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TOP CONGRESS
I didn't win a bike but if theres any spare that no onw claims send it my way I'm on a get fa sorry fit programme. Hope everyone had a great time I thought the students ball was fab we'll try and top it next year See you all then or perhaps at ANS Conference 1-2 September Aston Uni. Another chance to talk nursing and have a great time. BE THERE
Andy
- Thursday, May 31, 2001 at 13:29:26 (BST)
goodnight
chris <bromilow christine >
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 23:40:13 (BST)
hi is anybody still up
chris <bromilowchristine@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 23:37:03 (BST)
Fabby Congress
I was lucky enough to be at congress and was also lucky enough to win one of the fabby bikes!!! The Brutish guys were amazing and I think the stand must have been the most visited at the whole exhibition. Looking forward to next year guys!!! Well done!!
Debbie <nursie_deb@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 22:04:42 (BST)
Fabby Congress
I was lucky enough to be at congress and was also lucky enough to win one of the fabby bikes!!! The Brutish guys were amazing and I think the stand must have been the most visited at the whole exhibition. Looking forward to next year guys!!! Well done!!
Debbie <nursie_bun@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 22:03:21 (BST)
ANYONE HAVE A GOOD TIME AT RCN CONGRESS ??
Anyone get anything good out of RCN Congress at Harrogate this year ?? Anyone visit the Brutish Nursing stand ?? Tell us what you thought of it all last week !!
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 11:08:30 (BST)
Working nights!!!
Dear Chris, I am very suprised to hear that you are rostered into nights in your first year... I would check your student handbook issued at the beginning of the course about protocols etc... I know different colleges have different ways of doing things, but as far as I can gather they are guided by the ukcc and ENB. At our college we are NOT to work nights in our first year, unless there are exceptional circumstances, ie need to catch up with a mentor etc (For one, student nurses are employed and insured by the colleges and not the hospital trusts)... I would closely check this, and make sure you are not being taken for a ride, seeing as this is your first placement and all..... Ask your tutors or go to your set rep for advice... .
ML
- Tuesday, May 29, 2001 at 22:59:35 (BST)
Lana Interview
hi there is a booklet produced by the RCN on how to prepare your self for an interview. the name of the publication is Directions 2001 and can be obtained from RCN Direct on the telephone number 0845 726 100. if you ask them for that publication they would forward it to you. email me with your postal address and i will have a copy sent to you. this gives you a detailed information on applying for a job and also how to prepare for your interview and writing of your CV. you can also contact nurseline and they will be able to help you. when you contact RCN Direct you can get their number from there.
<eboivo69@aol.com>
- Tuesday, May 29, 2001 at 16:35:15 (BST)
working nights
i have just started my training and on my first placement i am doing 4weeks days including weekends and then ii have to do 3weeks of nights, i believe this is a new thing that you have to do does anybody else have to
chris <bromilowchristine>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 23:47:47 (BST)
anybody there
hello is there anybody there who wants to chat
chris <bromilowchristine>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 23:39:21 (BST)
For 200 quid, sure - where can we form a que???????
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 19:59:00 (BST)
The scurge of my life
I have a management assignment to be in on wednesday. Its ruined my weekend and my bank holiday so if anyone would like to do it for me i will pay them 200 quid lol Big hello to ne one from queens university belfast qualifying very soon
Russ <nurserusty@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 19:04:30 (BST)
scary interviews
hi everyone, i am qualifying in 4 months and it is time for reality to hit and start applying for jobs, is there anyone out there who has been for intreviews and could help me get my act together?????
lana <lanatrotter@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 13:16:05 (BST)
hello
hello this is my first time on the chat room. i am a student nurse at edge hill ormskirk.I am trying to start my first assignment, but i dont know where to begin is there anybody from liverpool on line.
brom <bromilowchristine>
- Sunday, May 27, 2001 at 17:30:46 (BST)
IS IT HARD WORK??
i am going to be starting a nursing diploma soon , is it really hard work???? I will be doing at Guildford is anyone from there online??
SUZIE THORPE <SUZIEJUSTIN@AOL.COM>
- Saturday, May 26, 2001 at 21:07:29 (BST)
THORNBURY ROUND OFF SUCCESSFUL CONGRESS 2001
Leading agencies prominent throughout RCN Congress
Both Thornbury Nursing Services and The Scottish Nursing Guild have finished this year's RCN Congress at Harrogate on a high. The twin specialist nursing agencies drew maximum attention throughout the three days allocated to exhibitors this week at the RCN's annual event for the nursing world.
From the moment that doors opened to the nursing public this week, eyes were drawn to the stands being run by Thornbury and Guild staff. A brand new "Smart" car was on display, ready to be drawn as a prize for one lucky nurse, and lap-top computers, free bottles of wine and leisure vouchers were also on offer on both stands. Nurses were drawn too by the outstanding payrates on offer for nurses ready to undertake temporary assignments for either agency.
Among the many visitors to the stand were famous faces in the nursing world. Dr Beverly Malone, the in-coming General Secretary of the RCN came to meet the Thornbury team, and agreed to make the prize draw for the car herself. Christine Hancock, the incumbent RCN General Secretary was present too, and took time to chat to Robert Murgatroyd, the Chief Executive of Thornbury and The Guild and Executive President of FINA (The Federation of Independent Nursing Agencies). The BBC's ten o'clock news team also made a point of visiting the Guild stand on Tuesday to catch some of the excitement on tape.
Thornbury and The Guild were additionally active on the fringes of Congress throughout the three days, and hosted a number of extra events, including focus group discussions on current nursing issues, on-the-spot interviews for nurses wanting to join the two leading agencies, and evening drinks parties for those needing to unwind after the exhaustion of listening to the main debates and the electioneering speeches of visiting politicians such as Claire Short and Dr Liam Fox.
This year the popular student web site "Brutish Nursing" (www.brutish-nursing.com) was introduced in the Congress Exhibitors' Hall, drawing a lot of attention to its stand on student day (Wednesday) in particular. Free drinks were on hand in the Brutish cyber cafe, and a free mountain bike was on offer as a prize to one lucky student on each of the three days. Brutish Nursing concluded their successful Congress debut on Wednesday evening by sponsoring a highly civilised drinks party for students amidst glorious evening sunshine in the gardens of the nearby Cairn hotel. Around 100 students attended the party and behaved impeccably throughout, despite lively discussions on the part students should play in nursing through the next decade.
Robert Murgatroyd, Chief Executive of both Thornbury and The Guild, commented "We have all had a fantastic RCN Congress this year. Record numbers have come to our stands wanting to know how they can join us or thanking us for the support we already give them. Many of our visitors have been able to walk away with prizes (some of them very substantial), and we have been able to promote the vital importance of the nursing agency sector in UK nursing today. We couldn't have asked for more, and I want to thank everyone in my Thornbury, Guild and Brutish teams for their hard work before and during this week. At the end of the day, it is our people, both staff and nurses, that make us a really special agency".
Detailed reports on key events of this week can be viewed on Thornbury's Congress 2001 web pages.
Thornbury, The Guild & Brutish Nursing
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 11:18:10 (BST)
BRUTISH WINNERS FOR THE WEEK
First off, a huge thank-you to everyone who came and visited us at RCN Congress this year. I think it is fair to say everyone had an excellent time - both day and night. All the winners of vouchers from our hourly draws and the Big Brutish Bike Winners will be contacted shortly.
Make sure to check out our chat section on Brutish Nursing over the next week to see who won all the prizes.
Again thanks from all the Thornbury Nursing Services, Scottish Nursing Guild & Brutish Nursing team. See you all next year.
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 11:16:18 (BST)
health promotion
Can anyone help me with links to any good articles on the net? I am tackling this vast subject on health promotion to do with 'health promotion on an acute medical ward' and if it is relavant with such degenerative diseases. Many thanks.
Nat Mills <natwm@blueyonder.co.uk>
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 10:05:35 (BST)
Psych nurses deal with the mind. Doesn't mean they can spell!
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 04:30:54 (BST)
RPN and all that
Dearest Sandy, if you want to do well in your 'RPN' course, I recommend that you learn to spell.
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 00:26:12 (BST)
need help with essay"future nursing trend in computer technology
hi everyone, i am a colloge student doing a RPN course, but i am stuck and i need some help Is there anyone out there who help me to start the essay thanks!
sandy <audriar@sympatico.ca>
- Thursday, May 24, 2001 at 21:30:06 (BST)
Entering First Year
Hey everyone, I am about 3 1/2 months away from entering my first year of my nursing diploma program at Centennial College in Toronto, Canada. I am extremely nervous and unsettled about starting my course. I was just wondering if this is a normal reaction to such a huge change? Did any of you feel this way when you first started? If so let me know! Jenny baseballchick8@excite.com
Jenny <baseballchick8@excite.com>
- Wednesday, May 23, 2001 at 18:08:52 (BST)
ALL TODAY'S CONGRESS WINNERS
Check out to see if your name is in the list !!
All today's voucher winners !!
C. Lloyd-West
D. Ramd Hayan
Barbara Jarvis
Jane Morton
Lynne Wyre
Mary Holland
Louise Wylie
Abida Shabir
Terry Hill
S.J. Spencer
Phil Harper
Rosemary Cameron
Frances Bulmer
Tina Collins
Sarah Jewell
GRAND PRIZE BIKE WINNER - KATHLEEN HOWARD -Congratulations !
Make sure to check back tomorrow at Student Day @ Congress for more great chances !!
Brutish Webmaster <webmasater@brutish-nursing.com>
- Tuesday, May 22, 2001 at 16:59:54 (BST)
ALL TODAY'S LUCKY BRUTISH WINNERS !!
TODAY'S LUCKY WINNER OF THE BIKE
Debbie McKinnon - Congratulations from Brutish Nursing
Leisure Voucher Winners
Mrs J. E. Downes
Catherine Linney
Peter Cartwright
Linda Williams
Mrs A. Marson
Chris Grange
Elizabeth Dallas
Stephen McSherry
Sam Kiani
Carla Potts
David Harding
L.A. Lockton
Make sure to contact us if your name is mentioned. Plenty more to come tomorrow as well.
Brutish Webmaster <webmasater@brutish-nursing.com>
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 18:50:06 (BST)
re; HCA
I had a bad first placement a patient i had been attending to at the beginning of my shift came up to me and told me that a nurse and a hca had been slagging me off behind a curtain .They said that i was getting above myself because i wanted to attend a talk on wound care! When i approached themm they denied it but several other members of staff had also heard their conversation.I reported it to my tutor who then went on to take it to head of department,the two were cautioned ( nothing to severe).But i had the last say i cornered both of them and told them if they had a problem with me ,they come to me not the rest of the ward! I then went on to give them a lashing of my tongue and told them i was not such a pushover and they would have to be careful in the future because i would have the last word !! So dont let them grind you down remember you are above all the bitching that goes on just say if it continues they will be reported to the RCN for misconduct.
mich
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 18:39:33 (BST)
Brutish @ Congress Kicks Off
Brutish Nursing at RCN Congress, Harrogate has kicked off this morning. Make sure to visit us on stand C143 !!You can win great prizes including a bike each day, vouchers every hour, plus much more. Be Bold...Be Brutish! Give us a try !
Brutish Webmatser <webmaster@brutish-nursing.com>
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 12:43:20 (BST)
Making sense of it all..
