienced practical nurse. 3.Teaching is moved away from university departments and into hospitals/community settings. 4.All lecturers also have part-time clinical contracts. Nursing can only be learnt with patients, not in lectures.

- Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 12:39:54 (GMT)

NEW STYLE DIPLOMA COURSE !
I am due to start the 'new' course in September which means the CFP is completed within a year and apparently my first placement is for 15 weeks on the same ward. Does this sound like an improvement? The message is obviously getting through to the educationalists that more time is needed in practice, especially in your chosen branch. Any comments? Also, just to add, on speaking to one of the college tutors, she indicated that in the future it is possible that all training would be in adult nursing and if you wanted to specialise in any of the other branches you would have to do a further course. What do you think?

- Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 11:19:32 (GMT)

Midwives
The problem is that a lot of midwifery lecturers are stuck in some sort of 1970s feminist agenda timewarp. They seem to see midwifery in a sociological context and it all gets earth-mothery. They are just another health profession which is no better and no worse than anyone else.

- Tuesday, February 12, 2002 at 08:49:13 (GMT)

Student nurses/ student midwives
Julie, I agree with you, all this rivalry is rather silly but it certainly exists on both sides - I've heard of student nurses who are genuinely mystified as to what student midwives spend all their time doing as they assume all they have to do is learn to deliver babies! As a direct entry student midwife I once even had a patient who expressed surprise when my mentor (a qualified nurse and midwife) told her that midwifery training for nurses is 18 months. She said it seemed a long time as she assumed qualified nurses must already have virtually all of the skills and knowledge it takes to be a midwife. Whether the course is harder or easier I suppose depends on your appitude for that particular role, I've had many nurses tell me that they hated their midwifery placement/training and some whov'e said they found it 'terrifying' but when I've asked RN trained practising midwives about their training and which they found harder - all have expressed that they found both courses of equal challenge. I suppose the question comes down to 'is it easier to be the jack of all trades or the master of one'? - Of course doing a speciality means having to learn one role in more depth but I don't think thats neccesarily harder as personally I think doing just a speciality actually helps you learn faster as your not constantly having to jump from one area to another and so the skills your learning on one placement are more transferable to the next unlike with adult nurse training where you might be doing elderly care one placement and A+E the next.

- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 23:54:04 (GMT)

Post-grad diploma
Hiya, I'm almost at the end of the post-grad diploma. I don't think you really miss out on alot of learning, although its very crammed for the first eight months or so. Are they still doing that programme anyhow? As I understood it we were the second to last cohort due to the restructuring of the courses, not sure if that is universal though.
Claire
- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 23:54:01 (GMT)

post-grad diploma
Has anyone got ant experience of the post-grad diploma in adult nursing ? I like the idea of qualifying in two years but I`m worried that I will miss out a lot of basic nursing knowledge.
emma
- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 22:07:30 (GMT)

Training
So why have I spent the last almost 3 years writing essays on "nursing theories and models" and such drivel when I know next to nothing about the hands on practicalities of looking after a patient after a CVA? I doubt that I shall be a safe practitioner when I qualify. The whole of nurse education needs sorting out, we need vastly more practical experience and the academic stuff needs to be more relevant.

- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 19:06:20 (GMT)

Sue
Good God, yes I'm with you too - I can't see how we could be managers without any experience of 'proper nursing' - Oh I wouldn't have started training if I was going to push a pen all day, I could have done that with my office experience - GOD FORBID!!!!
Anita
- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 17:53:43 (GMT)

To working Abroad
I grew up in the UK and went into nursing in Canada. We have nursing shortages here and are poaching nurses from wherever we can get them. People have to realize that problems within healthcare are the same the world over. The Registered Nurse here is become more of an administrator with less time spent on direct patient care unless the have specialized in ICU care. Most of the traditional RN work has passed onto the Licensed Nurse. Regards to uniforms most hospitals here want you clean and ironed and don't care what you wear. I wear a dress 90% of the time and have never found it to be a problem. Hats/caps are no longer de rigeur, but a lot of us wear them (RN and LPN) on National Nurses Day. Oh, and both levels of nurses assist when needing with feeding, cleaning and picking them up off the floors. Amanda

- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 16:25:05 (GMT)

Help! I'm 19 and want to train as a nurse but some of the postings are putting me off! I want to learn to be a "hands on" nurse, not a manager. Any suggestions as to the best place to train? Is anybody on a course they think is really good out there? Have I got it wrong, is nursing not actually about looking after sick people??
Jane
- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 12:02:22 (GMT)

Arses
I'm with you Sue. If I wanted to be a pen pusher for the rest of my life I'd have done something other than nursing. How can you nurse patients without being directly involved in their care?
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 10:39:46 (GMT)

Anyone got ny views on a debate i've had with another student? She thinks we should spend our time learning about management, audit, finances etc so that we can manage care. She feels washing patients, feeding them, wiping up vomit etc is not nursing and should all be delegated to HCAs. I totally disagree and think that as nurses we should be aimimg to provide total care, ranging from wiping bottoms to technical procedures and yes, an element of management of the nursing team. Any thoughts?
Sue
- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 08:31:19 (GMT)

LINDSAY LEAVING NHS????
How come? Why? How long you been nursing? What would have made you stay? What will you do next?>>>>
Alan Milburn
- Monday, February 11, 2002 at 03:31:23 (GMT)

