Yes....it is official! I am the happiest girl in the world! Last Friday, after a unbelievably crazy week, I officially became Rose, BSN, RN! My first day of work as a Registered Nurse was this past Monday night. I, however, practiced writing my new name all weekend long simply because I am so excited to finally be a real nurse! For example, I went out for celebratory drinks on Friday evening, and I paid with plastic, just so that I could sign my name Rose, RN. I am not kidding, either. Yes, I did get a few odd looks, but who cares?!
In all seriousness, signing my name for the first time at work with my new RN title gave me goosebumps. All of the years spent on undergraduate course work, clinical work, gaining experience as a nursing assistant...it still seems surreal to me that I really did it. I've looked up my name on the department of regulation and licensing website several times in attempt to help my brain process that I am a real nurse now.
Love you all,
Rose, BSN, RN
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Happy Holidays
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones...as I have been spending time with mine.
I am excited to finally share with you an update from my heart. Last weekend I celebrated another milestone...one of incredible importance. I finished my second undergraduate degree; earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (with honors) and in traditional ceremony, was pinned as a BSN in a separate celebration after the major University graduation. I am not sure that I have really comprehended the reality of graduation. A career. A new chapter in my life. Closing of books, and opening of doors.
A career in nursing means that the possibilities are endless in the paths from which to choose from. I am so fortunate to have officially accepted a position as a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse. Building upon the knowledge I have learned as a Nurse Intern, I embark on a career path that is both challenging and rewarding. I am prepared for many exciting days, but understand the possibility of difficult and heartbreaking experiences as well.
I have one major hurdle to clear before I can officially start. I have to take and pass the state board exam before my transfer date, which will add the RN after my name (can't wait to sign that for the first time!!!). I'm getting more and more anxious as the prospective date nears. I haven't been able to sign up for the exact date yet, but all of my paperwork has been processed. I am waiting for the last piece of the puzzle-the statement of graduation, sent from the university to be received by the state department. Here's crossing my fingers that it arrives without delay; I am hoping to schedule a date for the exam by the end of January...and afterward, I promise an update again!
For now, happy holidays...if I haven't already seen you this year to wish you a prosperous 2011 in person, I am wishing you (via internet) another year of friendship, love and happiness. Cheers to the New Year!
I am excited to finally share with you an update from my heart. Last weekend I celebrated another milestone...one of incredible importance. I finished my second undergraduate degree; earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (with honors) and in traditional ceremony, was pinned as a BSN in a separate celebration after the major University graduation. I am not sure that I have really comprehended the reality of graduation. A career. A new chapter in my life. Closing of books, and opening of doors.
A career in nursing means that the possibilities are endless in the paths from which to choose from. I am so fortunate to have officially accepted a position as a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse. Building upon the knowledge I have learned as a Nurse Intern, I embark on a career path that is both challenging and rewarding. I am prepared for many exciting days, but understand the possibility of difficult and heartbreaking experiences as well.
I have one major hurdle to clear before I can officially start. I have to take and pass the state board exam before my transfer date, which will add the RN after my name (can't wait to sign that for the first time!!!). I'm getting more and more anxious as the prospective date nears. I haven't been able to sign up for the exact date yet, but all of my paperwork has been processed. I am waiting for the last piece of the puzzle-the statement of graduation, sent from the university to be received by the state department. Here's crossing my fingers that it arrives without delay; I am hoping to schedule a date for the exam by the end of January...and afterward, I promise an update again!
For now, happy holidays...if I haven't already seen you this year to wish you a prosperous 2011 in person, I am wishing you (via internet) another year of friendship, love and happiness. Cheers to the New Year!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
On Cruise Control
Today was my last final exam of my second (and last) undergraduate degree. Looking back, I remember the very first day I entered the nursing program...unsure of what to expect, where I would be in 2.5 years, and excited for the opportunities that were waiting for me. Now, I can say that yes, the time did fly by...even when it seemed like it was dragging on endlessly. The hours studying for exams, writing papers, nursing care plans, preparing presentations and focusing my clinical skills paid off-big time. As I prepare for my last clinical rotation (in a Pediatric Critical Care Float Unit), I am reflecting on all of the people who have been with me, in thoughts, spirit or in person-offering wisdom and guidance every step of the way.
First, I need to thank my incredible family. Without you, I would not have been able to dodge the many obstacles that I have navigated. I also need to thank my dear friends who have been incredibly patient with me-missing get-togethers because I was working, studying or in class...the delays in my email replies and the few vacations I've been able to take to come and visit you-near and far. To my amazing coworkers...who challenge me to do better and study harder...and who have supported me through an incredible career journey. You continue to inspire me with your professional accomplishments.