Another death on the ward today...but this one was so different to any other I've dealt with. After months of pain and remorse this man died with his family around him... and with a smile on his face. It's probably the most beautiful thing that I've experienced, so far, in my training. I really can't explain it. It makes all of the hard work and the struggles of studentship worthwhile, makes all of our gripes pale into insignificence. I was part of the team that helped him come to terms with his impeding death, not that I'm asking for any praise, just that if that's the way it's going to be, then it is a sure reminder of why we are here. Obviously, if we can rehabilitate patients so that they are well enough to go home, then that is excellent. If the inevitable is death, however, then our job is to make the last few days easier for the patient and the relatives. And this is one of the many moments in a nursing career that makes you stand back and evaluate the reason why we have chosen this as our vacation. Not everybody's cup of tea, but for anybody, like myself, considering a career in palliative care, an experience like this has to be a good enough reason to stick with the training - "to make a difference". I think that I have helped to achieve this. Yes, I'm upset and yes, there are still other patients on the ward who still need my care - life goes on, but this experience has taught me more about nursing than any lecture can ever hope to achieve.
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 03:44:12 (BST)
Still Counting....!
Hello Again All, Two days and counting. Those of you coming to RCN Congress, in Harrogate, don't forget to come and visit us on Stand C143, Hall C, at the Exhibition Hall. There will be lots going on, so why not drop into our Cyber Cafe, surf the net, and enter our competition. Win some great prizes including Mountain Bikes, and a DVD Player. And don't forget our Big, Bad Brutish Booze Up, on Wednesday Night. Call in before the ANS/RCN Student Ball. There'll be prizes for the best ressed Glam Rocker. So don't forget Stand C143, Hall C. See you there. Phil
Phillip Hufton - Development Manager <phillip.hufton@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Saturday, May 19, 2001 at 09:35:14 (BST)
i must admit i have found that some HCA's have an attitude. I have yet to find a staff nurse with a real chip on their shoulder. I have just done my maternity placement and i overheard 2 HCA's slagging off patients, other staff and student nurses and midwives. They made me feel uncomfortable throughout my 3 weeks there.
rachel
- Saturday, May 19, 2001 at 00:18:19 (BST)
Reply to Michelle
Replying from your message from May 13th regarding HCA's that treat you like dirt. I think sometimes that people that are like that do not like their jobs and just like to take authority and feel like they are in charge when in fact they are jealous of a student nurse. They are either to lazy or do not have enough brains to go back to school and better themselves. Has any one ever come across rude, sarcastic, mean nurses that treat student nurses bad! Try being in clinicals and having nurses (that were once students also) treat you like dirt. It happened last semester. When I graduate next year I'm writing a letter to the head of the hospital where I had the clinicals and explaining the poor professionalism that these nurses have.(They need to find a new profession)And even if that hospital was offering bonuses, better pay, I would still not work in that facility. Just remember Michelle when we become RN's treat students and HCA's with respect because we all have to start somewhere.
Denise
- Friday, May 18, 2001 at 19:00:40 (BST)
just off to start a late shirt in ae dept, feel lousey flued up may even come home early if i act sick enough. any one got any good excuses?
mich
- Friday, May 18, 2001 at 11:59:34 (BST)
COUNT DOWN IS PROGRESSING !!!
Hello All, Countdown to RCN Congress 2001 is moving apace, and all the Brutish Team are working hard to ensure you have a great time. We will be there, with our Cyber Cafe, on Stand C143, Hall C, at the Exhibition Centre. Come along and join the fun, surf the net, make yourself heard, and win some great prizes!! Enter our great raffle and win HMV or Marks and Spencers Vouchers. We are also giving away 3 great mountain bikes, and an amazing portable DVD Player. So be sure to pay us a visit. Why not join us on Wednesday Night, between 6 and 8PM, for the Big, Bad, Brutish Booze Up!! Visit us at Stand C143, to pick up your Free Ticket! Keep watching this space, for more info, more fun, more prizes, and remember, Be Bold, Be Brutish! Look forward to seeing you at Harrogate, Cheers! Phil
Phillip Hufton - Development Manager <phillip.hufton@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 20:28:28 (BST)
COUNT DOWN IS PROGRESSING !!!
Hello All, Countdown to RCN Congress 2001 is moving apace, and all the Brutish Team are working hard to ensure you have a great time. We will be there, with our Cyber Cafe, on Stand C143, Hall C, at the Exhibtion Centre. Come along and join the fun, surf the net, make yourself heard, and win some great prizes!! Enter our great raffle and win HMV or Marks and Spencers Vouchers. We are also giving away 3 great mountain bikes, and an amazing portable DVD Player. So be sure to pay us a visit. Why not join us on Wednesday Night, between 6 and 8PM, for the Big, Bad, Brutish Booze Up!! Visit us at Stand C143, to pick up your Free Ticket! Keep watching this space, for more info, more fun, more prizes, and remember, Be Bold, Be Brutish! Look forward to seeing you at Harrogate Cheers Phil
Phillip Hufton - Development Manager <phillip.hufton@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 20:25:47 (BST)
Nursing Home Placement
I have just started my 4 week nursing home placement, what a waste of time. A week would have been long enough.My "assessor" (for want of a better word) was telling all the care assistants that I wasn't supernumary!!! I soon put her straight! So far I haven't been taught anything new, but am getting lots and lots of practice with washing and dressing patients!!!!
Angela <stephen@sbidgood.fsnet.co.uk>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 11:11:09 (BST)
whats all this HCA tosh
dont u hate call bells...who's the wise a** who invented them?....anyway.got to go update some care plans.ta ta ......who am I kidding..its time for a smoke
stu again....
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 05:24:59 (BST)
nights are a dragggggggg
anyone else got net access on the niteshift......I'm usually bored but tonites a diff. kettle o' fish.....Anyone train at Raigmore hosp in the last ten years??......Fluke Inn Rools Im sooooooo tired ..wake up people..the early shift beckons...have a nice day!
stu
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 05:19:58 (BST)
Can you / would you be able to help me find a job?
I am very interested in being a nurse and I was wondering if you knew anyone with a job avalable for like a nurses assitant or was looking for help in like a hospital or nursing home . I am 14yr's old my birth day is july 3,1986 and I live on the east side of cleveland ,ohio you already have my email address so I ask that you please let me know something if you find some infomation. thank you!
Sherrie Vaughn <caroberts19@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 00:39:47 (BST)
anyone there
ay up is there anyone there or are you all watching footie ,i need stimulating conversation been doing my assignment on nursing interventions, so come on down i've only just found this web site sooo whats it like?
pud
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 22:04:58 (BST)
god ur a bit heavy going into it a bit 2 deep it's just a figure of speech, hate to think wot u do 4 a laugh!!!
michelle
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:28:59 (BST)
sorry
sorry about the spelling especially there jobs it should be their jobs . In the middle of doing my assignment.
michelle
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:20:48 (BST)
Matt Its a well known phrase to new students -'the first year flies by, the second year drags by and the third year is over before you know it'. As a first year I don't know how true this is except to say that people always seem to say time passed by quickly - but in only in retrospect
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:12:06 (BST)
to matt
hi matt i'm now approaching 21mnth into my training god it flys i'm surprised i made it this far! at the moment coming to the end of my a-e dept placement if theres one placement i feel useless it's here. everyone knows there jobs and i think students are just there to porter to x-ray or transfer to wards.can't say i will pick it for my elective so much in not being rostered we are counted in the numbers in most placements but hey wot the heck i'll be qualified soon.
michelle
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:03:57 (BST)
Alright for some!
I wish I was off to Gran Canaria! Still, Sheffield might be sunny on the weekend. In my dreams.
Matt
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 20:54:35 (BST)
Matt
Just about to enter my second year, I can imagine it will drag, that in-between stage!! Not looking forward to it now I know what hard work it all is!! Anyway I'm off to Gran Canaria on Saturday to get drunk and forget about nursing til we get back!! Bye Anita
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 20:50:32 (BST)
Second year itch
Has anyone else found that the second year is a real drag and feels like it's lasting about ten years?
Matt
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 08:38:08 (BST)
Denise--re; one more year
Dear Denise....congratulations on getting this far, it's a haul all right. But take it from me and quite a few others...the work gets harder when you qualify!!Enjoy your student years 'cos those are a breeze compared to whats ahead..Good luck..ps it's worth it 'tho
Stuart <stumacd69@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 04:39:32 (BST)
Lucy
You should try taking your own advice Lucy.
Michelle
- Tuesday, May 15, 2001 at 17:59:04 (BST)
It is attitudes like yours Lucy that means we will always be exploited!!!!
- Monday, May 14, 2001 at 22:07:05 (BST)
Reply to Michelle
Stop moaning about others and get on with it. Look in a mirror if you want to find fault.
Lucy
- Monday, May 14, 2001 at 21:39:46 (BST)
HCAs
I am on a medical placement just now and whilst the majority of the HCA's on this ward are wonderful there are three who are just lazy cows and push their work load onto any student who happens to be walking past them! (You get at least one HCA like this on every ward!) Anyway, I have been in charge of 12 patients for the last few days, and when my assessor told the HCAs I was in charge of them their chins nearly hit the floor in disappointment! Needless to say they didn't bother trying to get me to do their jobs for them, but I did notice how they sought out other students (first year students) and dictated to them! These particular HCA's are condescending know it alls with no NVQ qualifications, that seem to resent student nurses being on their wards and I wish that people like this would sod off or realise that the title Student Nurse is not the same as Health Care Assistant!!! Sometimes I wonder if they resent fact that students are going to be qualified one day whilst they are still HCA's with very little or no ambition whatsoever! I am also appalled at how these particular HCA's treat patients, raising their voices and telling patients to shut up (yes I have complained to the Qualified staff about it) - all I can say is they are in the wrong bloody job altogether and I cannot fathom out why they stay in it, although may be it is because they have student nurses there to do their jobs for them whilst they slope off for a gossip or a fag. And yes us Student Nurses do work as hard as HCA's and we don't mind, but sometimes it does seem that we work non-stop whilst their work seems to be more leisurely! Some HCAs just take student nurses for granted, and its time this stopped! I don't know about anyone else, but if there has ever been a quiet period during a shift I tend to grab a medical book and read up on stuff, but God help you if a HCA sees you sitting at the nurses station reading! They bend over backwards to find you something to do, its as if it hurts them to see you sitting there trying to study! I wonder if they realise that after every shift we have a degree of studying to do, portfolios to write up e.t.c. e.t.c.!!! May be we should change our names to Super Student! Okay - rant over. Off to work now.
Michelle <mishl180_36@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, May 13, 2001 at 09:59:08 (BST)
BJN AWARDS PHOTOGRAPHS
Please go to Thornbury and Brutish at the BJN to see what went on.