Aspiring nurses
To all those aspiring young nurses out there who are too young to start training, check out if your local hospital runs a nurse cadet scheme. You can start the 1-2 year scheme at 16 and if you complete the course your hospital usually has an arrangement with the local university whereby you'll be guaranteed a place on the nursing diploma. The course is usually structured with 3 days on placement within the hospital gaining general experience and learning basic skills such as taking blood pressures and 2 days a week at college. Your awarded an NVQ level 3 in care on sucessfull completion, and with some of the courses you also study for additional qualifications. The maintanence grant is around £5000 per annum, although you'll have to check this out as I'm not sure whether this applies to all the schemes. Anyway good luck to you all

- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 22:20:36 (GMT)

Yeah, i think i'll try doing that. Thanks for the advice.
Damon
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 19:16:17 (GMT)

Hi Chili, I'm not a student yet(due to start in September) but thought I'd have a look and see if I could find anything on the net for you about the compression bandaging. I'm sure you've looked already but I had a look at the enb.search (database) and found loads of info on compression bandaging. Good luck! Barbs

- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 18:58:45 (GMT)

Work experience
Damon - My sixth form College helped me find experience in a local hospital for 6 weeks- this was paid work.I also worked in a nursing home as a care assistant. This gave me tones of experience in basic care which is a great help proir to starting uni.
Paul
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 18:47:16 (GMT)

Confused...
help! i need some advice and this seems like the ideal place! i've started my degree in nursing at the Uni of Ulster(Derry) and before i ever started, i've always had a leaning towards Mental Health nursing(i also did a Dip in Addiction Studies prior to this). My worry is that now i feel a wee bit torn as i really enjoy the General aspect of nursing and am begining to doubt my desire to do mental health..... Some people have said do the general first and then do the mental health, as opportunities of jobs and travel would be greater.... i really don't know, and any advice/tips/guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Martina <dohertymartina@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 16:41:27 (GMT)

I've already had 2 days work experience in my local hospital (QMC) and really enjoyed it. Although i've been told i can't do much else there until i'm 18.
Damon <dj432@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 13:42:54 (GMT)

i mean compression!!! sorry about spelling must be the caffine taking over just a little sick of searching the net for info, so please be kind and help a poor,caffine swilling student.
chili
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 13:19:34 (GMT)

assignment
any help out there for me doing lit review on compressiom bandaging management, having diffculty on finding research for and agasint the treatment.any clues??
chili
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 13:15:02 (GMT)

Encouraging
I am very encouraged to hear that so many people are thinking about a career in nursing. as a disillusioned and cynical RMN i only hope that they continue to enjoy the job. I am in the process of leaving the nhs and leaving nursing, which i am finding very liberating!!
Lindsay <lindsay.j@lineone.net>
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 13:09:42 (GMT)

Experience
You can get paid experience Damon - working in a nursing home got me tons of hands on experience before I started my training and there are some quality nursing homes out there no matter what people say. Can your Sixth Form college arrange a placement for, say, one day a week at your local hospital?
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 11:58:16 (GMT)

Options at 16?
Hi i'm 16 at the moment, i'm really interested in becoming a nurse. I know that to become a qualified nurse you have to complete a course at Uni, but that's not until i'm 18. I'm in 6th Form at the moment, are there any options?, i mean can you do unpaid work to gain experience? or am i to young? Any advice would be nice thanks.
Damon <dj432@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, February 10, 2002 at 00:22:06 (GMT)

Cheers Mich for the info. Best of luck with the rest of your course. Barbs

- Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 21:12:24 (GMT)

barb
to give you some idea of what your letting yourself in for. stafford believe in home study you get out of it what you put in!! one exam for the three yrs, 9 modules 8 assignments,and you don't get the same holidays as the kids.you are allowed 28 sick days any more than that you see your tutor then the dean.quite afew study days reading wks etc.. but overall not a bad course,but saying that it may have all changed!!! they change things each intake. never mind,enjoy the course and make the most of it, it goes by dead quick.
mich
- Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 18:39:53 (GMT)

Hi Manda, Glad to hear your enjoying the course and have only few months to go. I'm due to start the diploma course in September. Can you give me some idea of the amount of assignments and essays given? Are there exams and essays during each module? and more importantly, do you have to study and do essays during the holidays? I have kids so just want to be prepared. Any other advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Barbs.

- Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 18:09:24 (GMT)

Anita and Mich
Hi Anita mate, I am on my critical care module at the moment and I'm really enjoying it. It can be a bit intense sometimes but my experience has been that you are never left in a situation that is out of your depth, and you work alot more closely with the qualified staff than you get to on the wards. You learn a hell of alot which has helped with my confidence as I was very apprehensive about this module. I have 2wks left on ITU and then 6wks in A&E, and fellow students that are there at the moment say it's brilliant. So good luck and hope you enjoy it! Hi Mich you must be with Group B Shrewsbury Adult group Laura, Anita, Kerry, Mel etc. I am Group A and we're having to travel to Stafford for lectures, we did have trouble one day as the mini-bus turned up 3/4 hr late at 9.30 and our lectures started at 10! It's a pain in the butt really as these are our last two modules and I'm sure you feel the same. But if the Confederation want bigger numbers in the intake it's going to get worse, the Uni is struggling for rooms and already! Anyway whinge over, only eight mths to go and counting! Take care both Manda
manda
- Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 10:44:59 (GMT)