So, there are 38 days separating me from walking across the stage in my cap and gown...and then getting pinned in the nursing specific recognition ceremony. 38 days, 126 clinical hours, 3 major assignments, 2 mandatory review days and 1 comprehensive predictor exam (to evaluate if I am projected to pass NCLEX in January) is all that stands between me and the glorious graduation day. I gave a presentation to younger nursing students with one of my colleagues today...and remembered when I was in their shoes. Believe me, I'm so thankful (and relieved!) to be where I am today.
As this is my second undergraduate degree, please...absolutely no graduation gifts. The biggest gift that you can give me is your continued support, thoughts and prayers for my next journey and an afternoon/evening of your time to celebrate with me sometime in January or February. I am certainly having a graduation party, but I'm waiting until I can actually relax and celebrate in full force.
My love to you all.
First, I need to thank my incredible family. Without you, I would not have been able to dodge the many obstacles that I have navigated. I also need to thank my dear friends who have been incredibly patient with me-missing get-togethers because I was working, studying or in class...the delays in my email replies and the few vacations I've been able to take to come and visit you-near and far. To my amazing coworkers...who challenge me to do better and study harder...and who have supported me through an incredible career journey. You continue to inspire me with your professional accomplishments.
So, there are 38 days separating me from walking across the stage in my cap and gown...and then getting pinned in the nursing specific recognition ceremony. 38 days, 126 clinical hours, 3 major assignments, 2 mandatory review days and 1 comprehensive predictor exam (to evaluate if I am projected to pass NCLEX in January) is all that stands between me and the glorious graduation day. I gave a presentation to younger nursing students with one of my colleagues today...and remembered when I was in their shoes. Believe me, I'm so thankful (and relieved!) to be where I am today.
As this is my second undergraduate degree, please...absolutely no graduation gifts. The biggest gift that you can give me is your continued support, thoughts and prayers for my next journey and an afternoon/evening of your time to celebrate with me sometime in January or February. I am certainly having a graduation party, but I'm waiting until I can actually relax and celebrate in full force.
My love to you all.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Last Semester
It is finally here...and I am feeling a mixture of emotions. There is a big part of me that is counting down the days until graduation (December 18th!) and there is another (right now, very tiny) part that is really nervous about what is happening after graduation. Nothing is for certain...and although I can't wait to take the NCLEX, I am really feeling overwhelmed. I have so much to review; basic A & P, patho, all of the specialty areas and of course, the meds. I almost don't know where to focus! I have been waiting for this semester for over 2 years-to finally start the rest of my life, move on with my career and be a part of normalcy.
I don't even know what normal is anymore. I'm not sure that any part of my life is considered "normal" but then again, is anyone really the norm anymore? Ridiculous hours are more than a habit. Up by 4:30a (5a if I am lazy and sleep in), commuting to school, sitting in classes for hours on end, 12 hour clinical days, 12 hour work days, a rare day off from work or school which is spent studying...this craziness never ends! I've had many people ask me what I'm going to do with all of my spare time when I'm finished with school...am I going to work 3 jobs? Go right to grad school? The answer is...first, I am going to sleep. Then, I will determine how my free time will be spent. I have so much on my "to-do" list (well, it's probably a bucket list, but I don't like that term) that maybe I will take a little time to accomplish things that aren't related to professional development first. Grad school....yes, I will get there eventually. Right away, I want to work in the clinical setting-and really learn and advance my skills, before I start on a track with little direction and knowledge. Plus, working will give me focus on what I want to do 5 years from now...10 years from now...to keep learning. I've thought a lot about an MSN...for a clinical leadership role-such as a nurse educator role, teaching a clinical thru a University, or even (gasp!) research. I can't envision myself ever leaving the bedside nursing role, though. If I decide to continue for an APN, I will choose a specialty that is very involved in what happens bedside.
Anyway, I am continuing to explore the wonderful neighborhoods around my new home as I get outside for the occasional run, trip to the grocery store, or even on my way out of town. I have been downtown a few times, Brady St. area, and of course, the adorable Village of Tosa, which is walking distance from my place. As the weather turns cooler, it will be interesting to see what the neighborhoods are like in the wintertime. I can't wait for a day off...to spend dancing in the rain, building a snowman or picking apples in a nearby orchard. I have a feeling though...I will have free time starting in December-so I'll be starting by building a snowman.
