Student Nurse Messages - January 2002

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LATEST MESSAGES

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Part-time students and Bucks Uni info
Absolutely agree with your comments, no one should feel bad for working for part-time. I presume the person that questioned the committment of the part-time students doesn't have children at the moment! re: family accommodation around Bucks. The Uni do have contacts for accommodation near to the Uni so again chat to them about it. Chalfont is an expensive area to live in, however, if you have a car, it may be worth living a bit further away to get cheaper rent. If the Uni cannot help, let me know and I'll try to help you further as I know the area really well. Barbara

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 22:51:42 (GMT)

Bucks
Thanks for the info on Buckingham uni, I'll give them a call - how expensive is family accomodation around there?

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 21:36:20 (GMT)

Childcare
Yes, well at least you had a husband who was although wasn't there alot of the time - could at least contribute to supporting you and your children. So please don't criticise me for complaining about the injustice of the lack of financial help for childcare - when it means I'll supporting myself and two children on £25 a week, compared to £130 a week if I lived on benefits.(not that I'd have to - I've been a working mother with a well paying job and with my qualifications could just as easily go out and get another one)

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 21:30:39 (GMT)

Part time students
To the person questioning the commitment of part time students, well yes if I was on the wage of a qualified nurse I wouldn't have any problem making childcare provision for shifts etc, but on a student bursary with zilch assistance for childcare costs and without a husband to support me - paying for provision 24/7 is an impossibility. And anyway why should a worker in any proffesion be made to feel bad if they opt to work part time or even not at all?

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 21:18:22 (GMT)

I haven't started the course yet, but it's comments like yours that really do make me think why should I bother! I guess what you must keep saying to yourself is that you don't have to be there for ever. Try not to let this experience get you down. When you're qualified you'll be able to pick and choose where you work. Have a large gin, hot bath and a good moan - usually does the trick!

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 17:45:36 (GMT)

The information booklet on nursing careers said "carer, teacher, manager, diplomat, researcher... these are all roles you will find yourself as a nurse in the NHS". So why have I just spent the day on a ward with virtually no qualified permanent staff and not enough equipment acting mmainly as a cleaner and lavatory attendant? I would discuss this with one of the course lecturers but we never see them anywhere near an actual patient. I have learnt nothing today except how to muddle through, how to give third rate care, how to be exhausted and frustrated. When I started I was so proud to be learning to be a nurse. I was proud to wear my uniform. Now I just don't know anymore, I care deeply for the patients but I can't see myself doing this for the next 20 years. Time for a cup of tea before I make you all cry!

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 17:16:28 (GMT)

child v. adult
Just finishing ADNS Child. I have thoroughly enjoyed the course and would not have considered adult. You are tied to child although this is not as restrictive as it sounds. Vacancies are not always advertised in open press as first chance is usually given to students to apply. Good luck with the course.

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 16:41:43 (GMT)

I understand that nursing is a 24/7 job but if the nursing profession is to recruit and retain staff, more flexibility has to be built-in to the work place. My thinking is that if more universities offered part-time courses with family flexible hours then at least more people would be recruited in the first place or at least stay on the course. Once qualified and in post, at least you would know exactly where you working and what shifts you were needed to work enabling you to make provision for childcare etc. I do know from friends that are nurses that some trusts offer very flexible contracts, ie. term time only, etc. which also encourages qualified nurses who have left to have families to return to work. Let's face it the NHS needs nurses - we should at least try to make it easier and more flexible for everyone who would like to join.

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 16:29:53 (GMT)

I really do admire those of you ho want to train part time because you have children etc, but when you qualify will you be able to work evenings, weekends, nights and school holidays? If not the work load will increase on the rest of us I'm afraid. Nursing is a 24/7 profession (unless you're a health visitor, but then what do they do of any use anyway?). Still, good luck anyway.

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 15:31:49 (GMT)

Child versus adult
Have you thought about doing some voluntary work? I rang up the voluntary unit at my local hospital, said I was interested in nursing, and by the next week had a placement on one of the surgical wards. Have learnt loads. I said I could only do the odd Saturday afternoon for a few hours. It does give you a good insight into the profession. If you were able to do some voluntary work (only if you do one afternoon, say) on a Paediatric ward at least you could have a chat with the nurses with regards to your future. Always worth a try! Barbara.

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 14:49:03 (GMT)

Interview
Due to have interview next Tuesday for first staff nurse post (paeds) Due to qualify April. Any Suggestions?
Michelle
- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 13:37:38 (GMT)

yes how can they call those hours part-time. The course in Chalfont St Giles sounds perfect, location and everything!

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 12:54:13 (GMT)

Re: City Uni
I don't understand how they can call the course a part-time course with those hours?! Can you come to Bucks Uni? The Uni is based in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire and is a rural campus set in beautiful grounds, but there is accommodation on the campus and there are towns nearby. There is also a bus that runs from the campus taking students to Chalfont & Latimer tube station (5 mins away by car). The tube is on the Metropolitan Line. The main hospitals used by the Uni are: Hillingdon Hosp, Mount Vernon, Royal Brompton & Harefield, Ealing, West Middlesex, Hammersmith and I think Charing Cross Hospital. Give them a ring and have a chat about full and part-time courses available. Tel: 01494 522141. Hope this is useful info. Barbara

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 09:39:14 (GMT)

One of my instructors put it to me this way: When you work you do shifts, when you train you do shifts. You knew this going in Nursing isn't an office hours job. And yes I did it full time, with two children and a husband in the forces who was away alot. No family to help out with childcare. You pay for it and grit your teeth.

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 02:16:50 (GMT)

Just started the nursing program at City University and not too pleased with the location of the accomodation---VERY dodgy area, far from school and placements, not on tube line etc. Apparently the only option is to 'find my own place'---very helpful!!!. Would like to know which universities in London have decent accomodation, close to school, placements and tube. Am willing to change schools over this!!!! I

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 01:41:55 (GMT)

About to start!
Hi everyone, Well I'm about to start my training in March.I would welcome comments and/or any advice that will help me to prepare and to know what to expect.I'll look forward to reading your views.Thank you very much.
Michael Rusling
- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 01:19:37 (GMT)

Part time courses
The new part time course at Bucks sounds great, I'm applying for the 4 year part time course at City uni, however they tell me its 10-4 monday to friday and on placements we'll be required to do 37.5 hours a week without any guarantee of flexibility. Taking into account travelling time this means I'll still be having to arrange virtually full time childcare provision 9-5 during study blocks and then renegotiate fee's and hours again with the childminder every time I go on placement (for 1 baby and 1 child at school). To be quite honest (from past experience of a full time course) I think they could probably fit in lectures during study blocks into a 10-2 day (with half hour lunch) which would be much easier for parents with children at school (which usually finishes at 3.15) Even the university has said that lectures probably won't run 10 all the way through to 4 everyday but as those are the official hours I'll have to pay all the time to have provision for those hours. I can understand also the university not being able to guarantee flexibiltiy in terms of hours on placements especially as we'd be likely to miss important elements of the shift such as handover if we didn't have the same start/finish times as the staff, however if we had allocated clinical practice days each week e.g thursday and friday, rather than placement blocks, then arranging the a set weekly fee with the childminder taking into account extended hours on those 2 days of the week would also be much easier. The bursary on the part time diploma course is 75% of that of the full time course, and for degree students its 75% of the degree bursary + you are not entitled to the loan component.

- Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 00:25:35 (GMT)

child versus adult
I am about to start The Diploma in Child nursing on 04 march, and like any new recruit feeling a little aprehensive at chosen the correct branch( as have no experinece yet). After looking at the job vacancies on the local NHS website, ther don't seam to be many which specialise in Paeds. After qualifying would I restricted to working in a childrens ward, or can you move to other wards.
cath bickerton <paulcath@bickertonp.fsnet.co.uk>
- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 22:39:21 (GMT)

lyn
i wouldn't bother with a DC test. I sat one twice. They are a mixture of maths (fractions/decimals)and IQ. They are not so much hard but pressured. You have about 30 seconds for each question!! The pass rate is about 30%. I was 2 points short of passing it the second time round despite revising hard. I would recommend an access course to prepare you for essay writing/studying. Whatever you decide best of luck

- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 21:58:49 (GMT)

I haven't been doing the adult placement for long.However I instantly knew as soon as my 2nd day on the ward had finished that I should have chosen child branch as I feel more comfortable nursing children.Plus a couple of my friends have settled so well into the childrens wards and have no doubts. Thankyou for your help and I've made an appointment for next week to chat to my supervisor.I hope she will be able to help me in deciding where my future lies.
janette
- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 21:30:59 (GMT)

Hi Janette, I'm sorry you have got yourself so down over the situation. You must seek some support from the Uni - nothing is worth making yourself ill over. I haven't yet started the diploma course but can completely understand how difficult it must be with kids and coping with full-time education. Again, clear evidence that part-time courses must be made more available. Is there anyone you can talk to at your Uni about the problem you are experiencing at home? They may be able to offer you more regular hours? How long have you been doing your adult placement? Why do you wish you had chosen the child branch?

- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 21:02:53 (GMT)

turmoil
I have just started my 1st placementin adult branch and I'm not too keen.I tghink I would have preffered child.Also I have problems at home as my child isn't happy with not seeing me at regular times.One minute I think I should quit,other times I'm willing myself to keep on nursing.I've got myself in such a state I feel ill.Please could some one give me some advice before I finally crack up..thanks
janette
- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 20:29:40 (GMT)

DC test.
I have got to sit a DC test soon to undergo my nurse training, can anyone tell me if they have sat-one and what are they like? Thanks for your help. Love Lynxxx
Lyn Baker
- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 20:22:12 (GMT)

Electives abroad
If you are at a uni that has a medical school try asking there. Medical students often do foreign electives and there is usually a "helpful information" file somewhere. My boyfriend is a med student and recently went to South Africa, wish I could have gone with him! After all, what is OK for med students should be OK for student nurses too.

- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 14:40:17 (GMT)

i'm attempting to sort out an elective but instead i'm going slowly mad!!! has anyone worked abroad (south amearica, malawi or just anywhere!)? If anyones got any hints or contacts i would really appreciate the favour. please help!!!!!!
jo <johannacima>
- Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 10:45:48 (GMT)

I will be entitled to £5139.00/year (over 26yrs old). I've been working part-time from home up until now as a Medical Secretary and to be honest the bursary plus child benefit doesn't come way below what I've been earning (at least I get 12 weeks paid holiday!). I'm definitely going to do some research into why more uni's don't offer the part-time course as there is clearly a need. There is a hugh recruitment drive to get people into nursing. Offering part-time courses would be a big step in redressing the balance, enabling people, like myself, an opportunity that otherwise would not exist. I will definitely look into this and let you all know what I find out. Barbara

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 19:50:00 (GMT)

I give up I came into uni after doing a 7 hour shift in theatre to get some artical and do some work on my portfolio I have to do on this placement and as usual I have come to the wrong campus (let me explan in my uni their are two different campusis for nursing, one for adult nursing and another on the other side of the city for the mental health, child, learning disabilitys and midwifery) and since i'm doing childrens and my placement is in a pediatric theatre I came to the branch campus only to find that all the articals I need are in the other campus!!!!aaaaaaarrrrrrgggggg this always happens. I'm going home now cause i'm tired and hungry and I have to get up at 6 for tomorrows shift
Beth
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 19:49:39 (GMT)

i think its great that uni's are at last offering part time nursing courses. What is the pay like though? Do you get a bursery?

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 19:14:21 (GMT)

I feel so much admiration for all you students but especially those who are trying to balance full-time study with kids. Anita - you are an inspiration to us all - I don't know how you do it?! Your determination and hard work will, I'm sure pay off in the end. Here's wishing you a very happy and successful career in nursing. Barbara

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 19:08:06 (GMT)

Part Time????
God!! A part time course!! Now that would be wonderful! My daughter would get more time with me and a childminder would not be needed - I wouldnt have to cram a job in as well to enable me to get WFTC which in turn enables me to afford the childminder! Yes wouldn't that be bliss?
Anita
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 18:37:14 (GMT)

Thanks for all your advice and encouraging words. The placement hours do concern me. I'm not trying to get out of doing the hours, it's just that the reason for doing the part-time course over the 4 years is so that I can manange the time around my children. Is a contract necessary from the Uni? I've got a feeling that they wont be very helpful! I wonder where that will leave me? Barbara

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 18:12:03 (GMT)

There was a reason for coming onto this site! Does anyone have information relating to district nurse health promotion regarding the elderly and housing, or if there is a website or books/journal that I could refer to.... Thanks..
Dawn <lolnursey@yahoo.co.uk>
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 17:32:49 (GMT)

Barbara
I am sure that if Chester had a part-time course as with Edgehill in Liverpool half of the people on the course would have grabbed it with two hands and feet! I left a secretarial job of 15 years (I am now 31 - just married 3 weeks!) and turned to nursing never having done any care work in the past. It is hard work and most people with kids are studying for about an hour a day, just don't overload yourself, it's like anything else in life, it always seems really hard at first but give yourself a couple of months to settle in, and don't be deterred by your first placement which can sometimes be an eye opener. Be determined with your Ward Manager over your hours and if necessary take in your part-time contract to clarify any points with them. In my group there are 5 people over the age of 40 who have never done nursing and with families (and 1 has a grand child!) if they can do it, so can you!. Good Luck...
Dawn
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 17:30:32 (GMT)

Come on you Blades!

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 17:05:49 (GMT)

Go for it Barbara! Nursing is fantastic. I will always remember the thrill I felt the first time I put my uniform on, looked in the mirror and saw a nurse looking back. It's the best job in the world, but I agree with the others, looking after patients and learning practically is great, lectures and essays can be awful.

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 16:59:19 (GMT)

Barbara. I really hope it goes OK for you, but I am a bit cynical about "family friendly" shifts. Like so many things in the NHS in my experience the politicians say one thing but it never happens in reality. Hard pressed managers and Ward Sisters have to cover the shifts and the whole idea of "family friendly" is ignored in the reality of work. Sorry to sound negative, but I suggest you get a firm guarantee of the hours you will have to work on placements, and get it in writing as they tend to "forget" verbal promises. sue.
Sue
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 16:52:11 (GMT)

PART-TIME DIPLOMA COURSES
It's occurred to me on reading through all the messages that like me many of you are 'mature' students with children. Most of you express high stress levels as a result of coping with the low bursary and childcare costs plus having a job, not to mention all the work that goes with bringing up children and studying. As indicated in my recent message, I have been offered a place on the adult diploma course but on a PART-TIME basis. On researching nursing courses I realised that were very few universities offering part-time courses. This does mean that instead of 3 years in college it will take 4 years but it also means that I'm in college only 3 days a week, 10-3pm, enabling me to drop my children off and pick them up from school. The practice placements are for only 24 hours per week instead of the 37 and offer family flexible shifts (so they say!). I will get 12 weeks holidays all to coincide with the kids holidays. I was really lucky in that the Uni nearest to me offered this type of family flexible course. Why don't they offer more part-time courses like this? I am sure there are many of you, had you been given the choice, that would have preferred the part-time option. I'd be interested to hear your opinions. Barbara

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 16:26:02 (GMT)

That's right, sorry for any misunderstanding. I certainly admire your guts and intention to be a nurse. I t just drives me mad that they think writing essays makes a good nurse. Of course we need a sound knowledge base but the whole thing has just gone too far away from learning practical nursing. #i'm afraid they are all obsessed with the professional status of nursing which to lecturers in uni depts just means academic status, the poor old patient gets forgotten. Anyway, good luck and I hope you make an excellent "hands on " nurse.

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 15:50:15 (GMT)

scary stuff
i can identify with you a bit barbara.i'm 27 and am leaving a 6 yr career in the forces to start a nursing dip this year. and i'm terrified at the thought of being a povvy stoodent!
jb
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 15:50:03 (GMT)

Sorry- it's been a long day! I realise now you were having a dig at the educationalists not me.
Barbara
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 14:53:11 (GMT)

Sorry whoever you are that my question has annoyed you! I don't quite understand why? I was simply asking the question to current students about how much time outside Uni would I have to put aside for study. I'm well aware the profession requires people that can 'nurse' but unfortunately to be in a position to do just that we need to go to University and pass the exams (I didn't make the rules). Perhaps I didn't explain myself. I am a mature student of 37 who has family committments and a job. I have been offered a place at Uni but going back to study as a mature student is downright scary and takes guts. I don't want to get to Uni and find that I cannot cope with the volume of work. As I explained I am asking the question because the Uni seem unable to answer it. Sorry to be so annoying!!
Barbara
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 14:47:53 (GMT)

Barbara, it's great that you are keen, but the need to ask the question annoys me! When will nurse educationalists realise that nursing is about caring for people, not writing essays? We are ending up with a nursing workforce that doesn't know how to NURSE but can write a damn good essay!

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 14:06:13 (GMT)

how much work??
I am due to start the the adult diploma course (part-time)in September 2002 at Buckingham University. I have two children aged 4 and 6yrs. I am aware there is a lot of work to get through but could someone give me an idea of how much work you are supposed to do in a typical week. Are you expected to revise and produce assignments in the holidays? I asked the Uni but they seem a bit vague! I understand the course will be hard work and there are loads of essays but I need to be prepared in light of my home committments. In other words, will I have a life at all! Thanks for any advice. Barbara
Barbara <lindsays@btinternet.com>
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 11:57:32 (GMT)

Managers and Money
All the public service professions in the UK are underpaid - the sign behind Tony Blair on his TV speech the other day said it all - doctors, nurses, teachers, police, social workers. Low pay means yo don't attract people into these professions in the first place, and lots of people leave once they get there, and find out the money isn't worth the hassle. The other problem with low pay is that it attracts piss-poor 'managers' who couldn't hold down a real job anywhere else, and they get promoted beyond their competence. So their efforts at managing are more or less useless. The NHS will NEVER get any better until they pay good people more>>>>>
Ranter
- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 06:28:58 (GMT)

We might protest too much, but what the hell. Proud to be a Maggie

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 02:34:24 (GMT)

I hate Severus Snape I do. And the whole Malfoy family.

- Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 00:08:52 (GMT)

Managers
Yeah but thats a sign of a successful manager if they don't spend money apparantly.
Hobbes, (sleepy)
- Monday, January 28, 2002 at 23:03:04 (GMT)

Why are NHS managers so ignorant and arrogant? We had a discussion group with one whose only interest was meeting government targets and not spending money. Actually caring for patients counts for nothing. And to make it worse this manager was previously a nurse!!!

- Monday, January 28, 2002 at 16:04:03 (GMT)

Maggie
Yep
Hobbes
- Monday, January 28, 2002 at 08:50:32 (GMT)

Stereotypes
Oh dear I did touch a nerve with Maggie didn't I? It's only tongue in cheek you know. Methinks you do protest too much!

- Monday, January 28, 2002 at 08:09:54 (GMT)

'ERE 'ERE!!!!!!
Anita
- Monday, January 28, 2002 at 07:26:56 (GMT)

i would say that the mature students are far more studious than the younger students and get better grades. Many of the mature students also manage to get themselves to college for 9am start despite having children to sort out, houses to run and a 30 mile journey. While the younger students who live on site roll in after 9.15!!!

- Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 23:41:21 (GMT)

Maggie
Well the 'Maggie' on our course got A's for every assignment - completely outshining us with A levels who were lucky to get 50% if we passed at all! But then I think that was down to the her level of motivation after having waited 20 years to do what she'd always wanted to do!

- Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 23:34:39 (GMT)

Thanks Hobbes
As a mature student, I had to qualify with the rest of my intake, and OH MY GOSH, I'm 18th in a class of 84. Not everyone over 40 is an idiot and not every one under 22 is meant to be a nurse. Leslie

- Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 23:27:08 (GMT)

Childcare
Louise, it is a really bad situation concerning the childcare. I was left with £24 a week after paying travel and childcare, now I'm expecting a second child I've recently had to leave my course (after passing my first year) as there's no way I could afford the childcare for two children on a bursary. It is absolutely crazy as I'll now be paid £130 a week to stay at home, out of which I'll have absolutely no travel,childcare, books or even rent to pay. Staying at home wouldn't be my only option though, if i got a job working 16 hours a week earning £95, I could get upto a £250 per week (WFTC and childcare)award on top of my wages - giving me an income of £372 a week (incl child benefit) for just working 16 hours! However I desperately want to go back to nursing and instead will be completely restarting my training on a four year nursing diploma at a more local university - with a total income (incl child benefit) of just £148 a week, out of which I'll have full time childcare for a baby and before and after school care for a 4 year old to pay for, aswell as travel, books etc - if I'm lucky I'll be left with £25 a week to live off. I know its my choice to go back into nursing but it does seem rather illogical that the system would make me 500% a week better off if instead I chose to not work at all and rely completely on benefits. Good luck Louise - You'll need it!

- Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 23:25:16 (GMT)

Maggie
maybe Maggie needs to kick some of the arses of the younger students for being patronising? Still she's only a sterotype.
Hobbes
- Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 19:59:07 (GMT)

Stereotypes
Here's another stereotype, does it sound true? Maggie the Mature Student has been an auxiliary for years, and a very good one. Her two kids are now old enough to look after themselves at home. Everyone told her she should train to be a qualified nurse and she wants to "better" herself and be a middle class professional. She hasn't got much in the way of academic qualifications but the uni bent over backwards to let her in. After all "widening access" is all the rage. The trouble is Maggie just cannot keep up with the academic work. Everyone does their best to help and all the younger students think she's a great mother figure but she keeps on failing assignments. Maggie is a great hands on carer, but was it a mistake to start on RN training in the first place?

- Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 17:05:51 (GMT)

Changing branches
If you want to change it should be possible but is dependent on the available places in the child branch. I would suggest you get onto it asap as the longer you leave it the harder it becomes. Basically you need to approach your group/year tutor and ask to swap. From witnessing the experience of friends who swapped or tried to swap, the college seemingly dos'nt have any responsibilty in moveing you from one branch to another. I suspect that its dependent on how nice and understanding your college is.
Hobbes
- Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 01:24:14 (GMT)

changing branches
Does anybody know if its possible to change branches from adult to child nursing at the end of 1st year common foundation, as I have discovered that adult nursing isn't my thing, yet i don't want to quit my course. If it is possible to switch over,can you tell me how i go about doing it.thankyou
rebecca
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 22:42:22 (GMT)

thankyou
thanks for the advice anita.Yes i agree that the problem should be addressed regarding childcare allowances.....
louise
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 22:36:02 (GMT)

Louise
Sorry to tell you this but the only way you will get any childcare help is if you work 16 hours a week and claim Working Families Tax Credit and the childcare tax credits too. This is what I have to do and then you have to have a 'registered' child carer or nursery to qualify for the money, you will get 70% of the childcare costs paid if you do this - Yes I know it is an impossible situation and I really think that it needs addressing.
Anita
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 17:15:06 (GMT)

Alder Hey experience!!
I had to spend 3 days in Alder Hey hospital this week with my daughter who was just having an ambulatory EEG test done. What I found really bizarre was that my daughter was not ill but they insisted on doing her 'obs' regularly, Why? I asked this and a mumbled reply of 'oh this is what we do' was offered. How odd I thought, anyway the first night it was decided that my daughter had a temp of 37 and so was prescribed paracetamol and suddenly became a 'proper' patient!!!
Anita
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 17:12:10 (GMT)

Child care help
I'm a student nurse in my 1st year and I'm having trouble getting benefits for childcare costs.My mum looks after her but she needs extra money as I have to travel a fair distance, which means my daughter needs to be cared for up to 32 hours per week. Can anyone give me any advice on who to contact for childcare cost. thanks
louise
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 15:45:14 (GMT)

RE: APPALING CIRCUMSTANCES
The other day i started my new placement i will be 3rd year in 2 months. i was bossed about "do the obs" and not even allowed to put up a nebuliser or stand at the drug trolley. During the week i phoned in sick twice as i felt quite ill. sister told the co-ordinator and now a report is being put into my uni. they are all ganging up on me and i cannot complain because i need my book marked and graded. that is real nursing why doesn't Mr Blair realise that there is bullying in the workforce and that is where the real retention of nurses is lost!
sharons.macdonald@ <s.macdonald@talk21.com>
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 14:47:45 (GMT)

Diploma vs Degree
I posted a thread a couple of days ago stating that Degree nurses are preferred over Diploma nurses when it came to a F grade job. Originally I chose the Diploma as it was 3 years, better money and more placement experience. The Degree at that time was 4 years and there was no way I was going to stay in college for 4 years. The courses have changed, the degree is now 3 years and they've beefed up the placements. I spoken to a couple of management types who have stated that if you want to head towards managment in the future you will pretty much have to have a degree. You guys maybe thinking what the hell has this got to do with me? But its a sign of the times, with the UKCC's rabid need for professionalism and need to be taken seriously. If your doing the diploma, I would seriously think about getting your degree at some point soon. I think diploma nurses will be the next enrolled and you may be forced into doing it anyway if you want to get promoted.
Hobbes
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 12:02:56 (GMT)

cath
Most of the trained staff I work with myself included are prepared to stay on and finish work. On Wednesday with ward round I should have finshed the shift at 14:30 and finally mangaged to get off the ward at 16:30. Up until a couple of months ago I had four days time owing, most people N/A's aswell had at least a day or two. Management have changed the way do things now so as soon as you've amassed a day you get an extra day off on the next rota. We stopped taking overtime as the ward budget was well overspent. I guess though sometimes you just need to get off the ward, sometimes its to pick your kids up or other plans you have to go. Sometimes you've just had enough and want to go home.
Hobbes
- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 11:43:23 (GMT)

A few weeks ago a Staff Nurse told me I couldn't think of myself as a proper nurse until a patient had vomited over me. I thought this was the usual ramblings of a demented old hag but yesterday it happened and I actually understand what she meant. I was sitting talking to a patient when she suddenly threw up, all over both herself and me. I had vomit all down the front of my uniform dress, it was disgusting. But what to do? There was no-one close at hand to help, should I clear up the patient first or myself? She was acutely embarrased and upset so there was that aspect to think of. Well, I muddled through, cleaned us both up, told her not to worry it was all part of the job for me and then went off to change. Luckily I had a spare uniform in the locker room because it isn't very nice stinking of pewk! The thing is I now understand what that Staff Nurse meant, it was a horrible experience but I coped OK, put the patient first and then got on with things. I don't know really how to explain but it made me feel really "nursey" and quite proud. Am I cracking up? I'm glad this is anonymous!!

- Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 08:56:41 (GMT)

as in the procedure OGD for gastric probs?

- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 21:10:27 (GMT)

what does the abbreviation OGD stand for?

- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 21:09:56 (GMT)

It's disgraceful to hear Tony Blair "praising" NHS staff after he's spent the last 4 years undermining our professionalism. Equally the Tories have a cheek, much of the problems are their fault in the first place! Keep politicians out of the NHS, all they are concerned about is the next election result, they disgust me almost as much as lawyers. Just leave us alone to get on with the work and trust in our professionalism instead of interfering all the time.

- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 20:26:49 (GMT)

Semi-private room transfering patient back to bed. Room mate "Nurse cover me Up". Get patient A in bed, cover up B. "Nurse cover me up". Blanket over A. B "Nurse I need some Kleenex" Resist urge to throttle B. A "Nurse roll up my bed" Where are all those electric beds we've been promised??? Roll up bed head, catch fingers in handle, OH howls nurse. A "Don't make so much noise we're resting". Nurse needs two stitches to finger. God, I love patients/clients...

- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 20:06:13 (GMT)

AAARRRGGHHHH
What p****s me off is the patients who come into hospital to have a procedure carried out, and then, once they put on their pyjamas (do they really need to, but that's another question!)they give up their independance completely and try, and try to get you to do everything (and I mean everything) for them. I have looked after one gentleman who's had a TURP, is only 60 yrs old and has basically taken to his bed and done bugger all for himself for the last week. Today, he rang the call bell 3 times, about 6 staff nurses and students legged it, thinking ohmigod, cardiac arrest, only for him to ask one of us if we could pick up a bottle he had dropped!!!! God, please give me strength. Anyway, on a lighter note, got my results today and have passed CFP! Adult branch approaches. Please tell me it gets better or I'll cry!!!
H
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 19:01:59 (GMT)

God save the NHS!
Thank you Mr Blair for the praise you gave to nurses and doctors regarding the current 'scandal' in the nhs. William Hague, sorry Ian Duncan Smith has jumped on the band wagon that the media ride on - the slightest problem in the nhs and the media bring it to light adding as much extra baggage as possible. Take the case with the old woman in London i wont mention any names but you know who i mean, her daughter was on the tv on Wednesday night, having a real go at the hospital concerned, she said and i quote 'her top hadnt been changed for three days' My god! why on earth cant the daughter do it, now i know the nhs is not perfect but if relatives took more of an interest and helped the medical staff help the patient, then we are all swimming in the same direction as it were. In my experiance some relatives, not all but some enjoy there mother/father/son/daughter etc coming into hospital, they expect the nhs to take over everything and some enjoy the esteem of being able to say 'my aunt Edith is in that new unit at the general!' So please Mr Duncan Smith, just because your party has changed its tact from Europe to public services, stop picking up the slightest problem that the Daily Mail inform you about and concentrate on the important issues in the nhs like the organ doner scandal at Bristol or dodgy gynecologists.
Nat Mills
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 18:23:19 (GMT)

Always glad to help!
Laura
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 18:12:03 (GMT)

Laura, that's brilliant! Thanks .

- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 18:06:39 (GMT)

ERCP & more!
Hi Sue, it's an endoscopic test/procedure with x-ray contrast to show the draiage of the gall bladder.etc i found a useful site for terms & explanations of tests etc at www.intelihealth.com check it out! Laura.
Laura
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 17:02:35 (GMT)

Does anyone know what an "ERCP" is? I was looking after a man with gallstones who is due to have one.
Sue
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 16:31:35 (GMT)

Fred
Hi mate, just replying to your posting. Staffordshire Uni is OK on the whole but there is always room for improvement don't you think? My main concern is the increased numbers of students in the intakes. I am part of Staffs Uni at a satelite site in Shrewsbury Shropshire (Shropshire doesn't have its own Uni), It's a small site and the intake numbers have increased but not the lecture room facilites or the numbers of lecturers also we have limited placement opportunities as we only have two general hospiatals and an orthopaedics specialist hospital. I'm just concerned about the effect this will have on current and potential students What do you think? Manda
Amanda Dixon
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 11:25:38 (GMT)

RGN
To the person from London enquiring about RGN Dip HE Courses, sorry mate I think we've got cross wires. I thought you were asking for more info about diploma courses, unfortunately the RGN Dip HE is Adult Nursing, but on my current training programme, which changed for all new intakes Sept 01, we had a module where we had 3 4wk placements in other specialities, Mental Health, Childrens (inc 2wks in a Nursery which would of been fine if I wasn't already an NNEB Nursery Nurse!)and Midwifery. I enjoyed this because it gave me a small insight into other specialities. Sorry about the confusion, Good Luck Manda
Amanda Dixon
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 11:10:16 (GMT)

What happened to ward manager?!
Where the hell did that lonely old spinster 'Ward Manager' go? did his/her patients suddenly turn on him/her and beat him up? One can only wish!!!

- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 11:05:35 (GMT)

TEA TROLLEY
One day when i was on placement the stupid stuck up ward sister told me to clean the toilets and after that do the tea trolley THEN mop the floor. Your not the only one believe me!. Tell your Uni about the situation and tell them that give the orders to piss off!

- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 10:45:46 (GMT)

Child Nursing
HI everyone, I've just got my offer letter from nmas and i've accepted to do child nursing at kings college,london. Could anyone tell me what their opinion of kings is or their opinion of the child nursing branch.I'd really appreciate someone to give me the lowdown. :-)
Siobhan <girlfrommars83@aol.com>
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 08:58:39 (GMT)

Emma
I have never heard of anything like that before! That's terrible! Did you try to speak your mind? I know I would never have done that... though I can understand completely the position you were put in. I think a bit of a complaint (or a massive one) to the college in question is in order!
Claire
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 01:14:18 (GMT)

Friggin' Tea Lady!!!!
I am really pissed off! I qualify in a few months time and desperately need to learn tons of stuff but today I was sent on to another ward to do the tea round!!!! Excuse me for voicing my opinion but I think that is bloody DISGUSTING!!!!! WHEN WILL QUALIFIED NURSES START TRAINING STUDENTS TO BE NURSES?????? I am ready for telling the NHS to F Off!!!
Emma <funkygal@femail.co.uk>
- Friday, January 25, 2002 at 00:11:51 (GMT)

I agree Cath. So many nurses either seem not to give a damn or are so obsessed with trying to improve their "professional" status that patients get forgotten. I'm no Florence Nightingale but I did think an important part of what we do was to actually care!

- Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 18:17:53 (GMT)

I may be a young & idealistic student but why is it so many qualified staff just don't give a stuff about patients? They only seem concerned with leaving work exactly on time and getting home. Is this all down to burn out and low morale? Personally I don't think a lot of them should ever have been nurses in the first place if they can't put patients first. Then again it might be me in 5 years time I suppose. Cath

- Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 16:18:28 (GMT)

Frog in a big bad world
So your qualified? Right firstly if you've been working as a student on the ward, this will be a huge advantage, you'll know everyone, the crappy paperwork and what's likely to happen during the day. The disadvantage is that you'll lose that supernumery status they usually give to new staff who join the ward and you'll be working from day one. No sitting in the office for a week reading notes for you my lad! I was thrown into the fire on my first day. On the whole at the moment you will be full of fear as you suddenly realise that your training has been largely useless, you now wish that you had'nt had so many days of sick due to apathy or a hangover. Your confidence is in your boots as that distant vision of being a staff nurse is now slapping you in the face. Right stop shaking, stop thinking your thick, stop thinking you can't do the job. You've done a placement where you've now been given a job right? Thats like one massive interview. If they did'nt think your up to it then they would've given it to someone else. What to expect? Pretty much carry on as you did before. N/A's will now turn and look at you with glee in their eyes as the suddenly realise that after spending three years pissing about you now have to make decisions!!!!! I don't know what place your working but ,most early decisions will be, "Can Fred go out for a walk?" Now Fred is detained under Sec 3 because he runs off and tries to throw himself off bridges. So firstly alway check his Sec 17 to see if he has leave, think what is beahviour has been like recently, suicidal ideation? Think of the ward, Freds interactions with others has somebody been having a go at him, as he just just gotten a phone call saying his mother has died? Ask the N/A's whats he been like this morning, has he been going out? AskN/A's because they'll be the ones who have been on the ward whilst your stuck in the office ordering medication from pharmacy or talking to CPN'S or socialworkers all morning. Obviously if your N/A's are crap you'll have to make your own mind up, they should'nt be though. If your stuck talk to Fred yourself, if your not happy sending him out on his own then send him with an escort. Be honest with him. Other decsions will be about observations, again its all about risk assessment. Remember you have a huge advantage over somebody who has never worked on the ward, you know your staff and you know your clients. Right telling people what to do. Its easy, if you work on a busy ward you won't even think twice about it. Just say please and thank you. You'll no doubt be on with somebody more experienced, (believe me though I'd only be qualified a matter of weeks and was put in charge),but on the whole you should have somebody who is senior to you working with you. If your asked to make a decision about something that you feel should be delt with at a higher level, say so, don't be pressurised or fobed off with something you should'nt be dealing with. Don't be afraid to phone the nurse manager or G-grade if you're faced with a tricky decision thats what they are paid for. You won't be expected to know anything for your first six months. Everyone on your ward is well aware that your traing was shoddy and half-arsed, they will be gentle with you. If they staff were monsters you would'nt have wanted to work there. So you obviously feel supported. Take your time decision-making, take your time doing meds. Make sure your familiar with the medication you give out, what it looks like and what its suppossed to do. Your going to make mistakes-christ the stuff I've done and sometimes continue to do makes me cringe. Its all down to experience which you will be gathering everyday. You will be fine. Your new everyone knows that so don't worry. Hey Paranoia is a useful thing to have at times, always be aware of ward politics. Don't take sides, don't gossip, (too much), be supportive of others. Care for the staff, treat them like a family and you'll be alright. (of course this changes when you move up to management but thats a different story...) If your worried about anything, post a message or e-mail me above. Good Luck!
Hobbes <JUJUHOBBES@Hotmail.com>
- Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 13:21:57 (GMT)

Someone must know one.............
From the other perspective, in theory, male nurses 'should' encompass all the qualities that 'most' women look for in a man; kind, careing, understanding of feelings and emotions (i.e. dont run a mile the minute someone sheds a tear),hard working and, again I stress the in theory bit,they should realise the importance of infection control (i.e.lifting the loo seat beforehand and washing their hands afterwards)............. Yep I'm still looking too
Sylv
- Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 09:24:11 (GMT)

I do hope this sensible discussion forum isn't going to degenerate into a debate about the relative merits of sex with medical students versus male student nurses. On the other hand, if anyone wants to hear the benefit of my extensive practical research on the matter or to know why it's true that a nurse's uniform is a fantastic "man magnet"............

- Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 08:38:53 (GMT)

City Uni
see below

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 22:55:48 (GMT)

I'd like to apply to City uni starting next year to do the adult Dip, however I've got two small children and would appreciate any info a current student has on usual lecture and placement hours. I understand most uni's say you'll be in lectures 9-5 monday to friday but having just recently left a nursing course at a different university (due to pregnancy) I know that in reality lectures rarely finish as late as 5 and most uni weeks we had at least an afternoon if not a whole day off. Also any info as to how much choice they give you as regard to hospital site for placements and how much flexibility there is in choosing shifts, usual shift starting times etc would be usefull Thanks

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 22:55:20 (GMT)

Nursing Courses RGN
Amanda,I live in London so I've got no problem getting access to an adult branch diploma course - its just you mentioned you were on an RGN Dip He course, to do general nursing instead of just adult/child/mental branch sounds great but until your posting I wasn't aware that anywhere still offered RGN Dip HE's. How do I find out about staffordshire's RGN course? - I can't find any info in their prospectus or the NMAS book

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 22:42:20 (GMT)

'Distant Dream'
Hobbes - where is the best place to work in NZ? What is the Health Service like over there? Opportunities? whats the pay v cost of living like? sylv91uk@yahoo.co.uk
Sylv
- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:47:26 (GMT)

well done FROG !
can't imagine how it must feel being 'a proper qualified' but can suggest some pearls of wisdom - don't forget your still impoverished student colleagues when you get your first pay-slip and buy us all a bevy! (oh and get yourself one while you're at the bar!!) Well done - hope the new job goes well.
Flo of Nightingale
- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:27:53 (GMT)

tarts

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:23:20 (GMT)

If all the male student nurses are 'spoty faced nurds' than why on earth cant all the female student nurses wait to get there nickers off and shag them then? OW sorry for my non-PC view there, just wait for all the response.

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:22:34 (GMT)

sorry Alison I can spell really Im just drowning in assignments HELP glug glug

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:11:51 (GMT)

Alsion
We (diploma lot) didnt hear about interviews until end of Feb/March last year but the Degree lot heard slightly earlier. Its definately worth ringing though because Donna (earlier post) hadnt heard, rang, and was asked if she wanted to go for interview over the phone! Only trouble was she only had about a week to come up with an essay and prepare for the interview but hey it got her in!!
Sylv
- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:10:18 (GMT)

Hi hun, we were timetabled to do EBL all day, our tutor turned up late stayed for 10 mins and announced that he had another cohort to teach so he was off!. He also told us that he hadnt marked the 40 or so assignments he had been allocated (that we had to have in on the second week of December) and until that was done no-one will know whether or not they have passed or refered - we love it really - dont we???
Sylv
- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:00:19 (GMT)

UCN
Hi peeps, with requard to Sylv`s message. UCN do degree and diploma Nursing but beware! The timetables are ever changing, the tutors keep dissapearing and the on campus halls are something indescribable. If you love chaos, nursing and loads of group work......Go to UCN. Im there and im still doing it... Love to sylvxxxxx Donna. BcsAdult
Donna <DonnaFone@aol.co.uk>
- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 18:04:56 (GMT)

Waiting for an interview
Can anyone let me know how long to expect to wait for the interview to gain a place in nursing school? I sent my application in November, was sent acknowledgement form at the beginning of December, but I haven't heard anything since. I have tried to contact the school by telephone but there is never anyone in the office. I'm beginning to get paranoid. I think they're avoiding me. Any info greatly appreciated.
Alison
- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 17:26:26 (GMT)

congratulations frog!!!!!!!!!!!!