Nigel <webmaster@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Sunday, May 13, 2001 at 02:29:50 (BST)
SPLIT DECISION AT THE BJN CLINCAL PRACTICE AWARDS 2001
Yesterday Thornbury Nursing Services, Brutish Nursing and UK Nursing Web Sites Ltd sponsored two categories in the BJN Clinical Practice Awards 2001. Robert Murgatroyd, CEO of Thornbury Nursing Services, presented the award in the Critical Care category to Catherine Ganner. Runners-up position was awarded to a group submission from Sue Harden, Britt Lindstrom and Per Bengtsson. David Toner's Nomination was awarded a highly commended. The judges in the Student Nurse of the Year category found the task of agreeing on an overall winner impossible due to the inseparably high standard of all three nominations. This resulted in a decision to split the award between the three nominees who shared the prize. Phillip Hufton, Communications Manager for Thornbury Nursing Services, presented Alison Coats, Shayra Hassan and Helen Jones with their awards. Robert Murgatroyd commented, "Thornbury Nursing Services, Brutish Nursing and UK Nursing Web Sites Ltd are very pleased to support the BJN Clinical Practice Awards. We recognise the importance of encouraging innovation and research-based clinical practice."
Nigel <webmaster@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Saturday, May 12, 2001 at 21:17:57 (BST)
Childcare
I really do sympathise with all of you who are trying to find suitable childcare. I started last October and didn't manage to find anything until the start of September. I was lucky enough to find a nursery which is run by a nurse who appreciates the awkward shift patterns and so allows us to book our places on a week-to-week basis, whereby we only pay for sessions used. My oldest daughter, (who is nearly 10yrs), goes to before and after school club, but by the time I enter my 3rd year she will start senior school (aged 11) where there is no such provision. Given the number of students with children, you would think that some provision was made by the schools of nursing/the bursary dept. Ooh, sorry! I've just woken up and realised how stupid I'm being!
Donna
- Saturday, May 12, 2001 at 01:22:19 (BST)
To ML:
Thanks for your reply to my message. I have a small confession to make though: I am the rep for our group - but haven't attented all meetings because even though we are excused from tutorials, I didn't want to miss lessons. Any burning issues we have had so far we have managed to sort out as a group (there are only 18 people in our half of the cohort). However, because we are the first cohort of the 'new' RnDiphe, I will be attending a course evaluation meeting (on the 21st May) with the course co-ordinator of the university and intend to raise this issue. As for bar work - in my experience you at least get paid extra for bank holidays! Good Luck.. and mine's a pint of bitter please!
Donna
- Saturday, May 12, 2001 at 00:08:14 (BST)
Childcare
Have had difficulty with childcare. Not enough spaces and when I was fortunate to find a nursery but cost is high! Had to wait approximately one year for place.
carroll
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 23:27:32 (BST)
Commission to Enquire into Child Abuse Eire - Industrial Schools
Dear All Book "States of Fear" Author: Mary Rafetry Documentary shown on RTE approximately 1999.
Carroll
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 23:25:29 (BST)
ONE MORE YEAR
I am almost done with my nursing program. I cannot believe I have made it this far! It will be nice to have a "real job" and not have to pick up a book again to study!!
Denise Moore <DMoore@Columbus.RR.Com>
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 22:56:50 (BST)
Childcare
Calling all student nurses and midwives who find childcare a major finacial issue - particularly those living in the Newham area of London - I have an appointment with my local MP next week and it would strengthen the case considerably if other student nurses/midwives living in the area could also speak out - email me at hadassah@euphony.net
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 22:44:01 (BST)
Eyes wide shut
And after school orchestras and sports clubs and free transport and great teacher to pupil ratios. I am sure while you wait for the green card the hospitals will do as they seem to do everywhere and take the mickey. However as an independant worker with resident alien status I find it hard to believe that in the most capitalist of societies, supply and demand does not equate to better conditions. I lived outside of Baltimore and while I was there, it was the 'chalk outline capital' of the US. The city averaged more than 280 murders per anum and if the net was cast wider into some of the associated deprived out of town areas, that figure would have rocketed. Crime is a problem, no doubting but in all the time I was there I never saw anything. Not even the sort of violence we see at the end of any night in any pub in the UK. The sort that we accept, 'bit of a slap' or someone getting bottled. I think the tragedy of the crime statistics in the States is that it relates to specific geographic areas literally. And as for the nights and unsocial bit, being a newbie here is hardly condusive. One of the girls I knew picked up some part of the first 14 weekends she worked as a qualified nurse and more than her share of the night rota. It was justified, as the staff 'planning' this thought she might need the extra cash. So much love in just the one place, makes me tearful...
Roger <roger@obermaier.freeserve.co.uk>
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 09:05:39 (BST)
Not the best of Britain Brigade-- Just know before you go
I wasn't knocking Mark. Just he seems to believe life will be wonderful. He doesn't seem to understand that you have to write a registration exam in EVERY state you work in. Move from Washington to Oregon and you have to write it again. The level of difficulty varies from extremely easy to do they think an MD??? Also, the employer doesn't pick up the tab, nurses do. As for unions, well wife will be at the low end of the pole. Unending nights can kill family life. But thats the same the world over. What he should have the wife ask is how well are foreign nurses regarded by their coworkers, why is there such a shortage in that State and trust me lack of students can't be held responsible for everything. Assaults on nurses are extremely high in some areas. I'm not saying don't go, just go with your eyes wide open. Oh, yeah what about quality of schools for those kids, how metal detectors do you have in your local school??? And I'm not talking inner city schools, just quiet suburbia
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 01:15:39 (BST)
The answer to nursing shortage
I hear all the hype how the nursing shortage crisis is because of lack of staffing, long hours etc. I got the real answer; We just need to demand more pay! Raise the salary and the rest will happen naturaly. So instead of having a million voices screaming a million different things getting us nowhere fast, we should all stand together and say it simple, "Pay us More!" That should be our rallying cry
Franko <know>
- Thursday, May 10, 2001 at 17:33:59 (BST)
Good to see the 'Britain is Best Brigade' are back!
Good luck to Mr Sellars and his family, strange how we regard those that emmigrate as something akin to traitors; yet regard those that migrate here as life's great adventurers? America is really a rather large place, (no really) and for those that have not been, quite varied in its nature. Not all of it resembles the back lot at 20th Century Fox, nor is it the middle of nowhere. A lot of it is, well in between. Middle America is largely wonderful, honest people with decent values and the apple pie is fresh and the welcome warm. I spent two happy years working VERY hard (as is the American way) but getting paid LOTS of money. It was not nursing or care work before you type. I am sure Mark will have to work for his dead presidents but equally he will live in a society where almost everything you need is cheaper. Additionally, almost everything you yearn for is also cheaper. What the Americans hold dear are the sort of Protestant work ethic their forefathers espoused and in return they are happy to reward people. It is not the sort of place where you could work for thirty years for someone and retire without even a bunch of flowers or a visit from the boss. They also have unions that are prepared to fight for the rights of their members in return for their levy. I should imagine they are explaining to the new girl at RCN HQ that solidarity, mutual respect and support are about as alien here as a decent wage. So, let us not pretend that all is great and good here at the heart of the empire.......
roger <roger@obermaier.freeserve.co.uk>
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 23:35:28 (BST)
other jobs!
I've done loads of bar work too, used to love it for a cheap sober night out, which brings me to the subject of student jobs other than.... nursing.... I have spoken to a few colleagues who have kept their p/t jobs in pubs, restaurants, stores etc, and they say the same, it is a sane saver... I was thinking of getting anohter job, as yes I am really broke now, & fed up of baked beans on toast every night, (and the beans keep getting stuck in the toaster)... I usually work for a nursing agency as hca, as I get to choose when I work, but I think I may need something different for a while to help de-stress... Is there anyone out there that has a view on jobs other than caring as a saviour, and what does everyone do, and how do you fit it all in???
ml <dlcct@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 23:23:04 (BST)
Oh and I'm Anita and thanks mate
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 22:24:17 (BST)
Incidentally, bar work is ACE fun, I've done it for 15 years and it keeps me sane now I'm doing my training - it is an escape
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 22:22:52 (BST)
ML
£1.90 for the bacardi and coke, 35p for crisps and 85p for the coke - OK, I'm skint!!!
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 22:22:07 (BST)
PPS
So were we, told about 3 years of supernumary, but I think we have to do some rostered in Yr 3, you know to get used to how it is when we qualify... makes sense really, but up til then we do have rights... the right to learn in a safe and student friendly environment.... (!!!???***!!!)
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:46:42 (BST)
To the pub worker, mines a bacardi and coke (large), ice and a slice and a cherry thanks, and a coke and a packets of crisps for my kids..... glad to hear you are coping so far, good luck in the future.
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:43:36 (BST)
ps
We were told when we started training last june that we will never be rostered, as it had been stopped. I will make sure I keep them to their word.
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:38:56 (BST)
Go to the course leaders,
FAO: DONNA, & any one else interested..... Yes the best place to start is with your individual course leaders or college deans. Most co-horts have set reps who have regular meetings to discuss these important issues... and this is one of them... I have checked with my institution and it is unethical for wards to use supernumary students as rostered staff.. basically it is not on!! However, as we all know, to blow the whistle goes a long way to making one's life a misery on placement, so the best way is to approach your set rep to bring concerns to course committee meetings, these minutes are usually passed onto deans etc, and there should be a reply. This can be done anonymously, as the set rep can use the 'on behalf of concerned students' get out clause. Some trusts are also now employing trust facilitators to deal with probs like these.... use them, they will not know what is going on until it is highlighted, and again you have the right to be anonymous. You may have the 'you have to work with your mentor' clause thrown at you, but check the off duty and see if you are being counted as rostered or not. The students on our ward became aware of students being used to make up numbers, and refused point blank to be a part of it... the managers know this is not allowed, and if refused with the right attitude there can be no comebacks, especially when done in a group, then no-one is singled out for discrimination or awkwardness.... it has worked for us so far. But yes go to the college for a start, don't moan and bitch behind closed doors... A) it doesn't acheive anything and brings down morale, and B)nothing gets done that way... you can but try... in the right way, and if all else fails go to your union steward.... Hope this helps.... From Year 1 student, somewhere down south, ..ML.
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:38:29 (BST)
ML
Ere Ere!! I work in a pub at weekends so I will be making sure I explain that I cannot do placement then. I have my bills to pay and my children to feed and I can't see a problem as long as we complete the required hours. Luckily all 3 placements that I have had have not expected me to work weekends, but I am expecting a bit of tutting sooner or later.
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:37:20 (BST)
ford sierra
Does anyone know of a good site for looking at pictures of Ford Sierras and Michael Jackson???
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 08:35:59 (BST)
Bank Holidays Revisited
Wow! So I am not alone afterall. A rep from the RCN told me that they have been trying for years to put a stop to students working BH's - obviously with no success - and that students have long been used for making up the numbers so that other staff can have the days off. There must be a way that we can put an end to this, it's bad enough that we are counted in the staffing numbers on normal days. As the universities are responsible for our working conditions, maybe we should start there with the student councils. We are being taken for granted and treated unfairly and I don't see why we should be used as a prop for a failing health service. Any ideas?
Donna
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 01:56:47 (BST)
ULTIMATUMS!