want 2 give up
Can anyone tell me if the nhs gives out free nicotine patches. There about £18 in the shops for a box of 7.
tracy
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 23:46:38 (GMT)

staffs uni
hi manda, just thougt i'd let you know i'm also at staff uni but at the stafford site.having a few problems at the mo, until i qualify in sept our group has to travel to shrewsbury site every study day.it would help if just sometimes they remembered to book the coach!!!we've missed so many lectures the organasation as alot to be desired.but other wise enjoying the course. mich xxx
mich
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 20:45:17 (GMT)

fay, you must do something about this immediately, your colleagues are completely wrong to tell you to put up with it. please contact your uni immediately and get this pervert away from patients and staff. And to mary, im sorry if i offended you - i didnt mean to come across like that. but i do feel that nurses wearing trousers and tunics are identifiable due to the colour.
ange
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 20:04:33 (GMT)

Hi Fay - sorry to hear you are having to put up with this behaviour. This is NOT acceptable and you need to discuss the matter with the Ward Sister. If you don't feel she is taking you seriously then I would advise you to talk to your Uni.

- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 18:25:39 (GMT)

assault
I was feeling really great being a student nurse until this placement.A doctor that comes onto the ward has been harrassing me and trying to touch me,also saying disgusting things.I'm 18 and hes about 40.I'm scared as my colleagues are telling me just to put up with it but im very distressed and don't know what to do.
fay
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 18:16:16 (GMT)

actually, Linda I was referring to the days before hoists - when nurses were expected to bear the brunt of the weight of the patient. Does that make sense to you or would you rather nurse a broken back in bed whilst polishing your halo?
ange
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 18:13:09 (GMT)

student midwives
Is anyone else sick of the whole student midwives V student nurses thing ? At my uni it`s a constant debate as to which course is harder. One student midwife told me that her course was far more demanding than mine (mental health nursing) as she was specialising in one subject area. What did she think I was doing???
Julie
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 17:45:32 (GMT)

Manda
Nice one Manda!! I have also had pretty good placements so far and have just branched so will be doing critical care placements next-now that is scary!
Anita
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 16:45:48 (GMT)

Working abroad
I did an elective in the USA and was not at all impressed by nursing in America. They get paid more, but so does everyone else so the differential is no different. Nurses are treated as just another commodity by hospitals whose main aim is to make profit, so they employ more unqualified staff because they are cheaper. Thus the qualified nurse is there only to supervise and not give direct care. they talk a lot about autonomy but in fact do nothing without a doctor's signature because of the fear of litigation. oh, and on the subject of uniforms they all wear scrubs which looks very scruffy and unprofessional. I wore my "proper" uniform and the patients were all most impressed! So UK nursing is much better than in the US but I do fear we may be following them downhill.

- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 15:37:08 (GMT)

Just to Say
Would just like to add something to this site that is positive because there tends to be a greater focus on the negative aspects of Student Nurse life, although there is no smoke without fire and we do have to put up with alot of shit sometimes. I qualify in September and i unbelievely am still really enjoying the clinical aspect of my training, the academic side is sometimes pants but thats just shoddy Uni organisation and communication.I think I am still enjoying it though because, touch wood, I haven't had a shitty placement, yet!I am determined to learn as much as I can and no cynical,it was better in my day twat, is going to stop me! Manda
Manda
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 14:39:56 (GMT)

Joe Re: USA
Personally I would prefer to work here in the UK when my course ends in September - and anyway, according to some American nurse pals of mine, they don't get paid fantastic wages over there either and some of them even come over here for a job. I think the nursing situation seems to be similar all over the world, we want nurses, you want nurses, the Canadians and Australians want nurses e.t.c. e.t.c. ......I lived and worked abroad before - NEVER again!!!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 14:23:24 (GMT)

patients
Beth, I did not say how I would pick a patient up off the floor, I just said I would not do it without help. Sorry if I'm being picky, but using a hoist helps pick patients up off the floor doesn't it??? I am also led to believe that noone should use a hoist without the assistance of at least one person who has also been taught how to use the piece of equipment. Why do people on this site always take things so literally?
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 14:04:51 (GMT)

Shouldent you be using a hoist to lift from the floor
Beth
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 13:41:38 (GMT)

uniforms
Hey Ange don't get so angry. I just said several of my friends thought going back to wearing hats would be good. Personally I don't agree, by why are you so intolerant of other peoples opinions? I think lookingg professional does matter to patients so that is why I'm all in favour of wearing a uniform that is recognisable to them, ie dress, belt and buckle for qualified nurses. The whole point is that we should all have the choice.
Mary
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 08:40:15 (GMT)

patients
personally, I would not put the patient or myself at any risk by attempting to pick them up off the floor without help. Isn't the first rule of moving and handling to get the patient to do it themself if they can???
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 07:09:55 (GMT)

USA Jobs
Are the grads interested in coming to the USA as the pay is great and conditions are better. Company will pay all immigration expense and for any required exams. Drop a note
joe o <joeowen11@aol.com>
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 02:12:56 (GMT)

I was always told that hats were discontinued due to being a source of infection. You know carry the disease with you. But then I've never had a patient rub my head??? Tell us Ange, do you leave patients lying on the floor or ring for somebody else to help you pick them up....
Linda
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 01:12:25 (GMT)