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 13:09:20 (GMT)

Stereotypes
Hang on now! Half my set are going out with med students and we're all totally normal I reckon. At least they're not spotty faced nerds like most of the male Student Nurses seem to be. Wait now for the outraged postings about this non-PC opinion!

- Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 12:12:29 (GMT)

into the frying pan
whee i have just qualified - i finished my dip he nursing studies (mental health) yesterday and start work on sunday. has anyone got any nuggets of advice, because i feel quite scared at the prospect of actually being a real nurse (as opposed to that of student "supernumery" status). i have spent the last 3 months of my placement on the ward where i am going to be working..but somehow this three years of training has left me with a feeling of inadequacy, am i being paranoid ;-]
frog
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 23:52:33 (GMT)

Thanks All!!!
Its a good six months since I passed this way on my cyber travels, and to be honest I'm glad I did. I am 18mth into my training and upon my return this semester found my self in a particularly foul mood, over worked, underpaid and wondering why!!!! However a good half hour perusing the gossip and witty (if not bitchy) sense of humour had me laughing like a good'un, thanks guys- and ps Paul from 9th Jan - How do we survive on an nhs bursary???? With a diet of baked beans, fermented water and busking with farts in our little spare time of course. LM
LM
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 21:54:28 (GMT)

I actually do know someone like that who is even called Emma. She's at Sheffield Uni, it's not the same person is it?

- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 21:06:29 (GMT)

Here's another Student Nurse Stereotype. "Emma the Doctor Totty". The only reason Emma came into nursing is to marry a Doctor. She chose a uni that also has a medical school with lots of lovely med students. Emma comes from Surrey, has a pony at home and her rich father is really proud that she wants to be a nurse rather than earn money. Emma is quite clever academically, at least good enough to make sure she can ask intelligent questions when the registrar is around, after all he might offer to give her some private lessons. She can often be found chatting to her friends in the medical school bar. Emma was quite disappointed to find that 50% of medical students are female. Emma always looks the part of a dutiful nurse, blond hair in a ponytail, uniform clean and worn just that tiny bit shorter than it should be, she always wears a belt with her dress because that emphasises her trim waist and she knows the effect a girl in nurses uniform can have on a full blooded rugby player.... Emma will marry her Doctor one day, have 3 children and probably work part-time at BUPA. In the meantime she is an excellent nurse when it comes to nice clean middle class patients but anyone else....... Do you know anyone like this?

- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 20:23:05 (GMT)

University Colege Northampton still do diploma courses with the option to upgrade, at the end of the first year, to degree (if they think your good enough!) whether or not you get to keep your bursary is questionable and as this is the main reason most people choose diploma over degree the answers probably no
Sylv
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 18:44:46 (GMT)

hey flo, i had to do 5 weeks in a nursery to observe the 'well child' followed by 1 day on a children's ward!! Great experience mopping floors, learning how to change nappies (as if us mothers can't do that already) and observing 18-year olds bossing the toddlers about!! Oh and standing in a freezing cold playground observing the children!!!Thank god it is only a few weeks.

- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 18:44:28 (GMT)

wots stafford uni like amanda??
fred
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 18:35:37 (GMT)

Oh and by the way....
I'm thrilled and besides my self with excitement at the prospect at spending a whole week (next wk) at a private child daycare nursery where I can learn how to suck eggs and be assessed by an 18 year old (I have a kid who is now 12). Whilst being splashed with paint and baked beans I can get on with my workbook which asks questions about the sick child in hospital....which isn't quite what I'll be doing is it???
Flo of Nightingale
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 17:52:06 (GMT)

The Public Opinion of Nurses
HELP!! I'm currently doing a 6 million word work of fiction, and need to know about the above topic - and how we as nurses are able to influence the public to live healthy lifestyles when we aren't a good example ourselves - does nayone know of any good sources of credible surveys? I was told the RCN but haven't found it very helpful....
Flo of Nightingale
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 17:48:52 (GMT)

Diploma Courses
To the person enquiring which university still offer diploma courses. I attend Staffordshire University, and they now only offer diploma's in Adult or Mental Health Nursing, Child Branch and Midwifery are now all degree programmes. I don't know about other Universities but I've heard some no longer offer any Nursing diploma courses. You probably need to contact your careers office to find out more. Hope that helps a little bit mate Manda
Amanda Dixon
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 17:34:57 (GMT)

research
doing a literature review on problems or issues that arise in adult branch.considering doing treatment of mental health patients in hospital on a general ward. could do with some help from anyone out there with any sites to visit, literature to read or anything at all.it would be gratefully received!! thanks michelle.
michelle
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 14:22:47 (GMT)

Thanks
Thanks to all who sent help with my nursing process question. Essay is now in for better or worse....... Still on a high note got a A2 on my hated/dreaded child placement. Yippee me!!!!!!!!
Jean <Hoganj2000@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 12:09:14 (GMT)

can anyone tell me where i can find some information on manual handling with diagrams. also i am doing my nvq2 and i was wondering if anyone has previously done it so i can chat and c if i am on the right lines.
natalie
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 10:09:05 (GMT)

Working in NZ
Basically, my wife is a kiwi, but I contacted a couple of hospitals and they put me in toch with a recruitment agency who do regular interviews. They have a shortage of nurses and doctors over there due to many of their young folk go overseas on Kontiki trips for several years and many don't go back. If anyone is interested post an e-mail address and I'll get back to you.
Hobbes
- Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 00:44:38 (GMT)

Please Help
Yes I am another nursing student from Georgia and I also need another e-mail buddy to help me with my class. If anyone can help please respond at sear20@yahoo.com thank you
Elise <sear20@yahoo.com>
- Monday, January 21, 2002 at 18:30:07 (GMT)

sylv
i chose york in the the end,for better or for worse.cheers for your advice on northampton.

- Monday, January 21, 2002 at 17:14:01 (GMT)

Casual/Float Hours
I got hired as casual/relief in a sub-acute/continuing care hospital. I work on average 30.5 hours a week. This doesn't include the shifts I manage to dodge by not answering the phone. Last week I got called 9 times in a 26 hour period asking if I could come in "we're a little short". I might add that these are just the day hour shifts, won't even mention the number of overnight shifts I turn down. Husband's in the air force and away right now and I won't leave the kids overnight. My friends in the acute care hospitals are just as badgered. Oh, sorry, this is from Canada. We are just wondering why we are working casual hours without pensions and benefits when the hospitals here are posting fulltime, pensionable jobs to nurses across Canada, the US and Australia and probably the UK too. Don't mean to sound bitter, but try living as a casual, can't budget and you are on call and don't get paid for being on call which full time nurses do. Good Luck Hobbes. Been fun reading your views.

- Monday, January 21, 2002 at 16:56:31 (GMT)

NURSES 37.5 HOURS !
Pull the other one. Three years since I qualified, I reckon i'm doing 52 hours a week hospital and agency week in week out. I'm still boracic. Sick of it. Usually 2 agency shifts a week. There are 2 recovery nurses here, SIXTY YEARS OLD, old contracts, on call all night after 10 hour days. Sick of it.
Scottie
- Monday, January 21, 2002 at 06:36:51 (GMT)

Still around
Hi still around been busy and ill, (ear infection lasting two weeks), whats been happening? Sally avoid Lancaster for your training, although its a good place to live. Just a word about diploma nurses, (being one myself), Recent job offer for an F grade came up, (I'm not going for it as I'm leaving and need more experience yet), but it stated that DEGREE NURSES are prefered. Hmmm hope we're not heading down the old enrolled nurse route again. I'll say one thing when I did my training not long ago the diploma was far better than the degree, loads more placements. I think if your looking into training and hav'nt made up your mind to do dip or degree I'd ask some serious questions of tutors about the future of diploma nurses. This makes me pretty mad as being a team leader has nothing to do with the course you've done. Jeez I've implemented more new ideas then any of the recent degree nurses on the ward. Still I'm leaving the country so its not my problem. Claire as most people who have read my posts will know I believe that Mental Health is the best. Anyhow being off sick has screwed my sleep pattern big time I should try and get some sleep-Night!
Hobbes
- Monday, January 21, 2002 at 04:25:57 (GMT)

Advice please
Where is the best place in the UK to train? I want to do the Adult RN course but I want a course where they teach you real clinical nursing, not just academic stuff. Also anywhere to avoid?
Sally
- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 19:57:50 (GMT)

Mental Health Branch
To Clare who wasn't sure if she had chosen the correct branch!I'm about to qualify in March, after doing mental health. All I can say is it's been a great experience,and i've learned so much. It's bloody challenging at times, but well worth the hard slog. Email me anytime for a chat.
<gorm74@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 19:39:01 (GMT)

Answer to the GP question
My Dad is a GP, so I asked him. The average number of patients per GP is 2000. The average hours worked per week is 65, but he reckons he works more like 80. This compares with hospital consultants doing 55 hours and nurses 37.5!!!
Sarah
- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 19:08:44 (GMT)

Claire - Time Off
I would also like to take a month off when I have finished my course Claire, but you should have seen the look my husband gave me when I told him - if looks could kill!!!! So not sure what I will do - fingers crossed that he is sent away on exercise somewhere when the course ends .... like Canada or anywhere far away hehehehe. I think once we finish the course we surely must deserve a well earned break! We work hard enough over the three years don't we! :-)
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 16:55:22 (GMT)

Which uni did you decide on in the end Gordon?
Sylv
- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 16:53:24 (GMT)

me too!
<gordon03uk@yahoo.co.uk>
- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 16:32:44 (GMT)

starting new style diploma in nursing in 2 weeks
I am starting the new style nursing diploma and would like any advice on assignments how many per semester etc. have had no info from uni have to wait till I start in Feb. Any advice on good books that are needed. thanks Clairelou
clairelou <clbennett@onetel.net.uk>
- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 13:59:22 (GMT)

apparently they might be changing the designations again to RN1 & RN2, (depending on what part of the register you are on)

- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 12:50:34 (GMT)

Help! I have to answer a question on other Health Professionals. Does anyone know, 1.How many patients the average GP in the UK looks after? 2.How many hours per week the same GP works/is on duty? Thanks

- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 09:40:07 (GMT)

Whatever happened to SEN and SRN designations???

- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 02:47:34 (GMT)

RGN Dip He courses
Amanda, I'd love to do nursing but don't particularly want to just do adult branch -Where exactly can one still do an RGN Dip He course??

- Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 01:36:36 (GMT)

Any Mental Health Students out there
Im due to start Mental Health training in March and am keen to chat to somebody already on the course. Ive had some worries that i may have chosen the wrong branch. Can any one give me some advice.
Clare Hughes <clarabella93@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 23:32:16 (GMT)

i plan to take a month. I qualify in 3 weeks and start my first post a month later. I think that you need a few weeks off after such a long struggle on the course. Some of the students are only taking a week, but i think that they are mad

- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 22:31:40 (GMT)

Prep for qualification?!?
Amanda, your uni are obviously better organised than mine... we don't get the prep for interview and careers forum until the middle of June, though when I talked to my personal tutor, I was told to start thinking about applications at the beginning of May (go figure!), I think things like that might be more useful at the beginning of third year so it gives us some time to work through the possibilities, what do you all think? PS How long is everyone thinking of taking off inbetween qual. and first post? With no bursary I don't think I could survive for very long, but the current newly qualifieds tell me that I should take a month at least.
Claire
- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 21:57:07 (GMT)

Oh and before I leave, you are so right. Appeared on his unit placements in golf shirts and Dockers, never ever saw him in scrubs. Must have had one hell of a student loan as his ward wear was easily worth $150 compared to $45 for scrubs!

- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 20:15:20 (GMT)

The Stereotypes are Fantastic
I had a guy just like him at our group interview!!! Very "earnest" young Phillipino man. Had a diploma in Administration and wanted to get into Hospital Admin. Thought that getting an RN would do wonders for his career. Wasn't interested in patient care at all and got accepted! Which I find scary as some girls who wanted to nurse were turned down. Sorry about the Americans. But at least those of us in Canada know what your on about....

- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 20:13:18 (GMT)

Another Student Nurse "type"
How about "Martin the Manager". Age 23, he (and it is always a he) did a degree in managerial science at some unheard of ex-polytechnic university. Thinks a nursing qualification will give him clinical credibility in his race to be hospital chief exec. Doesn't really like patients and does all he can to avoid giving hands on care. Very boring socially. Prefers a suit to a nurse's uniform.

- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 14:44:33 (GMT)

am i right in saying that once you have done your CFP at one uni(university for any spams) you can actually change to another uni to do your branch training?
fred
- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 13:41:48 (GMT)

Georgia Nursing Students
I am responding to the person who thinks the uni's put this board on a list. First of all I do not know what a uni is and second I searched and found this web page on my own. I gave the address to a couple of other nursing students in my class because we have to correspond with other nursing students. I personally have received email from nursing students in the UK and have found them very interesting and helpful. I have also responded (helped I hope) a nursing student on the page requsting info about the nursing process. I just wanted to let you know I didn't get this address from any uni's (what-ever that is?). Oh....I think deliverance was flimed in Georgia a long time ago and yes we have lots of Universities here.

- Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 00:59:57 (GMT)

Amanda
Good luck with your final year Amanda - hope it all goes well for you. I also qualify in September (can't wait) and am currently being prepped for qualification (how to go on in an interview and all that sort of thing). Will be glad to earn some decent money at last hehehehe!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 22:10:56 (GMT)

have just handed in my practice document...and yes would like to poke it up the ukcc's arses

- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 21:28:35 (GMT)

Just found out this site existed!
Just like to say hello to everybody who uses this forum, I've just found out it's existed! My name is Manda and I am in my third year of the RGN Dip HE, I qualify in September. I would just like to ask if anybody else feels like sticking their portfolio up the UKCC's arse!
Amanda Dixon <amanda@dixon.icom43.net>
- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 21:25:58 (GMT)

Good luck to all those students qualifing this year!
I am a RGN Dip HE student due to qualify in September this year and would just like to say good luck to all those students qualifying this year Manda
Amanda Dixon <amanda@dixon.icom43.net>
- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 21:11:07 (GMT)

like i'm doing now

- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 20:53:59 (GMT)

student nurse types 2
BITCHY NO LIFE NURSES; nurses with nothing better to do than bitch on web chat sites.

- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 20:53:28 (GMT)

The "born nurse" on my course dropped out when she hit her surgical rotation. Her first patient had the nerve to be mentally handicapped with terminal kidney failure. I think our instructor had her sussed from the start and gave her a real challenge. Her "born" desire to nurse evaporated after 3 days of care..

- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 18:08:05 (GMT)

Student Nurse "Types"
How about some thoughts on Student Nurse stereotypes? Here's one to start: THE BORN NURSE: Has known she wants to be a nurse since the age of 5. Mummy is a nurse, Daddy a GP.Was a prefect at school and a leading member of St John Ambulance. Got OK but not brilliant A levels. Believes nursing is a vocation first and a profession second. Reads the Daily Mail. Thinks a good night out is a Christian union meeting. Always gets her essays in on time. Her uniform is always spotless, perfectly ironed and the hem of her dress is exactly one inch below the knee. Aspires to be a Ward Sister one day. Puts her patients first, genuinely caring for them. Lacks imagination but otherwise is a good nurse.
Sue
- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 15:24:14 (GMT)

Georgia, isn't that near where they set "Deliverance"?? Do they really have universities there???

- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 04:50:31 (GMT)

bloody US uni's
Hmm, ok it doesn't seem like a problem on here yet, only two emails, its a miracle! But every year around this time one of the uni's in Georgia (such as the post before mine)gives there students a list of student nursing newsgroups to join and pester for their essays! It would be fine, but its not usually just two, its about 200 students sending bulk requests :( Someone needs to wrap that uni's knuckles, we tried it before but they didn't listen. Ach, moan over... I just have horrible memories of opening my email one day in years past and having 100 emails from a nursing board in one day cause of this! Ach, I think these long days have fried my brain.
claire
- Friday, January 18, 2002 at 00:11:19 (GMT)

email buddies
If anyone is interested in being email buddies pls write to me. I am a nursing student in Georgia, USA in my last semester of school. For one of my classes I have to email back and forth with a nursing student in a diff state or country. I would only need maybe 1 email per week or so and we would just talk about whatever we had done in class that week. If anyone is interested please write back. Thanks-- Katie
katie <hades007@gate.net>
- Thursday, January 17, 2002 at 16:32:40 (GMT)

Try CyberNurse UK
Search that site I've always found it useful. leave a message on the messge board or summat. I'm sure I read something on delegation but forgot where on there I saw it. Rob...
Rob
- Thursday, January 17, 2002 at 03:04:09 (GMT)

i am not being funny but belts are classed as a health and safety risk they can get caught when moving patients also their is evidence tosuggest that they are no good for your back and they also restrict movement

- Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 17:23:53 (GMT)

Delegation
I am a senior level nursing student. I will finish this May. I am trying to do a report on delegation and I have to site a web page for the paper's Bib. I asm have a hard time finding a web site on this. All of the sites I have been to want's me to buy the book. I could easily do that however I am required to use the internet. Thank you in advance for you help
Mary <MBC5150>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 16:24:09 (GMT)

Huge savings
Are those bills coming in thick and fast every month?? You're probably paying to much for your telephone gas electric & mobile phone!? Well not no more because i found this and am saving a fortune on all those services and you can to go to www.come.to/cheapcalls and stop throwing money away start saving.
waz <warrenbell@lycos.co.uk>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 16:15:30 (GMT)

what happens next?
im in college now and im doing a childcare course im finding the work quite hard.i have done work experieince in a private nursery and i found it boring.so i did work in an infants school and i really enjoyed, please could you tell me what to do after my 2 year college course?
kathryn <kathg123@yahoo.co.uk>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 12:06:15 (GMT)

My first choice uni turned me down even before I even had an interview, a real pain as if I had got into that uni I could have stayed at home and saved myself a fortune. What I want to know is how can a uni say no to you just on the basis of a pice of paper? I think that it was based on the fact that my english standered and higher grades were not that good (3 and a D plus modules that counted towards my standered grade) but given a chance to explan why in my intervew with the second choice I was acepted and am now 7 months till I finish so don't give up if you get a disapointment at first.
Beth
- Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 18:29:32 (GMT)

carrie
are u from london by any chance, carrie? And belts are a health and safety risk, its been proven by the uni of sheffield who found that they interfered with safe moving and handling, so please do your research before you leap in

- Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 17:54:40 (GMT)

Excellent Nurses Required
We currently have vacancies for all levels and specialities. For more information contact email us or call 01389 603 930.
Argyll & Clyde Acute Hospitals NHS Trust <recruitmenthotline@vol.scot.nhs.uk>
- Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 11:31:26 (GMT)

Uniforms
Belts with a uniform dress are not a health & safety risk, that's daft! Wearing a belt with a uniform dress makes it look loads smarter and is more comfortable. We have a choice and nearly everyone chooses to wear a traditional dress and belt because we want to look like nurses not domestics. Appearance does matter, try asking patients what they think. I guess having a choice is what matters, but please do not accuse nurses who choose to wear a smart traditional uniform of being old fashioned. Certainly where I am hardly anyone chooses to wear a tunic & trousers outfit.
Carrie
- Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 09:23:09 (GMT)

HELP!! I need an e-mail buddy
I am a nursing student in Georgia. I need to find a nursing student out of my state or country to communicate with about issues talked about in our class there are 15 modules. If you are intrested please e-mail me at hatll@hotmail.com Thank you. Hollie
Hollie <hat11@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 02:56:03 (GMT)

exam tips please
i really need some ggod exam tips as i have to write 16 pages in 3 hours and one scenario is on an MI pt please help?
sharon <s.macdonald@talk21.com>
- Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 00:41:22 (GMT)

why would anyone want to weara dress, i as a student wear a white dress and a pink belt to show that i am in my third year these are inpractical and as all the nurses where i train are in tunic an dtrousers they often ask why i am wearing a dress, be thankful you have an option of tunic and trousersi did not.anyway belts are now classed as a health and safety risk and are no longer allowed to be worn so the new studenst have tunic and trousers, move with the times we have come a long way since dresses

- Monday, January 14, 2002 at 22:18:18 (GMT)

some people i know were turned down for diploma courses because they didnt have good a level passes. Apparently they are only going to accept people onto nursing courses in the future with A levels ,Well thats acording to what i was told at one university.