Has anyone been given an ultimatum regarding not wanting to work a bank holiday shift?? If you are on rostered placement then fair do's, (even though it is far from fair), but if u are supernumary then u may have every right to be unavailable for placement. Sometimes if u need to work with a mentor,have time to make up or have an objective to achieve then you may have no choice..... and more often than not (from experience) trying the assertiveness technique and politely asking not to be placed on shift for that date because of whatever reason etc etc, can get a better result than you might expect. Of course this is not an ideal world and we don't always get things as we want them sometimes, but surely (!!????!!) a super numary student cannot be penalised, verbally slated, given poor assessments or given an ultimatum for asking not to work on less than minimum wage for several days a year (ie the non-euro conformed bak holidays)... It would be interesting to know if anyone has be co-erced, forced, threatened or intimidated into not being able to be assertive enough to ask for this small privilage whilst on the supernumary. We all know towards the end we will be rostered and may not have much choice, and know even more that when qualified there may be even less choice, but there is a little more reward (ie ££'s) when qualified. SO... is the bank holiday fiasco exploitation?, glorified bullying? or is it just the organisations (ie colleges) not making the rules very clear? The last time I enquired, we are employed and insured by the colleges and Uni's not the trusts, and the shifts are to benefit our learning outcomes not the trust's budget cuts. Whats the gen peeps?
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 00:09:58 (BST)
Whoops the send button is playing up again!!!
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 17:02:22 (BST)
Are the unions taking on board the injustice of exploitation on bank holidays or do we have shut up and get on with it AS USUAL?
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 17:01:24 (BST)
Are the unions taking on board the injustice of exploitation on bank holidays or do we have shut up and get on with it AS USUAL?
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 17:01:14 (BST)
to the webmaster
What are you on about mate?
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 11:32:50 (BST)
To anonymous with soiled undercrackers
Please feel free to contact me directly to discuss the pornographic nature of your offerings which I have removed. Please do not post any further messages of this type.
Nigel <webmaster@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Monday, May 07, 2001 at 09:30:25 (BST)
Placement of Bank & other Public Holidays
What is the consensus with student placement and working on holidays. If one is expected to do placement on weekends & nights, does this mean public holidays are included??? I have concerns with this issue, seeing that: 1) we are supernumery, 2) the colleges/universities are on vacation then why are we expected to be on duty? Are we not students? 3)Regular hospital staff get paid at holiday rates... does the bursary take this factor into consideration?? There are two Bank Holidays in May alone... I think it is cruel to expect us students to participate on placements for these days while for some other hospital staff this may be optional or they get paid additional rates.
Rasta <jimmi_ja@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 07, 2001 at 01:36:22 (BST)
Oh, I see..........
Thanks anyway Sarah, but I don't qualify until March :-) I'm just looking very very very forward to earning some half decent money!!!!!!!!!!!!
ange
- Sunday, May 06, 2001 at 21:07:28 (BST)Mark Sellars was that wonderhusband who was advising us all to take those great paying jobs in the States. Apparently his wife has applied. Or is he a tout for some sort of employment agency. From what friends have said about working there he is incredibly naive, but hey, it was entertaining to read about how he and the kids are going to follow Mum to the land of milk and honey.
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 21:59:10 (BST)
ange, i think sarah was congratulating you for completing the course
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 20:26:54 (BST)
bank holiday saga continued.............
Oh, and in response to Donna I agree that its a complete pain in the nether regions having to work bank holidays. Fortunately, my placement has been good enough to give us the day off as they can identify with the fact that we don't get paid for it. However, my other friends on different wards have not been so lucky. I think its appalling that student nurses are used to fill staff shortages and as a means of avoiding paying out costs on agency staff.
ange
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 14:18:44 (BST)
Sarah
Congratulations?????? I think I have missed something here! Why???????
ange
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 14:14:47 (BST)
Right...
In fact, who is Mark Sellars???
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 11:14:45 (BST)
Where is Mark Sellars
Where is Marks Sellars. Has his dream bubble about America burst????
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 02:54:32 (BST)
Lee
Hi, welcome to the world of student nursing. If you are dedicated then you will never lose the enthusiasm. As for level 0 exams - do the absolute best that you can, but remember that they do not count towards your final diploma. Treat them as a guide and use the results to improve your learning skills. There will most certainly be times in the next few months when you begin to wonder why you have chosen to be a nurse, when you feel that you can take no more and consider giving it all up. My advice is to stick with it at all times but do talk to your personal tutor, other students on your cohort and people on this page - we're all in the same boat and know what it's like. It's bloody hard, but there is a point at the end of it. At the beginning of my course, 3 people who I had become friends with left-(1 deferred), but that just made me even more determined to carry on. I've only been on the course for 7 months and there have been at least 2 occasions when I have wanted to throw in the towel (usually around assignment & exam time whilst on placement)but every time I push myself through it & I come out of the other side stronger and more determined. It's not meant to be easy, (who wants to be treated by a nurse with no back-bone?), just keep thinking of the contribution you can give before and after qualification. You will get differences of opinion of your abilities - on my first placement I was told that I am 'gentle, that's good and the patients like you' on my second 'you're TOO gentle, BUT, the patients seem to like you!' You'll develop your own 'style' of nursing and if you stick by what you believe whilst studying damn hard and accepting constuctive critism, then you will have no trouble getting through the next 3yrs. I've no doubt that my 'style' of nursing will change over the years. Just remember that there is only pass or fail - an 'A' grade acedemic doesn't necessarily make an 'A' grade nurse. GOOD LUCK!
Donna
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 02:00:13 (BST)
Bank Holidays
Thanks Anita! I now know I'm not alone. My eldest daughter is not at school this holiday and my youngest daughter's nursery is closed - as a result of me having to work a late shift, my husband cannot work, which loses us about £70, which is nearly 2/3 of the weekly bursary. This is definately one of the agendas I shall be bringing up at the next student rep meeting!
Donna
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 01:08:53 (BST)
Rcn doings
Brutish readers might like to see what is going on at the "members issues" section of the Rcn website. The Rcn council have allegedly been kept in the dark about a rent subsidy for the new general secretary of £600 a week! You can read more on the story in this weeks edition of the Health Service Journal
Ray Rowden
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 23:53:12 (BST)
R.C.N. Congress
Hello Billy no mates :-) You want to know what to expect from the RCN congress? Well I went to the RCN student congress in Leicester last year and let's just say that I was a little dissapointed. When the time came for the board (including the then secretary Christine Hancock) to answer some of the questions surrounding student hardship, it was as if it was a totally new subject to them. Every single reply started "Well, in my day training was very different........" The RCN is very good about saying how much good they have done for nursing, although they couldn't give me any specifics, and they dodge any questions that relate to issues surrounding hardship of nurses, long hours worked for which nurses are not payed and levels of stress in the workplace resulting in burnout. I am a member of the RCN but only because there is no other alternative that solely represents nurses'. If anybody from the RCN hierachy is reading this why, if the RCN has done so much for nursing is there still a chronic shortage of nurses in the workplace, why are drop out levels during training so high (60 students in 2 and a half years at my university) and finally why are over 90% of students having to get a part time job to have some degree of a life? So explain to me again what the RCN has done for nursing except increase the yearly subscriptions. There was a decent party on the Saturday night though, but then you don't have to go to a congress to have one of those either do you?
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 16:11:09 (BST)
"First timer"
Hello to everyone! I'm a budding male nursing student committed, keen and energetic (how long will it last)! I'm looking to chat with other like-minded people about life, living and learning etc.etc.... Anyone going to the R.C.N congress? Any student life/work nightmares? Any tips on Level 0 exams? Please get in touch!
Lee Mc Donald <LeeMcDonald10@hotmail.com>
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 13:43:03 (BST)
Bank Holidays
Yes Donna I totally agree and have raised this issue at college. I just got a few mumblings in reply unfortunately! The unions should push this one. I already work in a pub at weekends and bank holidays and I wouldn't do that for the measly amount that we get but the real problem is the way we are used on bank holidays, if they have no staff they use us it is as simple as that and it is very wrong. I have better things to do on bank holidays - childcare costs a fortune as it is. I had easter monday off on my placement as I couldn't get a minder for my daughter, if I was a qualified I would be able to afford childcare. Until the bursary covers these expenses then we shouldn't be expected to work them.
Anita
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 13:41:44 (BST)
RCN Congress
I'm off to RCN congress fro teh first time this year what can I expect and is anyone elae going??
Billy no mates
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 12:35:31 (BST)
Bank Holidays
Seeing as everyone else is having a (well deserved) moan, I thought I'd join in! Here goes...I'M BLOODY FED UP THAT I HAVE TO WORK BANK HOLIDAYS!! I know, Iknow... there will be some of you out there who don't see a problem, but seeing as the bursary already pays below min. wage I think it's a tad unfair that we don't get any enhancement for working bank holidays. That being the case, could I have the day off please! Students of other subjects have the day off. Is it just me who feels like this or do I at least have a small point? Thanks for reading.. Now that's off my chest I feel a bit better!
Donna
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 10:22:22 (BST)
ange cont'd
sorry that should read CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! and once again....CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!
sarah
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 00:41:53 (BST)
ange
surely this cant be right, i qualified at the end of jan and had my pin number before the end of 2 weeks. check this out and if its true get on to your union, as you will only be paid an A grade until you get your pin no. by the way CONGRATULAIONS!!!!!!!!!!
sarah
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 00:38:49 (BST)
Whoops!!
That should say - 'hold them in the highest regard' - its getting near my bed time!!!
Heather
- Thursday, May 03, 2001 at 19:53:28 (BST)
Jane's messages - hear hear
I just wanted to add that as a student nurse and a nursing auxiliary, I can sympathise with Jane's observations and can agree with most of them. I am lucky to work with some wonderful HCA's and high them in the highest regard.
Heather
- Thursday, May 03, 2001 at 19:52:38 (BST)
Reply to ange and Jane
Dear Ange The UKCC are a total disgrace. I spent the whole day trying to contact them about my pin number. The phones are ALWAYS engaged. Why should we have to give those creeps our hard earned cash just so they can waste our money on building their ivory towers that connot be contacted. Jane, we all get fed-up from time to time. I think you have showed a lot-of-bottle by saying sorry. I hold HCAs in very high regard, you have every right to moan from time to time.
Emma
- Wednesday, May 02, 2001 at 21:46:36 (BST)
can anyone help?
I have heard that students qualifying in the month of april (or any other time) will not receive their PIN no. until October as this is the only month they are being issued. Obviously this means that we wont receive staff nurse pay until October. Has anyone else heard about this or is my source of information incorrect???(hopefully)!!!!!
ange
- Wednesday, May 02, 2001 at 16:12:53 (BST)
jane, I admire the fact that you put your hands up and admit you have been a bit harsh on us student nurses. That takes alot of guts. Having read alot of our posts you are much more aware of the problems we face as students. We all admire HCA's as they work bloody hard and are the backbone of patient care.
colin
- Tuesday, May 01, 2001 at 22:06:19 (BST)
Thanks Ray!
Thank you Ray for being so understanding.
Jane HCA and proud of it.
- Tuesday, May 01, 2001 at 22:01:30 (BST)
Lets not rip lumps out of each other!
Jane, don't be sorry and carry on being proud. We all do tough jobs in health care. Students, HCA's, qualified staff acrry the NHS every day. What all nurses and HCA's do is to support people through difficult journeys. It can be satisfying and bloody scarey, all in the same breath. the fact that we can get angry, sometimes with each other should not obscure the fact that we all do tough jobs under pressure, sometimes despite the system. Carry on having a healthy debate, but lets try and look after each other.
