• Uniforms Harbor Bacteria

    I work in an office setting now reviewing charts, but I am still acutely aware of the germs and bacteria the paper can harbor. I’m not a germaphobe by any means, but I wash my hands frequently. Years ago, when I worked in the field in home health, we didn’t wear uniforms and scrubs were not allowed. But the clothing I wore became my uniform as I designated specific pieces and shoes for work use only. Some days I couldn’t wait to get home and shower, and then wash my clothes in the hottest water!!!! I read something the other day about nurses coming home and picking up their babies…

  • Degrees and Certifications for Aspiring Nurses

    A guest post from Elaine Hircsch Nursing is a field usually without a shortage of jobs. Nurses comprise the nation’s largest group of healthcare professionals, and while a lagging economy might cause some healthcare organizations to tighten up on hiring and shift nurses to different departments to fill in during these periods, there are generally still nursing positions available. Nursing is also a field that pays relatively well. Even in areas where financial resources are limited, recent graduates will find jobs earning at least $40,000 per year. There are several avenues to earn a degree or certification in nursing, both for persons desiring to enter the field for the first…

  • Some People Should NOT be Nurses!!!

    I haven’t been here in awhile and I’m sorry. My family has been dealing with the dying process of a dear sweet soul. Before I begin, regarding HIPAA considerations, I have the necessary permissions to divulge information. The better part of the last 3-4 months have been consumed with dealing with the ramifications of the very poor nursing care an older relative has received in a hospital here in southern California. Afterwards I wasn’t really surprised to find that particular hospital’s CMS satisfaction score to be 79%. In fact I have to say that may be too high a score. Maybe I’m too much a part of the old guard,…

  • RIP Steve Jobs

    “Your time is limited so don’t waste it living someone else’s life…” Steve Jobs inspired many to become great just by doing their own thing and not being afraid to be who they are.   Being a nurse is similar…. be the nurse you would want taking care of you if you couldn’t care for yourself.