- Monday, January 14, 2002 at 13:40:16 (GMT)

I got turned down by one university because I had too many credits towards my BA. They told me to try teaching instead. My second choice turned me down because I was too mature (38) They turned everybody over 30 down even two paramedics. Turns out if you were fresh out of school and looked innocent they took you. Less chance of you having an opinion and life experience

- Monday, January 14, 2002 at 06:23:39 (GMT)

turned down!! We are supposed to be short of nurses!!!! Just because an individual is outspoken doesn't mean they are less of a nurse, even more of a reason to recruit them as a a student nurse

- Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 21:39:33 (GMT)

Hope this helps
Think up some good alternatives to some questions because if your first in the group to be asked its fine but if your fifth and everyone has said all the good answers, your buggered. Also, I've been reliably informed that they are looking at how well you work in a team so look interested in what everyone else is saying and try to link your answer to the others. Use the one to one to blow your own trumpet but dont try and show off in the group interview - a friend of mine rang the uni to find out why was turned down and was told she came across as very loud, arrogant and could have been a disruptive influence to the rest of the group during the course! Good Luck
Sylv
- Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 19:18:11 (GMT)

oops!! spelt you wrong, sorry!

- Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 17:38:16 (GMT)

I had to do an essay at Manchester when i had my interview and then interviewed by 2 nurses> it wasn't really that bad. Yoiu just need to know a little about whats hapenning in the NHS and a little knowlege about what you think nursing is about.

- Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 17:37:36 (GMT)

crisis time
got an interview this week,apparently this is going to involve a "group discussion" and a "written exercise"as well as a one on one! HELP! any advice anyone???
james
- Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 15:45:42 (GMT)

because i applied for the spring start in 2 unis and the autumn start in another 2.i reckon i'm going to start in april,why wait??
gooordon
- Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 13:51:40 (GMT)

Im going to start in september coz thats when most other uni students start. Plus you get the advantage of freshers week at uni!

- Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 21:32:08 (GMT)

Gordon - how come you have a choice?!

- Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 21:14:52 (GMT)

choices,choices
hmm,i don't know whether or not to start my dip in april or wait till october.any opinions on when the best time to start is?
gordon
- Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 21:02:34 (GMT)

Well last week all i did on placement was make drinks for staff on the ward, mop the floor, clean the toilets Great learning experience eh? Can't wait to become qualified with a dip He in tea making!

- Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 19:59:07 (GMT)

we hate leeds, we hate leeds, moaning twats.

- Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 17:22:32 (GMT)

guess again you boring loser

- Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 13:43:00 (GMT)

by the way
It is the dawn of a new horizon for lonely Matt's love life by the way - I seem to be dating a staff nurse who I worked bank shifts with. Actually plucked up the courage to ask her out the other week, so we went out for drinks! Guess I'm not as dull as I thought!
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 21:06:35 (GMT)

Nursing Process
Try any edition of 'The elements of nursing' by Roper Logan and Tierney. There should be something in there about the nursing process. I can't suggest anywhere else to look I'm afraid.
Matt <renton@breathe.com>
- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 21:04:41 (GMT)

The Nursing Process
Could anyone please help me ????????? I'm trying to find a -ve quote about the nursing process with no joy. My fingers are covered in paper cuts and my eye red and blotchy from looking (though I'm sure that all the alcohol consumed over xmas didn't help) If anyone can help I'll be totally patheticly grateful for ever and ever.......................thanks Jean
Jean <hoganj2000@yahoo.com>
- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 18:30:37 (GMT)

Must be Mad
Hi Claire cheers for the reply i will look into it, as for changing my mind, well....i have always felt really out of place doing my adult nursing, have never enjoyed ward work and prefer spending my time listening to people. I will go into theatre nursing until i can get get into mental health (thats the plan anyway!!!!)
Tash <tashlansley@yahoo.com>
- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 12:27:27 (GMT)

RECRUITMENT - Training Officer - Nursing Standards
I know a recruitment agency who have a job working for a UK charity. I've heard via a friend that the charity want to recruit someone from a nursing background with approx. 4-5 years experience. The salary is £24,000 plus benefits. It is a genuine job. If you want more information, then please make contact via my e-mail address. I promise that this is a genuine job.
Rachel Haile <rachehaile@hotmail.com>
- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 09:09:55 (GMT)

Lucky you, that don't lift patients anymore. Must be an ideal hospital setting in an ideal world....

- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 03:38:51 (GMT)

Convertion
If you want to go from adult to mental health I believe its a relatively simple process, just see if your uni does conversion courses... I think they are about a year or so in duration. Hmm, Mental Health? What made you change your mind? Personally I think I smoke enough without being a MH nurse :)
Claire
- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 00:38:50 (GMT)

Help!!!
Can anyone out there help me? im a third year student nurse (adult branch) after (hopefully) i qualify i would like to go on to mental health nursing but i dont know how to go about it, can anyone help?
Tash <tashlansley@yahoo.com>
- Friday, January 11, 2002 at 00:21:11 (GMT)

re:im stuck!!!!
i have an exam soon and it is the big one in the town hall, does anyone have an idea how you assess, implement, evalute etc a mi pt? what is the main care of an mi pt, what if he is a hindu? and what kind of blood tests would you do and how do you interpret ck and tropt test? i really could do with sme suport
sharon <s.macdonald@talk21.com>
- Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 21:36:24 (GMT)

Threads
They'd have to drag me (or move me efficiently, of course ;) screaming and kicking before I'd put on a dress again. And tights!!! Sweat-inducing, expensive, fragile, static-forming blasted articles...the devil invented tights. The tunic and trousers are fine by me. Candy stripe blue is our goal in my region.
Sassy
- Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 20:55:58 (GMT)

Whats the job? bullshitter of the year?!

- Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 19:07:34 (GMT)

Are you looking to get out of Nursing????
I know someone who is looking to recruit an ex-nurse with about five years experience to move into a TRAINING role? Interested???? Then e-mail me at my hotmail account. The job is paying £24,000. Good luck!!
Rachel Haile <rachehaile@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 17:28:03 (GMT)

more anout uniforms!
I personally prefer wearing a trouser and tunic set. At my uni they werent provided for our intake and we complained, now other intakes have the option of wearing them an/or a dress. Whilst the starched dress, belt and buckle, paper hat and polished shoes may have been all the rage when nurses were paid less than toilet cleaners, it certaintly isnt the issue now. I prefer a practical uniform which doesnt mean showing the patients your underwear whenever you bend down! and i share this opinion with many other nurses. My job in critical care means wearing theatre attire, however, if i had taken a ward job with my trust, i would have been able to wear a smart trouser suit, which offers practicality and dignity. Peoples opinions, especially male preoccupations with nurses attire, will never change whilst the likes of carry on nurse portrays an image nursing can do without. Oh, and by the way jenny we dont lift patients anymore?!!Nursing has moved on (or rather is moving on)!
ange
- Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 17:10:51 (GMT)

Why do some of the senior staff on placements treat us student nurses like shit? they are so rood and seem to forget that they were in the same place years ago. For gods sake if any of you senior staff who have this attitude are reading its about time you fuck off!
anon
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 22:32:29 (GMT)

Bursaries
STRESS HELP!!! Im starting my nursing course in september and need advice on how to live on an NHS bursary. Can anyone help? Paul
Paul <paulyeomans18@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 22:05:44 (GMT)

Help
I need to communicate with other nursing students in different states regarding topics we discuss in class. If anyone is interested please email me. Any help with this will be greatly appreciated. I have to do this for a grade. Thanks!!
Paige <jlight@darientel.net>
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 21:51:19 (GMT)

Mis-sold uniform
My girlfriend recently bought a nurse's outfit, but it is nothing like the uniforms previously here described. She feels cheated, and we be returning the whole lot to the shop tomorrow, except for the navy blue knickers.
Jack
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 20:27:01 (GMT)

the HCA's at our local hospital wear pink and white stripey dresses. Just think if they changed to tunic and trousers, that might mean PINK trousers!!(including the male HCA's)
<kate>
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 18:49:57 (GMT)

i have had enough of the tunic and trousers i am expected to wear as a student. If one more person asks me if i am a physio then i will scream! The tunic and trousers are hot in the summer, and also many of the student nurses have had the embarrassment of bending down only to split open the rear portion of their trousers!! Of course the trousers are of a poor quality and the seams stitched badly!!!

- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 18:47:11 (GMT)

er, what, so you're saying that all female nurses prefer wearing dresses? Why is it that most of the nurses I see wear tunics and trousers??? I don't think everyone has to be a radical feminist.

- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 17:10:31 (GMT)

Uniforms
Sorry, you're right of course. I do understand this whole issue must seem irrelevant to you men, but it is important to the 90% of nurses who are female.
Jenny
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 16:41:08 (GMT)

so in that case Jenny, male nurses look like clleaners and do not have a professional identity? Or perhaps you would see us all in dresses as well? In all the hospitals I have worked in there has been a choice for female nurses as to whether they wear dresses or trousers. No one feels forced to wear a uniform they don't want. And having said that, most nurses (female) I have worked with actually hate wearing dreses.

- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 12:17:24 (GMT)

uniforms
Don't despair, many hospitals do still provide a "real" uniform. I think it is really important. A smart, distinctive professional uniform is trusted by patients and inspires confidence. Good design can allow for safe lifting techniques by having pleats in the skirt and back of the dress and shoulder vents. Wearing a belt looks really smart and helps safe lifting by supporting the back. Student Nurses at my Uni wear a blue and white striped dress with the design features I have mentioned above and a maroon red Petersham belt. Staff Nurses wear the same dress but with a blue belt and silver buckle. We all think it is really smart and also comfortable to wear and safe to lift patients. I have friends who work at a hospital where the nurses all wear tunics and trousers, they hate it because they feel they have lost their unique professional identity. We should all be proud to be nurses and to wear a uniform that clearly says "I'm a Nurse" rather than a characterless and purely functional style that will result in us becoming invisible. If you wear a "real" uniform make sure you keep it, if your College of Nursing makes you wear an awful trouser suit that makes you look like a cleaner then lobby for at least the choice of having a proper professional uniform.
Jenny
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 10:06:47 (GMT)

Uniforms
Where I work, uniforms are your own choice. Even the cleaners wear scrubs. We buy our own, clean our own, and no tax deductions or clothing allowances. Funny thing happened the other week. Wore a blue dress uniform and the resident we've have from the UK was the only one who recognized me as a nurse....

- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 02:08:54 (GMT)

PS
I've just finished my second to last assignment, looks like qualification is looming :-D
Claire
- Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 23:50:02 (GMT)

Uniforms
Dear god, if we had had a pink and white stripy dress, I would not be 8 months off qualification now - i'd be doing the post-grad sociology course I had been accepted to ;) Our uniform is pretty bad, though its not the worst I have seen (almost, though not quite)... our CFP uniform on the other hand was abismal, white polo shirt with black or blue trousers, now if you think yours was close to the physio's uniform, you should have seen that one!
Claire
- Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 23:48:43 (GMT)

re: uniforms???
i think the uniform should be more colourful ie pink/white stripy dress with matching pink belt. so you look like a real nurse. i also think they should do away with drab colours that scare pts ie hammersmith hospital qualified nurses trouser/tunic
sharon
- Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 23:10:41 (GMT)

re:NG tube
thanx to beth and everyone else for thir help i have since found out after reading tons of books that the reason for the ng tube is to do with excess acid and the paralytic ileus. it would be used to aspirate bile and when bowel sounds are heard it would be removed. this is not common practice though it is just TVU!!!!
sharon <s.macdonald@talk21.com>
- Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 23:08:20 (GMT)

yes i agree pauline. The fact that patients no longer know the identity of a registered nurse. Many years ago a staff nurse would always wear a dress, buckle and belt and the patient would be in no doubt about the identity and probable expertise of the nurse. Ok the tunic and trousers may be practical for moving and handling purposes but patients often think the nurses are physio's and some of the trousers worn actually make staff look like quik fit fitters!!!

- Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 18:12:57 (GMT)

Uniforms.
Why do we have to wear such awful uniforms? I hate the tunic and trouser suit, it makes us look like workers in a burger bar rather than nurses. Why can't we have a real nursing uniform, for example a blue and white striped dress with an elasticated belt. This was the style my older sister wore 5 years ago when she was a student nurse and it looked really smart and professional. I am fed up with looking scruffy, let's bring back proper uniforms.
Pauline Fuller <wergle@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 14:34:27 (GMT)

peadiatric nursing
Could you please give me all the infor you have on paediatric nursing please and what unversity train it.
Rachel Trevis
- Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 12:48:59 (GMT)

Hobbes if your still about - How did you find out about nursing in New Zealand, did you go through an agency or make personal contact?

- Monday, January 07, 2002 at 15:56:41 (GMT)

i have nursed patients who have had an appendixectomy and have never had an NG tube. the only other reason i can thnk of is that because it is a operation on the bowel well near it then peopel can get a paraltic ilieus (no bowel movements) therefore contents of the bowel would overflow in the stomach an an NG woul dremov ethis, but this is not common practice with appenix and papalytic ilieus is unlikely to ocur Sarah

- Monday, January 07, 2002 at 13:47:38 (GMT)

I would like to apply for nursing
Dear sir / madam, I would like to aplly for nursing in British. I have been working as a nursing-aide for more than fourteen years and have gained a lot of experience in various department in private hospitals.I am currently employed as a renal dialysis nurse. I am very keen to upgrade myself as I have a yearning to be a registered nurse. But I am looking for a hospital which can provide me with bursary as I cannot afford the tution fees. I am thirty six years old married female with no kids and live in Malaysia. Hoping for and early and favourable reply. Thank you. Yours faithfully, Sukhveer kaur khalsa.
Sukhveer Kaur Khalsa <sukhveerkaur@hotmail.com>
- Monday, January 07, 2002 at 11:55:26 (GMT)

there must be more to it than that
I cannot figure out why an appendectomy patient would need an NG tube. Are you sure that there is no more to it than that? How old is the patient by the way? I am still in school and would really love to know if anyone can come up with anything other than altered nutrition status. Years ago, my 4 yr old daughter and a friends' son had appendectomies with no NG tube placement. I have also known 2 or 3 adults to have "routine" appendectomies with no NG. I would love to add this to my knowledge base if someone can come up with an answer!
Cherry <cpiern2000@cs.com>
- Monday, January 07, 2002 at 10:46:17 (GMT)

ahem, antacids?

- Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 18:08:07 (GMT)

peritonitis produces a lot of acid in the GI tract so maybe the NG was passed to aspirate the acid contents of the stomach
rachel
- Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 17:59:11 (GMT)

i have not seen a apendextamy patient with a NG tube in but i have worked with some NG patients and the knowlage was from that. thats why i said to check the info first
beth
- Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 13:17:13 (GMT)

why would peritinitis warrant having an NG tube? I also suspect that IV anti emetics could be given to reduce sickness if the patient was nil by mouth. Perhaps (or is it too simple) the patient would have extreme loss of appetite after the appendectomy, and NG would be the only means of getting nutrition?

- Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 10:44:46 (GMT)

have worked on ward with patients having routine appendectomy's. They didn't require NG tube, but I suspect that an NG tube may be required if there was a complication such as peritonitis. Otherwise, like Beth I would think it may have been a measure taken to give nutritional support

- Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 22:52:41 (GMT)

Can't be certen this is right but maybe if the patient is nill by mouth then the NG can be used to draw up the acid from the empty stomich as this can cause the patient to feel sick (sickness could also be caused by the opioids being used for pain control) or to could just be to top up their nutrition if they are not eating but please don't quote me untill you make sure i'm not wrong.
Beth
- Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 22:18:08 (GMT)

help im stuck!
does anyone know why you would have a NG tube in situ after an appendectomy? what direct care would u use i have an exam in 2 wks in Ealing town hall
sharon <s.macdonald@talk21.com>
- Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 20:24:24 (GMT)

Guess?
He's too busy packing for New Zealand, I expect. You lucky, lucky...Hobbes person you!
Sassy
- Friday, January 04, 2002 at 18:32:55 (GMT)

Wheres Hobbes lately?

- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 17:45:54 (GMT)

i ment my name is Sarah

- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 15:47:16 (GMT)

if you want to know who i am sarah, i just sent the last two messages

- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 15:46:44 (GMT)

oh and HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone

- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 15:44:34 (GMT)

hello again, just want to say good luck to anyone that is qualifying in january especially if they study at DMU as we finish in two weeks , so good luck everyone

- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 15:43:12 (GMT)

Journo In The Skirting Boards
Hi everyone. My name's Tony Fyler, and I'm the brand spanking new Journalist at Thornbury. If there's anything about your training you think deserves a wider audience than this message board, I may well be able to help you. I'm also looking for your impressions of training, what you'd rather be learning about than the World Health Organisation, what your ideas are about the future of nursing in both private and NHS terms, and essentially anything else you'd like to get off your chest. I'm in the middle of getting my e-mail set up, and when I do, I'll put it up here, but in the meantime, if you want to talk to me, you can post messages for me on this board - I'll be watching. Cheers Tony PS - I've heard a lot of you say you can't see the relevance of what you're learning to real-life situations. If it's any comfort, when I was at uni, I had to write essays on "The concept of Childhood in fourteenth century England". I know you shouldn't speak too soon, but so far, that's been of absolutely no use to me whatsoever. Still, if ever you need to know about it, you know where to come. :o) Cheers
Tony
- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 14:35:28 (GMT)

Sharon, every day i wake and praise the higher being that this is not the USA! (no thanks to the government tho')
Europe 4 ever
- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 13:30:08 (GMT)

oxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxooxoxoxoxoxo
oxoxoxooxoxooxooxooxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
mickey10 <fitters@rcn.com>
- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 01:28:25 (GMT)

4461677
hznznff
michael <fitters@rcn.com>
- Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 01:27:32 (GMT)

Assignments and Christmas
Why is it that assignments always seem to be due in around christmas time ? Im a second yr student in Wrexham school of nursing and our 5,000 wrd physiology is due in next week, it has haunted me all over christmas! we always have so much work to do and so little time, one of the sections was on the renal system and we were all told to wait for the lectures before attempting to do it, the only problem being that we had the lectures on 20th Dec and broke up for Christmas the next day, what with the annual knees up and general staggering around town taking place the next day the renal system was not exactly top of my list of things to do!!!Ar well I was frantically trying to understand the ins and outs of the nephron and needed a diversion, luckily I stumbled across this web site, Im glad to know you are all out there going through the same kinda stuff .Happy New Year , good luck we'll need it.
clare <clareand shaun@tiscali.co.uk>
- Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 23:35:48 (GMT)

has any body heard about this site?????
spread the news for 2002! chat site for students when i tell people about this site they have never heard of it . if this were USA they would support each other and assist to obtain qualification. so tell everyone and broadcast this site to your uni!!!!!!
sharon <s.macdonald@talk21.com>
- Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 16:53:35 (GMT)

Whoops, don't know what happened there!!! I was going to say Happy New Year to everyone, so HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
H
- Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 11:57:32 (GMT)

H
H
- Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 11:56:34 (GMT)

Happy New Year Everyone
Best wishes and good luck to you all in 2002!
Catherine <catherine1jod31@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 00:18:39 (GMT)

happy new year!!!!!!!!!!!!

- Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 00:09:19 (GMT)

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