Ray Rowden <ray@rolf99.freeserve.co.uk>
- Tuesday, May 01, 2001 at 00:37:12 (BST)
I didn't win a bike but if theres any spare that no onw claims send it my way I'm on a get fa sorry fit programme. Hope everyone had a great time I thought the students ball was fab we'll try and top it next year See you all then or perhaps at ANS Conference 1-2 September Aston Uni. Another chance to talk nursing and have a great time. BE THERE
Andy
- Thursday, May 31, 2001 at 13:29:26 (BST)
goodnight
chris <bromilow christine >
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 23:40:13 (BST)
hi is anybody still up
chris <bromilowchristine@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 23:37:03 (BST)
Fabby Congress
I was lucky enough to be at congress and was also lucky enough to win one of the fabby bikes!!! The Brutish guys were amazing and I think the stand must have been the most visited at the whole exhibition. Looking forward to next year guys!!! Well done!!
Debbie <nursie_deb@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 22:04:42 (BST)
Fabby Congress
I was lucky enough to be at congress and was also lucky enough to win one of the fabby bikes!!! The Brutish guys were amazing and I think the stand must have been the most visited at the whole exhibition. Looking forward to next year guys!!! Well done!!
Debbie <nursie_bun@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 22:03:21 (BST)
ANYONE HAVE A GOOD TIME AT RCN CONGRESS ??
Anyone get anything good out of RCN Congress at Harrogate this year ?? Anyone visit the Brutish Nursing stand ?? Tell us what you thought of it all last week !!
- Wednesday, May 30, 2001 at 11:08:30 (BST)
Working nights!!!
Dear Chris, I am very suprised to hear that you are rostered into nights in your first year... I would check your student handbook issued at the beginning of the course about protocols etc... I know different colleges have different ways of doing things, but as far as I can gather they are guided by the ukcc and ENB. At our college we are NOT to work nights in our first year, unless there are exceptional circumstances, ie need to catch up with a mentor etc (For one, student nurses are employed and insured by the colleges and not the hospital trusts)... I would closely check this, and make sure you are not being taken for a ride, seeing as this is your first placement and all..... Ask your tutors or go to your set rep for advice... .
ML
- Tuesday, May 29, 2001 at 22:59:35 (BST)
Lana Interview
hi there is a booklet produced by the RCN on how to prepare your self for an interview. the name of the publication is Directions 2001 and can be obtained from RCN Direct on the telephone number 0845 726 100. if you ask them for that publication they would forward it to you. email me with your postal address and i will have a copy sent to you. this gives you a detailed information on applying for a job and also how to prepare for your interview and writing of your CV. you can also contact nurseline and they will be able to help you. when you contact RCN Direct you can get their number from there.
<eboivo69@aol.com>
- Tuesday, May 29, 2001 at 16:35:15 (BST)
working nights
i have just started my training and on my first placement i am doing 4weeks days including weekends and then ii have to do 3weeks of nights, i believe this is a new thing that you have to do does anybody else have to
chris <bromilowchristine>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 23:47:47 (BST)
anybody there
hello is there anybody there who wants to chat
chris <bromilowchristine>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 23:39:21 (BST)
For 200 quid, sure - where can we form a que???????
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 19:59:00 (BST)
The scurge of my life
I have a management assignment to be in on wednesday. Its ruined my weekend and my bank holiday so if anyone would like to do it for me i will pay them 200 quid lol Big hello to ne one from queens university belfast qualifying very soon
Russ <nurserusty@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 19:04:30 (BST)
scary interviews
hi everyone, i am qualifying in 4 months and it is time for reality to hit and start applying for jobs, is there anyone out there who has been for intreviews and could help me get my act together?????
lana <lanatrotter@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 28, 2001 at 13:16:05 (BST)
hello
hello this is my first time on the chat room. i am a student nurse at edge hill ormskirk.I am trying to start my first assignment, but i dont know where to begin is there anybody from liverpool on line.
brom <bromilowchristine>
- Sunday, May 27, 2001 at 17:30:46 (BST)
IS IT HARD WORK??
i am going to be starting a nursing diploma soon , is it really hard work???? I will be doing at Guildford is anyone from there online??
SUZIE THORPE <SUZIEJUSTIN@AOL.COM>
- Saturday, May 26, 2001 at 21:07:29 (BST)
THORNBURY ROUND OFF SUCCESSFUL CONGRESS 2001
Leading agencies prominent throughout RCN Congress
Both Thornbury Nursing Services and The Scottish Nursing Guild have finished this year's RCN Congress at Harrogate on a high. The twin specialist nursing agencies drew maximum attention throughout the three days allocated to exhibitors this week at the RCN's annual event for the nursing world.
From the moment that doors opened to the nursing public this week, eyes were drawn to the stands being run by Thornbury and Guild staff. A brand new "Smart" car was on display, ready to be drawn as a prize for one lucky nurse, and lap-top computers, free bottles of wine and leisure vouchers were also on offer on both stands. Nurses were drawn too by the outstanding payrates on offer for nurses ready to undertake temporary assignments for either agency.
Among the many visitors to the stand were famous faces in the nursing world. Dr Beverly Malone, the in-coming General Secretary of the RCN came to meet the Thornbury team, and agreed to make the prize draw for the car herself. Christine Hancock, the incumbent RCN General Secretary was present too, and took time to chat to Robert Murgatroyd, the Chief Executive of Thornbury and The Guild and Executive President of FINA (The Federation of Independent Nursing Agencies). The BBC's ten o'clock news team also made a point of visiting the Guild stand on Tuesday to catch some of the excitement on tape.
Thornbury and The Guild were additionally active on the fringes of Congress throughout the three days, and hosted a number of extra events, including focus group discussions on current nursing issues, on-the-spot interviews for nurses wanting to join the two leading agencies, and evening drinks parties for those needing to unwind after the exhaustion of listening to the main debates and the electioneering speeches of visiting politicians such as Claire Short and Dr Liam Fox.
This year the popular student web site "Brutish Nursing" (www.brutish-nursing.com) was introduced in the Congress Exhibitors' Hall, drawing a lot of attention to its stand on student day (Wednesday) in particular. Free drinks were on hand in the Brutish cyber cafe, and a free mountain bike was on offer as a prize to one lucky student on each of the three days. Brutish Nursing concluded their successful Congress debut on Wednesday evening by sponsoring a highly civilised drinks party for students amidst glorious evening sunshine in the gardens of the nearby Cairn hotel. Around 100 students attended the party and behaved impeccably throughout, despite lively discussions on the part students should play in nursing through the next decade.
Robert Murgatroyd, Chief Executive of both Thornbury and The Guild, commented "We have all had a fantastic RCN Congress this year. Record numbers have come to our stands wanting to know how they can join us or thanking us for the support we already give them. Many of our visitors have been able to walk away with prizes (some of them very substantial), and we have been able to promote the vital importance of the nursing agency sector in UK nursing today. We couldn't have asked for more, and I want to thank everyone in my Thornbury, Guild and Brutish teams for their hard work before and during this week. At the end of the day, it is our people, both staff and nurses, that make us a really special agency".
Detailed reports on key events of this week can be viewed on Thornbury's Congress 2001 web pages.
Thornbury, The Guild & Brutish Nursing
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 11:18:10 (BST)
BRUTISH WINNERS FOR THE WEEK
First off, a huge thank-you to everyone who came and visited us at RCN Congress this year. I think it is fair to say everyone had an excellent time - both day and night. All the winners of vouchers from our hourly draws and the Big Brutish Bike Winners will be contacted shortly.
Make sure to check out our chat section on Brutish Nursing over the next week to see who won all the prizes.
Again thanks from all the Thornbury Nursing Services, Scottish Nursing Guild & Brutish Nursing team. See you all next year.
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 11:16:18 (BST)
health promotion
Can anyone help me with links to any good articles on the net? I am tackling this vast subject on health promotion to do with 'health promotion on an acute medical ward' and if it is relavant with such degenerative diseases. Many thanks.
Nat Mills <natwm@blueyonder.co.uk>
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 10:05:35 (BST)
Psych nurses deal with the mind. Doesn't mean they can spell!
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 04:30:54 (BST)
RPN and all that
Dearest Sandy, if you want to do well in your 'RPN' course, I recommend that you learn to spell.
- Friday, May 25, 2001 at 00:26:12 (BST)
need help with essay"future nursing trend in computer technology
hi everyone, i am a colloge student doing a RPN course, but i am stuck and i need some help Is there anyone out there who help me to start the essay thanks!
sandy <audriar@sympatico.ca>
- Thursday, May 24, 2001 at 21:30:06 (BST)
Entering First Year
Hey everyone, I am about 3 1/2 months away from entering my first year of my nursing diploma program at Centennial College in Toronto, Canada. I am extremely nervous and unsettled about starting my course. I was just wondering if this is a normal reaction to such a huge change? Did any of you feel this way when you first started? If so let me know! Jenny baseballchick8@excite.com
Jenny <baseballchick8@excite.com>
- Wednesday, May 23, 2001 at 18:08:52 (BST)
ALL TODAY'S CONGRESS WINNERS
Check out to see if your name is in the list !!
All today's voucher winners !!
C. Lloyd-West
D. Ramd Hayan
Barbara Jarvis
Jane Morton
Lynne Wyre
Mary Holland
Louise Wylie
Abida Shabir
Terry Hill
S.J. Spencer
Phil Harper
Rosemary Cameron
Frances Bulmer
Tina Collins
Sarah Jewell
GRAND PRIZE BIKE WINNER - KATHLEEN HOWARD -Congratulations !
Make sure to check back tomorrow at Student Day @ Congress for more great chances !!
Brutish Webmaster <webmasater@brutish-nursing.com>
- Tuesday, May 22, 2001 at 16:59:54 (BST)
ALL TODAY'S LUCKY BRUTISH WINNERS !!
TODAY'S LUCKY WINNER OF THE BIKE
Debbie McKinnon - Congratulations from Brutish Nursing
Leisure Voucher Winners
Mrs J. E. Downes
Catherine Linney
Peter Cartwright
Linda Williams
Mrs A. Marson
Chris Grange
Elizabeth Dallas
Stephen McSherry
Sam Kiani
Carla Potts
David Harding
L.A. Lockton
Make sure to contact us if your name is mentioned. Plenty more to come tomorrow as well.
Brutish Webmaster <webmasater@brutish-nursing.com>
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 18:50:06 (BST)
re; HCA
I had a bad first placement a patient i had been attending to at the beginning of my shift came up to me and told me that a nurse and a hca had been slagging me off behind a curtain .They said that i was getting above myself because i wanted to attend a talk on wound care! When i approached themm they denied it but several other members of staff had also heard their conversation.I reported it to my tutor who then went on to take it to head of department,the two were cautioned ( nothing to severe).But i had the last say i cornered both of them and told them if they had a problem with me ,they come to me not the rest of the ward! I then went on to give them a lashing of my tongue and told them i was not such a pushover and they would have to be careful in the future because i would have the last word !! So dont let them grind you down remember you are above all the bitching that goes on just say if it continues they will be reported to the RCN for misconduct.
mich
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 18:39:33 (BST)
Brutish @ Congress Kicks Off
Brutish Nursing at RCN Congress, Harrogate has kicked off this morning. Make sure to visit us on stand C143 !!You can win great prizes including a bike each day, vouchers every hour, plus much more. Be Bold...Be Brutish! Give us a try !
Brutish Webmatser <webmaster@brutish-nursing.com>
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 12:43:20 (BST)
Making sense of it all..