Emma
Congratulations Emma!!!!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Friday, February 08, 2002 at 00:15:10 (GMT)

cant spell
that should be length!
ange
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 19:14:05 (GMT)

auxillaries
Sally, I think you have to be 17 to be an auxillary but im not sure - what do other people think? Pay isnt half as much as the job deserves, usually in nhs about £4 - £6 per hour depending on age, unsociable hours and lenghth of service
ange
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 19:13:27 (GMT)

counting down...........
Well done Emma! five weeks and I'll be joining ya'!!!
ange
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 19:10:58 (GMT)

auxilary
hi im 16 and im still too young to start nursing but ive heard that i could become an auxilary nurse.can you tell me what those duties involve.how much pay and is it any good thanks and well done emma too.
sally
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 19:02:46 (GMT)

Yesterday i finished the course. After 3 years of hard slog I am finally a qualified nurse..HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
emma
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 18:01:00 (GMT)

Ridiculous!
hats?!!!!!!!!!What a completely insulting, degrading and obtuse comment to make! I suppose you'd like to go back to the 12K salary and being expected to pick patients up off the floor etc........nursing has moved on - why don't you try it?
ange
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 17:30:46 (GMT)

Uniform
Out of interest, who was it that decided nurses should change from a dress to a tunic and trousers? Had nurses campaigned for a change or for a choice? I personally think the dress does look smarter although can understand the tunic and trousers being more practical on occasions, especially in light of comments made from the student nurse in Paeds. I guess as it's such a personal issue all you can do is give nurses a choice.

- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 17:03:54 (GMT)

Uniforms
Everyone I've asked would prefer to wear a dress with a belt. Several even said it would be good to go back to wearing hats. Personally I much prefer the smart look of a dress with a belt, the other reason is that my grandmother was a nurse and has promised me her silver buckle when I qualify. It would be a real shame if I never get to wear it.
Mary
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 15:15:20 (GMT)

I need a school!!!
I need help. I'm a junior in high schhol, and I'm graduating a semester early. I would like to have a carrer in nursing but I don't know where I should go to school. If anyone would really like to give me pointers on schools please do. Thanks
Cecilia <sexy_celia@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, February 07, 2002 at 02:49:30 (GMT)

Uniforms
Oh, I forgot to mention, our uniforms are white with green collar and navy trews - or plain white frock with green collar ......... and they are worse if you have been out in the rain!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 23:17:48 (GMT)

Uniforms
Where I train we can opt to have a complete set of tunics and trousers or dresses or a combination. I have tunic and trousers and dresses but never wear the dresses very often - one of the reasons I won't wear it is because I noticed how see through they are when the other lasses wear them and you can see all their thongs and stuff underneath them, so unless you can get a really thick cotton petticoat to go under them they are rather revealing! May be if they changed the colour ........ I must admit to liking the traditional nurses uniform though, you know the blue with the white frilly cuff sleeves, starched white apron e.t.c. e.t.c. Like the royal navy nurses wear!!!!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 23:16:41 (GMT)

cervical cancer statistics
can anyone tell me or where to find, the number of women who contract cervical cancer in the uk ........i can find Scotland,Ireland,USA,Canada......and a bloody give up!!!!!! any help would be appreciate any help
andrea <justin.gosney@btinternet.com>
- Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 21:41:09 (GMT)

Uniforms
Well done Jenny, you're totally right, we should have the choice of wearing a traditional style of uniform dress if we want to. This is an issue because there have been several recent letters in Nursing Standard and the subject came up on this site about a month ago. Yesterday and today I have tried an experiment. Yesterday I wore the tunic and trousers style, today I wore a dress with a belt. I tried to ask patients what they thought, tried to judge comfort and ease of movement and also how I felt about the image I projected. I know it's not a very scientific study but here are my results. I'm working on a gynae ward, so obviously the patients I asked were all women, but every single one of them thought we should wear the traditional style of uniform dress. They said things like "easy to identify the nurse" and "reassuring familiar image". Then I tried some lifting and bending to assess comfort. I actually thought the dress was more comfortable as the trousers were a bit too tight (ok so I've got a big bum). The dress was perfectly comfortable and I did not feel restricted and certainly didn't reveal my knickers to anyone when bending over as I think someone suggested. The other comfort issue was that the ward is very well heated and the dress was much cooler to wear, even more important in the summer. Finally my own self-image, this is difficult to explain but I felt much more "nursey" wearing a dress than the trouser suit! I hope some of you understand what I mean by that! Somebody made an insulting remark on an earlier posting about dresses allowing "pervy old men to look up your skirt". That is ridiculous! We don't wear our uniform in some "carry on nurse" style 6 inches above the knee and it is insulting to suggest we do. Those of us who wear a dress do so in a professional manner. So, all in all my vote is firmly in favour of the traditional style of uniform dress and belt, it is comfortable and most importantly looks professional, giving patients reassurance they do not perceive in an anonymous style of uniform. Surely the most important thing is that we a have a choice?
Sally
- Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 19:42:32 (GMT)

Stop dishing the tunic and trousers I happen to like mine. Yes we can be told apart from the different grades we wear white tunics (my one and only bug bear, it gets filthy) the staff nurses wear pink check the sisters wear blue and so on. Its just as easy as dresses and twice as more practical specially as I'm doing children's and I spend alot of time on my knees to get to the same level as the children and also its much more practical to have trousers on when your playing with the smaller children.
BETH
- Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 17:48:29 (GMT)

Uniforms
Jenny, I completely agree with you, we have to wear blue and white striped tunic and navy trousers, I would much prefer to wear a dress - I worked as an auxiliary nurse before starting my training - my uniform being a dress and belt - I never found it restictive when doing manual chores and I was allowed to choose the length. I understand some students may have previously resented dresses being compulsory but was it never considered that some us of may feel equally strongly about the imposition of the new shapeless tunic and trousers - I'd love to hear if any uni's still offer students a choice?

- Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 14:29:13 (GMT)

wrong e-mail
wrong e-mail address. Use this one. Mary
Mary ridley <Maryridley4@Hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 17:05:57 (GMT)

Life as a student nurse
I am considering(adult) nursing as a career but I hear very different views on what it is like to study for a nursing qualification. If anyone could e-mail me with some advice and information I`d be really grateful.I would particularly like to hear from people studying at Universities in Glasgow as that is where I`d probably study. Thanks.
Mary Ridley <maryridley@Hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 17:00:50 (GMT)

Sorry, Matt - Thought you were Mich!

- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 16:22:55 (GMT)

Uh?
Who wrote that??? Was it the ever elusive Becky Bowne?????????????????????????????? Reveal yourself.
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 15:35:57 (GMT)

Matt, shouldn't you be working on your assignment?!! GO ON, GO ON, GO ON!

- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 13:43:00 (GMT)

Dresses
There is NO way you're ever going to get me into a dress. My legs are far too hairy for a start. I also don't want old men perving on me. Anyway, since when has a dress been a 'real nursing uniform'? What's wrong with tunic and trousers? Surely you have the choice of which uniform to wear?
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 10:45:35 (GMT)

Jenny, all the female student nurses i know hate wearing a dress they all much presfer trouses and tunic whilst on placement. They give the reasons as being - the tunics give freedom of movement, we are not seen as young sexy nurses in a short skirt for men to perv on, all our uniforms are two shades of blue and most people now recognise that we are student nurses. Personnally i dont think it is that big an issue and there are certainly bigger and more pressing issues in the wonderfull world of nursing. n

- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 09:52:28 (GMT)

There was a letter in last weeks' Nursing Standard from a Student Nurse saying how she hates her tunic/trousers uniform and wants to wear a "real" nursing uniform of blue and white striped dress and belt. I really strongly agree and urge everyone to campaign for a return to proper uniforms. This is all about undermining our sense of professional identity. The government wants to develop a generic health worker in place of the individual professions. If we all look alike it makes the task easier, hence tho development of the characterless tunic and trousers style worn by everyone from nurses to technicians and cleaners. Think of it from the patient's point of view, how easy is it to identify who is a nurse from who is a HCA/ECG technician or cleaner? The arguement always put forward is that traditional uniforms restrict freedom of movement. This is simply not true, the use of pleats in a well designed dress allows complete freedom of movement and wearing a belt does not restrict bending etc. I am a student nurse at UEA in Norwich. Until recently we wore a really smart blue and white striped dress with pleats to allow unrestricted bending etc and a red elasticated belt. It looked smart and was comfortable ans safe to wear. Now they make us wear blue tunic and trousers and we all feel we have lost something vital. At least we should be allowed the choice. All you men out there, I know this doesn't apply to you, but please understnd our depth of feeling on this. I am proud to be a nurse and want to look like a nurse!
Jenny
- Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 09:11:52 (GMT)

Tea Duties
I got my full credentials today, so I'm finally legal. Role on the back wages, my employer could withhold. Remember, you get paid the same to serve tea/coffee as you do to give meds and all the other "glamourous" nursely duties....

- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 22:48:14 (GMT)

I love it.
Most of the time I love my job as an HCA Grade B. I thank God everyday that I have the health and strength to look after those who need help and care. I have been doing it for over 30 years now. Good luck and happiness to you all, you have chosen the best job in the world.
Mick
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 21:59:40 (GMT)

I love it.
Most of the time I love my job as an HCA Grade B. I thank God everyday that I have the health and strength to look after those who need help and care. I have been doing over 30 years now. Good luck and happiness to you all, you have chosen the best job in the world.
Mick
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 21:59:00 (GMT)

Essays
Here is a site which may be useful for essay tips: www.virtualrn.synobyte.com/forums go to the student underground then essays, take a look!
Laura
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 20:50:55 (GMT)

i am about to study at the university of surrey, guildford. Anybody here studying there? What is the course like. I will be undertaking placements in chichester, West Sussex. Would love to hear from other students just starting
Jill
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 20:42:29 (GMT)

how about the comparison between quantatative and qualitative research?

- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 19:03:52 (GMT)

To any doubters out there, Nursing is the best job in the world! Ok, I will never be rich but I do finish the day knowing I've done something worthwhile. I worked for 2 years in a solicitors office earning 25K before starting training as a Nurse. Now I'm poorer financially but I get a real buzz from Nursing and take a real pride in putting on a blue uniform dress for work rather than a business suit. So stop whingeing and get Nursing.

- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 16:42:54 (GMT)

research
help, really do need the help now.assignment in nxt wk on research critique still havent got a topic! been ill for last 3 weeks couldnt face the work.so could do with the help.big thanks for anything given.
mich
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 13:42:07 (GMT)

Thanks Brian
Cheers Brian, I'll check the site out. How would you rate the academic level of the course say 1-10?

- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 11:51:45 (GMT)

Preparing for Nurse Training
Go and take a look at CyberNurse UK especially their essay section, Excellent! it has helped me no end, it will be of great help to you, The url is:- www.cybernurse.org.uk Best of luck Brian
Brian
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 11:24:47 (GMT)

Preparing for Nurse Training
Nurse Tutor, I am a mature student and have been an offered a place at Uni to undertake the DipHE in nursing. I have the right amount of formal qualifications to gain entry and obviously passed the Uni tests and group interview. I have always worked but have not undertaken study for years. The Uni did not ask me for evidence of recent study ( which I thought they would) and I do have apprehensions regarding the essays and assignments as it's been such a long time since I've done any!! Would you recommend I have a chat with the Uni?

- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 10:51:45 (GMT)

RE Friggin tea lady
To all Miss/Mr attitudes When will student nurses (and some qualified staff)learn that nursing is not glamorous, patients needs are often very basic. I understand your frustration. I hear it often from my own students, "I keep being used as a pair of hands or an auxiliary". Think of the patients hydration needs! Without adequate hydration patients healing is impaired and various complications may occur. In short stop winging and get on with the job. If we don't get the basics Feeding , cleaning, hygiene, sleep, rest and exercise right, we might as well forget the rest. I am not sure whether Miss attitude is in the right job. Nurse Teacher
julie <julieglentop@aol.com>
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 10:46:48 (GMT)

Preparing for nurse training
Reiterate advice of student earlier. I would advise anyone who is applying as a mature entry student to undertake an access coure rather than DC test. It will prepare you for the written assignments . I appreciate these are more costly in time and money, but a worthwhile investment. Of course if you have been researching information and writing assignments as part of your work/study since leaving school you may be equally well prepared. If in doubt contact your local shool of nursing and ask to speak to the recruitment office, a Nurse teacher/lecturer for advice.
Nurse Tutor
- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 10:31:57 (GMT)

I'm afraid I think Hobbes takes himself too seriously and writes vast tracts of self-opinionated text. Sorry, time to move on Hobbes. Ever thought of writing for The Guardian? Should suit your style.

- Monday, February 04, 2002 at 08:12:33 (GMT)

In reply to Jean:
Thanks for replying! Your placement sounds great - really interesting and varied. I'll let you know how it goes! Marianne

- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 22:43:04 (GMT)

Midwifery
RE: to Barbara's earlier list,for the 3 year direct entry course Stafford has recently stopped offering the diploma, now only offers the degree.

- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 22:14:43 (GMT)

Re: Community Placement
Hi, Just finished my first week on a community placement, loving it......... If you're mentor is anything like mine get down on your knees and thank God........ Honest!! Just give it a good go, get out and see as much as you can. So far in week one have been out with health visitor, community nurse, visited a drugs help line,a womens refuge and two mother and baby groups... Hope you'll have as much FUN as I am...... Good luck..
Jean
- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 22:08:09 (GMT)

Starting my first placement tommorrow morning - it's a community placement. Am very nervous! Any advice?

- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 21:31:29 (GMT)

hobbes may well be a qualified mental health nurse but we need people like him. He doesn't forget what life is like as a student nurse. His comments and advice are well appreciated on this site. Keep posting Hobbes, we all need ya!!
tanya
- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 20:07:32 (GMT)

1st day
does anyone want to tell us about their 1st day ever on a placement, as i've just had mine and i was left on my own most of the time but my 2nd day was brill.see you folks. hobbes is a great asset to this website so please be kind to him.we love you hobbes xxxx
paula
- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 18:29:18 (GMT)

Re: Hobbes
Whoever Hobbes is, please give it a rest. You appear to take it all very seriously and want to give us all the benefit of your wisdom. It sounds like you are a qualifed nurse, so why not graduate to a message-board in keeping with your high status and leave this one to us student nurses? Thanks and good luck for the future.

- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 17:42:27 (GMT)

Midwifery
Let's not forget The University of Sheffield, who run the advanced diploma in Midwifery studies!
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 13:43:55 (GMT)

Sorry, I did type them out as a list but they haven't come out as one. Basically I have said the name of the Uni with the town after! I'm sure you can make sense of it somehow! Barbs

- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 12:38:35 (GMT)

Midwifery courses
The following are uni's that offer the DipHE in Midwifery: Bournemouth University Coventry University School of Nursing De Montfont University, Leicester Edge Hill Uni, Liverpool Kings College Uni, London Kingston Uni & St Georges Med School, London Liverpool John Moores Uni Middlesex Uni, Lodon University College, Northampton Stafford Uni, Stafford Suffolk College, Ipswich University College, Chester To name but a few! If none of these are in your area, let me know specifically where you would like to go, as I have the NHS booklet on courses, etc. Hope this helps. Barbara

- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 12:36:43 (GMT)

meeting
i would like to meet some british people , because , i go to huddersfield, tomorow, and so if you want to ,we can meet together
steve <steve_lat@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 08:02:51 (GMT)

Dip He Midwifery
Ange, is that the (shortened) 18 month course or direct entry dip He? Most places offer 18 month course for RN's (adult)for which you'll usually recieve D/E grade salary during training. As for 3 year Dip He, available quite widely in the south, only degree's available in the midlands, a few Diploma courses up north, however many places starting to only offer the degree for midwifery.

- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 21:21:59 (GMT)

Med Secs
Hi Hobbes and Mrs Hobbes - I couldn't agree with you more, it is a noble profession. Like most of the NHS employees it's not the lush surroundings (I once worked for a consultant and my office was in a disused cupboard!!) the money or the perks that keeps you there, but the loyalty you have for your colleagues and the patients. It's time to do some different that's all.

- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 19:47:08 (GMT)

midwives!
does anyone know which uni's offer the dip HE in midwifery studies? thanks!
ange
- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 19:36:46 (GMT)

Medical secretaries
Hey don't knock this noble profession! Mrs Hobbes has been one for sometime and in a couple of different environments and is well exposed to crap that we nurses face. Jeez our ward could'nt function without our ward clerk.
Hobbes
- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 18:08:51 (GMT)

Hobbes, in a nutshell I suppose I'm stressing about my abilities to be a nurse. Perhaps analysing things for hours was a slight exaggeration! I've got months to go before starting my training which is too much time to doubt EVERYTHING! Only time will tell! I've worked in the NHS as a Medical Secretary which hardly puts me on the front line but I have a good insight into how everything ticks over in the NHS, the staff, etc. I've reached the grand old age of 37 with two kids and just want to do more with my life than sit at a desk! I WORRY TOOO MUCH!! Cheers.

- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 14:42:56 (GMT)

Intense Bubbly Blond
You say you take "emotions" home an analyse them for hours. What do you mean? Is it your ability to do the job, your own competence or is it the clients and the problems they have? You've stated that you've been in the NHS for 18 years, I don't know in what capacity but I would have thought that sort of grounding would more than prepare you for life as a nurse. Having fears about your ability to do the job is ok, everyone feels that way. Christ if you did'nt worry then you would have a problem. If its the clients that get to you, well nobody expects you to walk around like a robot all day being immune to the things you see and hear. Its difficult to know why you feel the need to analyise everything, I don't know you. It would be interesting to know how you resolve these analysing sessions. If this over-analysising is a problem. Then try to treat it as a de-briefing session. What did I do? Was it right? How did I feel? What have a learned? What would I do differently? Try not to think about things in an negative way. Set a time limit to think about things then leave it, go and watch eastenders, have a curry, have a couple of glasses of wine. Easier said than done I know, but practice it. You don't strike me as being overly intense, just pretty normal really. Anyone who states that they leave their jobs totally at work and don't think about things when home is a liar.
Hobbes
- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 13:59:12 (GMT)

Ahh Ward Manager...
As professional as ever.
Hobbes
- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 12:40:35 (GMT)

ward manager...you are back...obviously to stir up some strife again!!!!

- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 10:56:06 (GMT)

HOBBES
Hobbes, you are an asset to this site, and a credit to the nursing profession. I hope you will feel welcome to continue to contribute today, tomorrow and from New Zealand. I urge all other readers to join me in expressing their appreciation for Hobbes by means of a message on this board......
Regular Reader
- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 10:55:49 (GMT)

Hobbes you're a right dickhead stop writing on this site please.
Ward Manager
- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 10:45:06 (GMT)

Serious Question
I don`t know how helpful this will be but here goes. Have you tried looking at the following documents: 1992 UKCC Code of Professional Conduct (available on the internet I believe) 1998 UKCC Guide for Students of Nursing and Midwifery My Collins Dictionary of Nursing (1998) defines as follows: ACCOUNTABILITY (in nursing) the obligation of being answerable for one`s own judgements and actions to an appropriate person or authority recognised as having the right to demand information and explanation, according to the terms of reference of the Code of Professional Conduct. A REGISTERED practitioner is accountable for her actions as a professional at all times, on or off duty,whether engaged in current practice or not. RESPONSIBILITY (in nursing) the state of being answerable for one`s performance according to the terms of reference of the Code of Professional Conduct. It involves demonstrating commitment and trustworthiness during the performance of care through devolved authority. Nurses WHETHER REGISTERED OR NOT) are responsible for their acctions at all times. I suppose what that means for us students is that while accountability ultimately lies with the qualified member of staff under whose supervision we practice (i.e. the book stops there), we have to be responsible for our practice, i.e. we should ensure we do not practice outside our level of competency, we should practice according to the Code of Profesional Conduct and in a safe manner etc. (more on responsibility in Code of Professional Conduct). If anything goes wrong in your practice and you have not acted responsibly then the "But, I`m only a student" argument won`t cut it and you could be held accountable. That`s my understanding anyway, but I don`t profess to be an expert so shop around for other ideas. Good luck with the interview. I love being a student nurse, despite all the pitfalls which do exist. Jacks
Jacks <jackie.lyth@bushinternet.com>
- Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 01:00:07 (GMT)

Serious question
Going for interview. What is the difference between accountability and responsibility? This is supposed to be an often asked question but I cannot find a good definition.
Michelle
- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 22:38:45 (GMT)

CAMBRIDGE NURSE WINS SURGICAL NURSING AWARD AT NURSING STANDARD NURSE 2001
dfesrvav
admin <Billy@hottotrot.com>
- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 22:28:21 (GMT)

bursary
I am about to start the diploma course, and have been sent details of the bursary. there is an item on the list called General Disregard. CAN ANYONE ADVISE ME , WHAT ON EARTH THIS IS. Thanks Cath
cath
- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 21:05:26 (GMT)