Another death on the ward today...but this one was so different to any other I've dealt with. After months of pain and remorse this man died with his family around him... and with a smile on his face. It's probably the most beautiful thing that I've experienced, so far, in my training. I really can't explain it. It makes all of the hard work and the struggles of studentship worthwhile, makes all of our gripes pale into insignificence. I was part of the team that helped him come to terms with his impeding death, not that I'm asking for any praise, just that if that's the way it's going to be, then it is a sure reminder of why we are here. Obviously, if we can rehabilitate patients so that they are well enough to go home, then that is excellent. If the inevitable is death, however, then our job is to make the last few days easier for the patient and the relatives. And this is one of the many moments in a nursing career that makes you stand back and evaluate the reason why we have chosen this as our vacation. Not everybody's cup of tea, but for anybody, like myself, considering a career in palliative care, an experience like this has to be a good enough reason to stick with the training - "to make a difference". I think that I have helped to achieve this. Yes, I'm upset and yes, there are still other patients on the ward who still need my care - life goes on, but this experience has taught me more about nursing than any lecture can ever hope to achieve.
- Monday, May 21, 2001 at 03:44:12 (BST)
Still Counting....!
Hello Again All, Two days and counting. Those of you coming to RCN Congress, in Harrogate, don't forget to come and visit us on Stand C143, Hall C, at the Exhibition Hall. There will be lots going on, so why not drop into our Cyber Cafe, surf the net, and enter our competition. Win some great prizes including Mountain Bikes, and a DVD Player. And don't forget our Big, Bad Brutish Booze Up, on Wednesday Night. Call in before the ANS/RCN Student Ball. There'll be prizes for the best ressed Glam Rocker. So don't forget Stand C143, Hall C. See you there. Phil
Phillip Hufton - Development Manager <phillip.hufton@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Saturday, May 19, 2001 at 09:35:14 (BST)
i must admit i have found that some HCA's have an attitude. I have yet to find a staff nurse with a real chip on their shoulder. I have just done my maternity placement and i overheard 2 HCA's slagging off patients, other staff and student nurses and midwives. They made me feel uncomfortable throughout my 3 weeks there.
rachel
- Saturday, May 19, 2001 at 00:18:19 (BST)
Reply to Michelle
Replying from your message from May 13th regarding HCA's that treat you like dirt. I think sometimes that people that are like that do not like their jobs and just like to take authority and feel like they are in charge when in fact they are jealous of a student nurse. They are either to lazy or do not have enough brains to go back to school and better themselves. Has any one ever come across rude, sarcastic, mean nurses that treat student nurses bad! Try being in clinicals and having nurses (that were once students also) treat you like dirt. It happened last semester. When I graduate next year I'm writing a letter to the head of the hospital where I had the clinicals and explaining the poor professionalism that these nurses have.(They need to find a new profession)And even if that hospital was offering bonuses, better pay, I would still not work in that facility. Just remember Michelle when we become RN's treat students and HCA's with respect because we all have to start somewhere.
Denise
- Friday, May 18, 2001 at 19:00:40 (BST)
just off to start a late shirt in ae dept, feel lousey flued up may even come home early if i act sick enough. any one got any good excuses?
mich
- Friday, May 18, 2001 at 11:59:34 (BST)
COUNT DOWN IS PROGRESSING !!!
Hello All, Countdown to RCN Congress 2001 is moving apace, and all the Brutish Team are working hard to ensure you have a great time. We will be there, with our Cyber Cafe, on Stand C143, Hall C, at the Exhibition Centre. Come along and join the fun, surf the net, make yourself heard, and win some great prizes!! Enter our great raffle and win HMV or Marks and Spencers Vouchers. We are also giving away 3 great mountain bikes, and an amazing portable DVD Player. So be sure to pay us a visit. Why not join us on Wednesday Night, between 6 and 8PM, for the Big, Bad, Brutish Booze Up!! Visit us at Stand C143, to pick up your Free Ticket! Keep watching this space, for more info, more fun, more prizes, and remember, Be Bold, Be Brutish! Look forward to seeing you at Harrogate, Cheers! Phil
Phillip Hufton - Development Manager <phillip.hufton@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 20:28:28 (BST)
COUNT DOWN IS PROGRESSING !!!
Hello All, Countdown to RCN Congress 2001 is moving apace, and all the Brutish Team are working hard to ensure you have a great time. We will be there, with our Cyber Cafe, on Stand C143, Hall C, at the Exhibtion Centre. Come along and join the fun, surf the net, make yourself heard, and win some great prizes!! Enter our great raffle and win HMV or Marks and Spencers Vouchers. We are also giving away 3 great mountain bikes, and an amazing portable DVD Player. So be sure to pay us a visit. Why not join us on Wednesday Night, between 6 and 8PM, for the Big, Bad, Brutish Booze Up!! Visit us at Stand C143, to pick up your Free Ticket! Keep watching this space, for more info, more fun, more prizes, and remember, Be Bold, Be Brutish! Look forward to seeing you at Harrogate Cheers Phil
Phillip Hufton - Development Manager <phillip.hufton@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 20:25:47 (BST)
Nursing Home Placement
I have just started my 4 week nursing home placement, what a waste of time. A week would have been long enough.My "assessor" (for want of a better word) was telling all the care assistants that I wasn't supernumary!!! I soon put her straight! So far I haven't been taught anything new, but am getting lots and lots of practice with washing and dressing patients!!!!
Angela <stephen@sbidgood.fsnet.co.uk>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 11:11:09 (BST)
whats all this HCA tosh
dont u hate call bells...who's the wise a** who invented them?....anyway.got to go update some care plans.ta ta ......who am I kidding..its time for a smoke
stu again....
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 05:24:59 (BST)
nights are a dragggggggg
anyone else got net access on the niteshift......I'm usually bored but tonites a diff. kettle o' fish.....Anyone train at Raigmore hosp in the last ten years??......Fluke Inn Rools Im sooooooo tired ..wake up people..the early shift beckons...have a nice day!
stu
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 05:19:58 (BST)
Can you / would you be able to help me find a job?
I am very interested in being a nurse and I was wondering if you knew anyone with a job avalable for like a nurses assitant or was looking for help in like a hospital or nursing home . I am 14yr's old my birth day is july 3,1986 and I live on the east side of cleveland ,ohio you already have my email address so I ask that you please let me know something if you find some infomation. thank you!
Sherrie Vaughn <caroberts19@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 00:39:47 (BST)
anyone there
ay up is there anyone there or are you all watching footie ,i need stimulating conversation been doing my assignment on nursing interventions, so come on down i've only just found this web site sooo whats it like?
pud
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 22:04:58 (BST)
god ur a bit heavy going into it a bit 2 deep it's just a figure of speech, hate to think wot u do 4 a laugh!!!
michelle
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:28:59 (BST)
sorry
sorry about the spelling especially there jobs it should be their jobs . In the middle of doing my assignment.
michelle
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:20:48 (BST)
Matt Its a well known phrase to new students -'the first year flies by, the second year drags by and the third year is over before you know it'. As a first year I don't know how true this is except to say that people always seem to say time passed by quickly - but in only in retrospect
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:12:06 (BST)
to matt
hi matt i'm now approaching 21mnth into my training god it flys i'm surprised i made it this far! at the moment coming to the end of my a-e dept placement if theres one placement i feel useless it's here. everyone knows there jobs and i think students are just there to porter to x-ray or transfer to wards.can't say i will pick it for my elective so much in not being rostered we are counted in the numbers in most placements but hey wot the heck i'll be qualified soon.
michelle
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 21:03:57 (BST)
Alright for some!
I wish I was off to Gran Canaria! Still, Sheffield might be sunny on the weekend. In my dreams.
Matt
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 20:54:35 (BST)
Matt
Just about to enter my second year, I can imagine it will drag, that in-between stage!! Not looking forward to it now I know what hard work it all is!! Anyway I'm off to Gran Canaria on Saturday to get drunk and forget about nursing til we get back!! Bye Anita
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 20:50:32 (BST)
Second year itch
Has anyone else found that the second year is a real drag and feels like it's lasting about ten years?
Matt
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 08:38:08 (BST)
Denise--re; one more year
Dear Denise....congratulations on getting this far, it's a haul all right. But take it from me and quite a few others...the work gets harder when you qualify!!Enjoy your student years 'cos those are a breeze compared to whats ahead..Good luck..ps it's worth it 'tho
Stuart <stumacd69@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 16, 2001 at 04:39:32 (BST)
Lucy
You should try taking your own advice Lucy.
Michelle
- Tuesday, May 15, 2001 at 17:59:04 (BST)
It is attitudes like yours Lucy that means we will always be exploited!!!!
- Monday, May 14, 2001 at 22:07:05 (BST)
Reply to Michelle
Stop moaning about others and get on with it. Look in a mirror if you want to find fault.
Lucy
- Monday, May 14, 2001 at 21:39:46 (BST)
HCAs
I am on a medical placement just now and whilst the majority of the HCA's on this ward are wonderful there are three who are just lazy cows and push their work load onto any student who happens to be walking past them! (You get at least one HCA like this on every ward!) Anyway, I have been in charge of 12 patients for the last few days, and when my assessor told the HCAs I was in charge of them their chins nearly hit the floor in disappointment! Needless to say they didn't bother trying to get me to do their jobs for them, but I did notice how they sought out other students (first year students) and dictated to them! These particular HCA's are condescending know it alls with no NVQ qualifications, that seem to resent student nurses being on their wards and I wish that people like this would sod off or realise that the title Student Nurse is not the same as Health Care Assistant!!! Sometimes I wonder if they resent fact that students are going to be qualified one day whilst they are still HCA's with very little or no ambition whatsoever! I am also appalled at how these particular HCA's treat patients, raising their voices and telling patients to shut up (yes I have complained to the Qualified staff about it) - all I can say is they are in the wrong bloody job altogether and I cannot fathom out why they stay in it, although may be it is because they have student nurses there to do their jobs for them whilst they slope off for a gossip or a fag. And yes us Student Nurses do work as hard as HCA's and we don't mind, but sometimes it does seem that we work non-stop whilst their work seems to be more leisurely! Some HCAs just take student nurses for granted, and its time this stopped! I don't know about anyone else, but if there has ever been a quiet period during a shift I tend to grab a medical book and read up on stuff, but God help you if a HCA sees you sitting at the nurses station reading! They bend over backwards to find you something to do, its as if it hurts them to see you sitting there trying to study! I wonder if they realise that after every shift we have a degree of studying to do, portfolios to write up e.t.c. e.t.c.!!! May be we should change our names to Super Student! Okay - rant over. Off to work now.
Michelle <mishl180_36@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, May 13, 2001 at 09:59:08 (BST)
BJN AWARDS PHOTOGRAPHS
Please go to Thornbury and Brutish at the BJN to see what went on.
Nigel <webmaster@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Sunday, May 13, 2001 at 02:29:50 (BST)
SPLIT DECISION AT THE BJN CLINCAL PRACTICE AWARDS 2001
Yesterday Thornbury Nursing Services, Brutish Nursing and UK Nursing Web Sites Ltd sponsored two categories in the BJN Clinical Practice Awards 2001. Robert Murgatroyd, CEO of Thornbury Nursing Services, presented the award in the Critical Care category to Catherine Ganner. Runners-up position was awarded to a group submission from Sue Harden, Britt Lindstrom and Per Bengtsson. David Toner's Nomination was awarded a highly commended. The judges in the Student Nurse of the Year category found the task of agreeing on an overall winner impossible due to the inseparably high standard of all three nominations. This resulted in a decision to split the award between the three nominees who shared the prize. Phillip Hufton, Communications Manager for Thornbury Nursing Services, presented Alison Coats, Shayra Hassan and Helen Jones with their awards. Robert Murgatroyd commented, "Thornbury Nursing Services, Brutish Nursing and UK Nursing Web Sites Ltd are very pleased to support the BJN Clinical Practice Awards. We recognise the importance of encouraging innovation and research-based clinical practice."
Nigel <webmaster@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Saturday, May 12, 2001 at 21:17:57 (BST)
Childcare
I really do sympathise with all of you who are trying to find suitable childcare. I started last October and didn't manage to find anything until the start of September. I was lucky enough to find a nursery which is run by a nurse who appreciates the awkward shift patterns and so allows us to book our places on a week-to-week basis, whereby we only pay for sessions used. My oldest daughter, (who is nearly 10yrs), goes to before and after school club, but by the time I enter my 3rd year she will start senior school (aged 11) where there is no such provision. Given the number of students with children, you would think that some provision was made by the schools of nursing/the bursary dept. Ooh, sorry! I've just woken up and realised how stupid I'm being!
Donna
- Saturday, May 12, 2001 at 01:22:19 (BST)
To ML:
Thanks for your reply to my message. I have a small confession to make though: I am the rep for our group - but haven't attented all meetings because even though we are excused from tutorials, I didn't want to miss lessons. Any burning issues we have had so far we have managed to sort out as a group (there are only 18 people in our half of the cohort). However, because we are the first cohort of the 'new' RnDiphe, I will be attending a course evaluation meeting (on the 21st May) with the course co-ordinator of the university and intend to raise this issue. As for bar work - in my experience you at least get paid extra for bank holidays! Good Luck.. and mine's a pint of bitter please!
Donna
- Saturday, May 12, 2001 at 00:08:14 (BST)
Childcare
Have had difficulty with childcare. Not enough spaces and when I was fortunate to find a nursery but cost is high! Had to wait approximately one year for place.
carroll
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 23:27:32 (BST)
Commission to Enquire into Child Abuse Eire - Industrial Schools
Dear All Book "States of Fear" Author: Mary Rafetry Documentary shown on RTE approximately 1999.
Carroll
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 23:25:29 (BST)
ONE MORE YEAR
I am almost done with my nursing program. I cannot believe I have made it this far! It will be nice to have a "real job" and not have to pick up a book again to study!!
Denise Moore <DMoore@Columbus.RR.Com>
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 22:56:50 (BST)
Childcare
Calling all student nurses and midwives who find childcare a major finacial issue - particularly those living in the Newham area of London - I have an appointment with my local MP next week and it would strengthen the case considerably if other student nurses/midwives living in the area could also speak out - email me at hadassah@euphony.net
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 22:44:01 (BST)
Eyes wide shut
And after school orchestras and sports clubs and free transport and great teacher to pupil ratios. I am sure while you wait for the green card the hospitals will do as they seem to do everywhere and take the mickey. However as an independant worker with resident alien status I find it hard to believe that in the most capitalist of societies, supply and demand does not equate to better conditions. I lived outside of Baltimore and while I was there, it was the 'chalk outline capital' of the US. The city averaged more than 280 murders per anum and if the net was cast wider into some of the associated deprived out of town areas, that figure would have rocketed. Crime is a problem, no doubting but in all the time I was there I never saw anything. Not even the sort of violence we see at the end of any night in any pub in the UK. The sort that we accept, 'bit of a slap' or someone getting bottled. I think the tragedy of the crime statistics in the States is that it relates to specific geographic areas literally. And as for the nights and unsocial bit, being a newbie here is hardly condusive. One of the girls I knew picked up some part of the first 14 weekends she worked as a qualified nurse and more than her share of the night rota. It was justified, as the staff 'planning' this thought she might need the extra cash. So much love in just the one place, makes me tearful...
Roger <roger@obermaier.freeserve.co.uk>
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 09:05:39 (BST)
Not the best of Britain Brigade-- Just know before you go
I wasn't knocking Mark. Just he seems to believe life will be wonderful. He doesn't seem to understand that you have to write a registration exam in EVERY state you work in. Move from Washington to Oregon and you have to write it again. The level of difficulty varies from extremely easy to do they think an MD??? Also, the employer doesn't pick up the tab, nurses do. As for unions, well wife will be at the low end of the pole. Unending nights can kill family life. But thats the same the world over. What he should have the wife ask is how well are foreign nurses regarded by their coworkers, why is there such a shortage in that State and trust me lack of students can't be held responsible for everything. Assaults on nurses are extremely high in some areas. I'm not saying don't go, just go with your eyes wide open. Oh, yeah what about quality of schools for those kids, how metal detectors do you have in your local school??? And I'm not talking inner city schools, just quiet suburbia
- Friday, May 11, 2001 at 01:15:39 (BST)
The answer to nursing shortage
I hear all the hype how the nursing shortage crisis is because of lack of staffing, long hours etc. I got the real answer; We just need to demand more pay! Raise the salary and the rest will happen naturaly. So instead of having a million voices screaming a million different things getting us nowhere fast, we should all stand together and say it simple, "Pay us More!" That should be our rallying cry
Franko <know>
- Thursday, May 10, 2001 at 17:33:59 (BST)
Good to see the 'Britain is Best Brigade' are back!
Good luck to Mr Sellars and his family, strange how we regard those that emmigrate as something akin to traitors; yet regard those that migrate here as life's great adventurers? America is really a rather large place, (no really) and for those that have not been, quite varied in its nature. Not all of it resembles the back lot at 20th Century Fox, nor is it the middle of nowhere. A lot of it is, well in between. Middle America is largely wonderful, honest people with decent values and the apple pie is fresh and the welcome warm. I spent two happy years working VERY hard (as is the American way) but getting paid LOTS of money. It was not nursing or care work before you type. I am sure Mark will have to work for his dead presidents but equally he will live in a society where almost everything you need is cheaper. Additionally, almost everything you yearn for is also cheaper. What the Americans hold dear are the sort of Protestant work ethic their forefathers espoused and in return they are happy to reward people. It is not the sort of place where you could work for thirty years for someone and retire without even a bunch of flowers or a visit from the boss. They also have unions that are prepared to fight for the rights of their members in return for their levy. I should imagine they are explaining to the new girl at RCN HQ that solidarity, mutual respect and support are about as alien here as a decent wage. So, let us not pretend that all is great and good here at the heart of the empire.......
roger <roger@obermaier.freeserve.co.uk>
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 23:35:28 (BST)
other jobs!
I've done loads of bar work too, used to love it for a cheap sober night out, which brings me to the subject of student jobs other than.... nursing.... I have spoken to a few colleagues who have kept their p/t jobs in pubs, restaurants, stores etc, and they say the same, it is a sane saver... I was thinking of getting anohter job, as yes I am really broke now, & fed up of baked beans on toast every night, (and the beans keep getting stuck in the toaster)... I usually work for a nursing agency as hca, as I get to choose when I work, but I think I may need something different for a while to help de-stress... Is there anyone out there that has a view on jobs other than caring as a saviour, and what does everyone do, and how do you fit it all in???
ml <dlcct@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 23:23:04 (BST)
Oh and I'm Anita and thanks mate
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 22:24:17 (BST)
Incidentally, bar work is ACE fun, I've done it for 15 years and it keeps me sane now I'm doing my training - it is an escape
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 22:22:52 (BST)
ML
£1.90 for the bacardi and coke, 35p for crisps and 85p for the coke - OK, I'm skint!!!
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 22:22:07 (BST)
PPS
So were we, told about 3 years of supernumary, but I think we have to do some rostered in Yr 3, you know to get used to how it is when we qualify... makes sense really, but up til then we do have rights... the right to learn in a safe and student friendly environment.... (!!!???***!!!)
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:46:42 (BST)
To the pub worker, mines a bacardi and coke (large), ice and a slice and a cherry thanks, and a coke and a packets of crisps for my kids..... glad to hear you are coping so far, good luck in the future.
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:43:36 (BST)
ps
We were told when we started training last june that we will never be rostered, as it had been stopped. I will make sure I keep them to their word.
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:38:56 (BST)
Go to the course leaders,
FAO: DONNA, & any one else interested..... Yes the best place to start is with your individual course leaders or college deans. Most co-horts have set reps who have regular meetings to discuss these important issues... and this is one of them... I have checked with my institution and it is unethical for wards to use supernumary students as rostered staff.. basically it is not on!! However, as we all know, to blow the whistle goes a long way to making one's life a misery on placement, so the best way is to approach your set rep to bring concerns to course committee meetings, these minutes are usually passed onto deans etc, and there should be a reply. This can be done anonymously, as the set rep can use the 'on behalf of concerned students' get out clause. Some trusts are also now employing trust facilitators to deal with probs like these.... use them, they will not know what is going on until it is highlighted, and again you have the right to be anonymous. You may have the 'you have to work with your mentor' clause thrown at you, but check the off duty and see if you are being counted as rostered or not. The students on our ward became aware of students being used to make up numbers, and refused point blank to be a part of it... the managers know this is not allowed, and if refused with the right attitude there can be no comebacks, especially when done in a group, then no-one is singled out for discrimination or awkwardness.... it has worked for us so far. But yes go to the college for a start, don't moan and bitch behind closed doors... A) it doesn't acheive anything and brings down morale, and B)nothing gets done that way... you can but try... in the right way, and if all else fails go to your union steward.... Hope this helps.... From Year 1 student, somewhere down south, ..ML.
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:38:29 (BST)
ML
Ere Ere!! I work in a pub at weekends so I will be making sure I explain that I cannot do placement then. I have my bills to pay and my children to feed and I can't see a problem as long as we complete the required hours. Luckily all 3 placements that I have had have not expected me to work weekends, but I am expecting a bit of tutting sooner or later.
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 21:37:20 (BST)
ford sierra
Does anyone know of a good site for looking at pictures of Ford Sierras and Michael Jackson???
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 08:35:59 (BST)
Bank Holidays Revisited
Wow! So I am not alone afterall. A rep from the RCN told me that they have been trying for years to put a stop to students working BH's - obviously with no success - and that students have long been used for making up the numbers so that other staff can have the days off. There must be a way that we can put an end to this, it's bad enough that we are counted in the staffing numbers on normal days. As the universities are responsible for our working conditions, maybe we should start there with the student councils. We are being taken for granted and treated unfairly and I don't see why we should be used as a prop for a failing health service. Any ideas?
Donna
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 01:56:47 (BST)
ULTIMATUMS!