Too sensitive ??!
Hobbes, I can honestly say the money is not an issue, worked for the NHS for the past 18 years (know it's crap!), I get stressed but can handle it pretty well, feeling tired all the time - I have kids so pretty much used to that also! However, I do wonder whether I'm tough enough. I can empathise with people and I like to fix things emotionally for them giving advice when I can and generally offering support. BUT I am sensitive by nature. I wouldn't openly sob or anything if something or someone upset me but I think about things a lot and can take things to heart. Don't get me wrong, I've been around the block once or twice and can stick up for myself but I'm the type to take emotions home and analyse a situation for hours!! I guess, I'm wondering if I'm emotionally tough enough for the job? Does this sound like the making of a good nurse?? Be honest! PS. I've made myself sound incredibly intense - I do have a really good sense of humour too and the majority of the time I'm a really bubbly blonde! I've so many doubts about this course - it's becoming an obsession! Time for Eastenders and a curry.

- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 19:31:12 (GMT)

Thanks, Hobbes for all your advice and info. Reading your past comments on this site, I can tell you feel passionately about nursing (or at least mental health!) Unfortunately, as I can only manage a part-time course I am offered no choice and have to study adult nursing. Just to add, correct me if I'm wrong, but according to the NHS pay info for April 2001 I thought a newly qualified nurse coming in to the NHS on a Grade D could expect between £15,445 and £17,055. Sounds slightly better doesn't it!!

- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 18:32:55 (GMT)

Why become a nurse?
Depends on what you want. Can you surive on £14000-£16000 a year? Can you handle stress? Do you mind feeling pretty tired all the time? Do you rarely lose your rag? Do you like perks in a job? If the answer is no then don't do nursing. If you can survive the money, you wil feel pretty damn proud being a nurse, despite all the shit. There is nothing quite like that feeling when you know your qualified. As I've said below, the job, the sometimes awfulness of the job teaches you all sorts of skills that you would never think you posessed. After six months in the job it changes you big time. Will I be in the job in ten years? Who Knows but I'll never regret training and doing the job. OH yeah make sure your doing Mental Health.
Hobbes
- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 17:50:57 (GMT)

Training
Can't remember how many assignments you get its dependent on the course your doing. However they tend to come around when you have the least time, like when your on placement, in the middle of giving birth, that sort of thing. People drop out because they realise that for the amount of money its probably not worth it, or the course is just rubbish, others I've known, have died, but that's abit extreme,(RIP-John, you would have made a fine nurse), some just can't do it academically, (whether thats a reflection on them being potentialy good nurses, who knows). Most get through the course and gain confidence, maturity and become sound members of society. More so than somebody earning 3 times as much sitting in front of a computer I think. The reason is the job requires you to work in a high-pressure/under-resourced environment, where dealing with one crisis after another is the norm. You become a leader and you become assertive. As to "O" levels they went out in the 1980's and are now called GCSE's, you need around six of them to get on the diploma.
Hobbes
- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 17:38:09 (GMT)

Recommend becoming a nurse?
Does anyone out there recommend nursing as a career?? Having serious, serious doubts about doing the training. A lot of you seem 'burnt-out' already!

- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 17:30:41 (GMT)

Gizza job
Alreet, Hoping to get picked up by a London Uni for an adult nursing diploma, and having been accustomed to the cheap and cheerful delights of the North East, I'm kinda worried about surviving financially in the 'Smoke'. Although not a "spotty faced nerd", I don't quite have the bod for the lucrative male escort/stripping business, so I'm resigned to getting part-time health care work to make ends meet. Anyone out there got any handy hints or tips for decent paid relevant work in the Capital? ..... Do nursing agencies cater for unqualified first year stoodees, or am I best off hawking my talents myself? Any advice is most welcome. Cheers, Geordie Andy
Geordie Andy <andybrowell@hotmail.com>
- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 15:02:54 (GMT)

Please tell me how many assignments you get per semester? How much 'homework' do you get per week? I have family committments and wondered how much time outside Uni I would have to put aside for assignments/studying/reading etc per week. Also what is level O exam?? I understand too that many students drop out of the course. Why is this? I mean is it due to the academic work/bad placements or a mixture of both?!! Thanks for your time.

- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 14:40:25 (GMT)

Stereotypes, revenge!
Try this stereotype then: "Tina the teenage nurse". Tina went to uni straight from school. She didn't really know what course to do but thought nursing would mean she could spend a lot of time holding peoples hands and smiling sweetly, none of that awful book work you have to do on other courses. Tina has no experience of life outside of the small town where she was born. All she wants is to "have a good time". She knows a lot about text messages but can't spell or string an intelligent sentence together. Her idea of an intellectual newspaper is the Sun. Tina likes parties, in fact she is often hung-over and late for placements. Tina giggles a lot in answer to difficult questions. Tina likes boys a lot, in fact she always wears her uniform 6 inches shorter than is sensible because she knows the effect that can have on this week's boyfriend. On her first ward placement Tina was shocked that all patients are not grateful little old ladies who tell you how wonderful you are, she particularly disliked having to clear up faeces from a demented lady's bed who didn't even say thank you. Tina might learn to be a good nurse in about 10 years when she has matured into an adult.

- Friday, February 01, 2002 at 10:56:56 (GMT)

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