Has anyone been given an ultimatum regarding not wanting to work a bank holiday shift?? If you are on rostered placement then fair do's, (even though it is far from fair), but if u are supernumary then u may have every right to be unavailable for placement. Sometimes if u need to work with a mentor,have time to make up or have an objective to achieve then you may have no choice..... and more often than not (from experience) trying the assertiveness technique and politely asking not to be placed on shift for that date because of whatever reason etc etc, can get a better result than you might expect. Of course this is not an ideal world and we don't always get things as we want them sometimes, but surely (!!????!!) a super numary student cannot be penalised, verbally slated, given poor assessments or given an ultimatum for asking not to work on less than minimum wage for several days a year (ie the non-euro conformed bak holidays)... It would be interesting to know if anyone has be co-erced, forced, threatened or intimidated into not being able to be assertive enough to ask for this small privilage whilst on the supernumary. We all know towards the end we will be rostered and may not have much choice, and know even more that when qualified there may be even less choice, but there is a little more reward (ie ££'s) when qualified. SO... is the bank holiday fiasco exploitation?, glorified bullying? or is it just the organisations (ie colleges) not making the rules very clear? The last time I enquired, we are employed and insured by the colleges and Uni's not the trusts, and the shifts are to benefit our learning outcomes not the trust's budget cuts. Whats the gen peeps?
ML
- Wednesday, May 09, 2001 at 00:09:58 (BST)
Whoops the send button is playing up again!!!
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 17:02:22 (BST)
Are the unions taking on board the injustice of exploitation on bank holidays or do we have shut up and get on with it AS USUAL?
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 17:01:24 (BST)
Are the unions taking on board the injustice of exploitation on bank holidays or do we have shut up and get on with it AS USUAL?
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 17:01:14 (BST)
to the webmaster
What are you on about mate?
- Tuesday, May 08, 2001 at 11:32:50 (BST)
To anonymous with soiled undercrackers
Please feel free to contact me directly to discuss the pornographic nature of your offerings which I have removed. Please do not post any further messages of this type.
Nigel <webmaster@thornbury-nursing-services.co.uk>
- Monday, May 07, 2001 at 09:30:25 (BST)
Placement of Bank & other Public Holidays
What is the consensus with student placement and working on holidays. If one is expected to do placement on weekends & nights, does this mean public holidays are included??? I have concerns with this issue, seeing that: 1) we are supernumery, 2) the colleges/universities are on vacation then why are we expected to be on duty? Are we not students? 3)Regular hospital staff get paid at holiday rates... does the bursary take this factor into consideration?? There are two Bank Holidays in May alone... I think it is cruel to expect us students to participate on placements for these days while for some other hospital staff this may be optional or they get paid additional rates.
Rasta <jimmi_ja@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 07, 2001 at 01:36:22 (BST)
Oh, I see..........
Thanks anyway Sarah, but I don't qualify until March :-) I'm just looking very very very forward to earning some half decent money!!!!!!!!!!!!
ange
- Sunday, May 06, 2001 at 21:07:28 (BST)Mark Sellars was that wonderhusband who was advising us all to take those great paying jobs in the States. Apparently his wife has applied. Or is he a tout for some sort of employment agency. From what friends have said about working there he is incredibly naive, but hey, it was entertaining to read about how he and the kids are going to follow Mum to the land of milk and honey.
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 21:59:10 (BST)
ange, i think sarah was congratulating you for completing the course
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 20:26:54 (BST)
bank holiday saga continued.............
Oh, and in response to Donna I agree that its a complete pain in the nether regions having to work bank holidays. Fortunately, my placement has been good enough to give us the day off as they can identify with the fact that we don't get paid for it. However, my other friends on different wards have not been so lucky. I think its appalling that student nurses are used to fill staff shortages and as a means of avoiding paying out costs on agency staff.
ange
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 14:18:44 (BST)
Sarah
Congratulations?????? I think I have missed something here! Why???????
ange
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 14:14:47 (BST)
Right...
In fact, who is Mark Sellars???
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 11:14:45 (BST)
Where is Mark Sellars
Where is Marks Sellars. Has his dream bubble about America burst????
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 02:54:32 (BST)
Lee
Hi, welcome to the world of student nursing. If you are dedicated then you will never lose the enthusiasm. As for level 0 exams - do the absolute best that you can, but remember that they do not count towards your final diploma. Treat them as a guide and use the results to improve your learning skills. There will most certainly be times in the next few months when you begin to wonder why you have chosen to be a nurse, when you feel that you can take no more and consider giving it all up. My advice is to stick with it at all times but do talk to your personal tutor, other students on your cohort and people on this page - we're all in the same boat and know what it's like. It's bloody hard, but there is a point at the end of it. At the beginning of my course, 3 people who I had become friends with left-(1 deferred), but that just made me even more determined to carry on. I've only been on the course for 7 months and there have been at least 2 occasions when I have wanted to throw in the towel (usually around assignment & exam time whilst on placement)but every time I push myself through it & I come out of the other side stronger and more determined. It's not meant to be easy, (who wants to be treated by a nurse with no back-bone?), just keep thinking of the contribution you can give before and after qualification. You will get differences of opinion of your abilities - on my first placement I was told that I am 'gentle, that's good and the patients like you' on my second 'you're TOO gentle, BUT, the patients seem to like you!' You'll develop your own 'style' of nursing and if you stick by what you believe whilst studying damn hard and accepting constuctive critism, then you will have no trouble getting through the next 3yrs. I've no doubt that my 'style' of nursing will change over the years. Just remember that there is only pass or fail - an 'A' grade acedemic doesn't necessarily make an 'A' grade nurse. GOOD LUCK!
Donna
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 02:00:13 (BST)
Bank Holidays
Thanks Anita! I now know I'm not alone. My eldest daughter is not at school this holiday and my youngest daughter's nursery is closed - as a result of me having to work a late shift, my husband cannot work, which loses us about £70, which is nearly 2/3 of the weekly bursary. This is definately one of the agendas I shall be bringing up at the next student rep meeting!
Donna
- Saturday, May 05, 2001 at 01:08:53 (BST)
Rcn doings
Brutish readers might like to see what is going on at the "members issues" section of the Rcn website. The Rcn council have allegedly been kept in the dark about a rent subsidy for the new general secretary of £600 a week! You can read more on the story in this weeks edition of the Health Service Journal
Ray Rowden
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 23:53:12 (BST)
R.C.N. Congress
Hello Billy no mates :-) You want to know what to expect from the RCN congress? Well I went to the RCN student congress in Leicester last year and let's just say that I was a little dissapointed. When the time came for the board (including the then secretary Christine Hancock) to answer some of the questions surrounding student hardship, it was as if it was a totally new subject to them. Every single reply started "Well, in my day training was very different........" The RCN is very good about saying how much good they have done for nursing, although they couldn't give me any specifics, and they dodge any questions that relate to issues surrounding hardship of nurses, long hours worked for which nurses are not payed and levels of stress in the workplace resulting in burnout. I am a member of the RCN but only because there is no other alternative that solely represents nurses'. If anybody from the RCN hierachy is reading this why, if the RCN has done so much for nursing is there still a chronic shortage of nurses in the workplace, why are drop out levels during training so high (60 students in 2 and a half years at my university) and finally why are over 90% of students having to get a part time job to have some degree of a life? So explain to me again what the RCN has done for nursing except increase the yearly subscriptions. There was a decent party on the Saturday night though, but then you don't have to go to a congress to have one of those either do you?
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 16:11:09 (BST)
"First timer"
Hello to everyone! I'm a budding male nursing student committed, keen and energetic (how long will it last)! I'm looking to chat with other like-minded people about life, living and learning etc.etc.... Anyone going to the R.C.N congress? Any student life/work nightmares? Any tips on Level 0 exams? Please get in touch!
Lee Mc Donald <LeeMcDonald10@hotmail.com>
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 13:43:03 (BST)
Bank Holidays
Yes Donna I totally agree and have raised this issue at college. I just got a few mumblings in reply unfortunately! The unions should push this one. I already work in a pub at weekends and bank holidays and I wouldn't do that for the measly amount that we get but the real problem is the way we are used on bank holidays, if they have no staff they use us it is as simple as that and it is very wrong. I have better things to do on bank holidays - childcare costs a fortune as it is. I had easter monday off on my placement as I couldn't get a minder for my daughter, if I was a qualified I would be able to afford childcare. Until the bursary covers these expenses then we shouldn't be expected to work them.
Anita
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 13:41:44 (BST)
RCN Congress
I'm off to RCN congress fro teh first time this year what can I expect and is anyone elae going??
Billy no mates
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 12:35:31 (BST)
Bank Holidays
Seeing as everyone else is having a (well deserved) moan, I thought I'd join in! Here goes...I'M BLOODY FED UP THAT I HAVE TO WORK BANK HOLIDAYS!! I know, Iknow... there will be some of you out there who don't see a problem, but seeing as the bursary already pays below min. wage I think it's a tad unfair that we don't get any enhancement for working bank holidays. That being the case, could I have the day off please! Students of other subjects have the day off. Is it just me who feels like this or do I at least have a small point? Thanks for reading.. Now that's off my chest I feel a bit better!
Donna
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 10:22:22 (BST)
ange cont'd
sorry that should read CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! and once again....CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!
sarah
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 00:41:53 (BST)
ange
surely this cant be right, i qualified at the end of jan and had my pin number before the end of 2 weeks. check this out and if its true get on to your union, as you will only be paid an A grade until you get your pin no. by the way CONGRATULAIONS!!!!!!!!!!
sarah
- Friday, May 04, 2001 at 00:38:49 (BST)
Whoops!!
That should say - 'hold them in the highest regard' - its getting near my bed time!!!
Heather
- Thursday, May 03, 2001 at 19:53:28 (BST)
Jane's messages - hear hear
I just wanted to add that as a student nurse and a nursing auxiliary, I can sympathise with Jane's observations and can agree with most of them. I am lucky to work with some wonderful HCA's and high them in the highest regard.
Heather
- Thursday, May 03, 2001 at 19:52:38 (BST)
Reply to ange and Jane
Dear Ange The UKCC are a total disgrace. I spent the whole day trying to contact them about my pin number. The phones are ALWAYS engaged. Why should we have to give those creeps our hard earned cash just so they can waste our money on building their ivory towers that connot be contacted. Jane, we all get fed-up from time to time. I think you have showed a lot-of-bottle by saying sorry. I hold HCAs in very high regard, you have every right to moan from time to time.
Emma
- Wednesday, May 02, 2001 at 21:46:36 (BST)
can anyone help?
I have heard that students qualifying in the month of april (or any other time) will not receive their PIN no. until October as this is the only month they are being issued. Obviously this means that we wont receive staff nurse pay until October. Has anyone else heard about this or is my source of information incorrect???(hopefully)!!!!!
ange
- Wednesday, May 02, 2001 at 16:12:53 (BST)
jane, I admire the fact that you put your hands up and admit you have been a bit harsh on us student nurses. That takes alot of guts. Having read alot of our posts you are much more aware of the problems we face as students. We all admire HCA's as they work bloody hard and are the backbone of patient care.
colin
- Tuesday, May 01, 2001 at 22:06:19 (BST)
Thanks Ray!
Thank you Ray for being so understanding.
Jane HCA and proud of it.
- Tuesday, May 01, 2001 at 22:01:30 (BST)
Lets not rip lumps out of each other!
Jane, don't be sorry and carry on being proud. We all do tough jobs in health care. Students, HCA's, qualified staff acrry the NHS every day. What all nurses and HCA's do is to support people through difficult journeys. It can be satisfying and bloody scarey, all in the same breath. the fact that we can get angry, sometimes with each other should not obscure the fact that we all do tough jobs under pressure, sometimes despite the system. Carry on having a healthy debate, but lets try and look after each other.
Ray Rowden <ray@rolf99.freeserve.co.uk>
- Tuesday, May 01, 2001 at 00:37:12 (BST)