Hopefully my next post will be in less than a month from now! Love, Rose
I don't even know what normal is anymore. I'm not sure that any part of my life is considered "normal" but then again, is anyone really the norm anymore? Ridiculous hours are more than a habit. Up by 4:30a (5a if I am lazy and sleep in), commuting to school, sitting in classes for hours on end, 12 hour clinical days, 12 hour work days, a rare day off from work or school which is spent studying...this craziness never ends! I've had many people ask me what I'm going to do with all of my spare time when I'm finished with school...am I going to work 3 jobs? Go right to grad school? The answer is...first, I am going to sleep. Then, I will determine how my free time will be spent. I have so much on my "to-do" list (well, it's probably a bucket list, but I don't like that term) that maybe I will take a little time to accomplish things that aren't related to professional development first. Grad school....yes, I will get there eventually. Right away, I want to work in the clinical setting-and really learn and advance my skills, before I start on a track with little direction and knowledge. Plus, working will give me focus on what I want to do 5 years from now...10 years from now...to keep learning. I've thought a lot about an MSN...for a clinical leadership role-such as a nurse educator role, teaching a clinical thru a University, or even (gasp!) research. I can't envision myself ever leaving the bedside nursing role, though. If I decide to continue for an APN, I will choose a specialty that is very involved in what happens bedside.
Anyway, I am continuing to explore the wonderful neighborhoods around my new home as I get outside for the occasional run, trip to the grocery store, or even on my way out of town. I have been downtown a few times, Brady St. area, and of course, the adorable Village of Tosa, which is walking distance from my place. As the weather turns cooler, it will be interesting to see what the neighborhoods are like in the wintertime. I can't wait for a day off...to spend dancing in the rain, building a snowman or picking apples in a nearby orchard. I have a feeling though...I will have free time starting in December-so I'll be starting by building a snowman.
Hopefully my next post will be in less than a month from now! Love, Rose
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Results
Heard from the physician today...and great news! The needle biopsy results showed that I have a tubular adenoma, which although is benign, has a very small potential to change over time. The physician said the chance that it would become malignant is very tiny (her words: "never say never") but that if it would become any bigger, it would need to be excised. Her plan: follow up every 6 months for 2 years...at which point, if there has been no change, just continue with yearly check ups. If there is any change, it gets removed. Fair enough. I'm breathing a sign of relief. Thanks again for all of the positive thinking :)
Friday, September 3, 2010
The Ouch Factor
I had today off from work. Apparently I decided that kicking off a holiday weekend, would best be accomplished by sitting in the doctor's office and having my breast biopsied.
The whole procedure and consultation took about an hour and a half. Basically, the biopsy procedure begins with a sterile prep (minor surgical procedure...important to minimize the infection risk with the betadine scrub) and then using a sterile ultrasound wand, the lump is located. Lidocaine (with epinepherine) is injected around where the insertion site will be, and then the needle actually is inserted all the way to the area that will be biopsied, numbing along the way. Thank heavens for Lidocaine-I didn't feel any pain during the procedure-just pressure and tugging. The insertion site is made using a small scalpel, and then a special probe which can drill out the tissue sample is placed in the insertion site, and then "drills" over to the lump. I could see the probe, lump and tissue being harvested on the ultrasound machine. It would have been much more interesting if it hadn't been me lying on the exam table. The doctor took 5 tissue samples (although when she transferred the samples to the specimen cup, the samples looked like blobs of blood) and had them sent to pathology. There was a little bit of bleeding, so I had a pressure dressing for about 10 minutes, which was replaced by three steri-strips with a gauze dressing covering the steri strips. I'm not supposed to shower for 24 hours, so I guess that means I can't have my evening workout tonight.
I was numb until a little while ago, when the lidocaine wore off. Now, it feels like someone punched me repeatedly in the chest, and I have quite the bruise. It hurts. I guess I'm just feeling sorry for myself right now, although I'm sure I'll eventually stop whining. As this is a holiday weekend, I won't have results until at least Wednesday. Thanks for all of your positive thinking-every little bit helps!
The whole procedure and consultation took about an hour and a half. Basically, the biopsy procedure begins with a sterile prep (minor surgical procedure...important to minimize the infection risk with the betadine scrub) and then using a sterile ultrasound wand, the lump is located. Lidocaine (with epinepherine) is injected around where the insertion site will be, and then the needle actually is inserted all the way to the area that will be biopsied, numbing along the way. Thank heavens for Lidocaine-I didn't feel any pain during the procedure-just pressure and tugging. The insertion site is made using a small scalpel, and then a special probe which can drill out the tissue sample is placed in the insertion site, and then "drills" over to the lump. I could see the probe, lump and tissue being harvested on the ultrasound machine. It would have been much more interesting if it hadn't been me lying on the exam table. The doctor took 5 tissue samples (although when she transferred the samples to the specimen cup, the samples looked like blobs of blood) and had them sent to pathology. There was a little bit of bleeding, so I had a pressure dressing for about 10 minutes, which was replaced by three steri-strips with a gauze dressing covering the steri strips. I'm not supposed to shower for 24 hours, so I guess that means I can't have my evening workout tonight.
I was numb until a little while ago, when the lidocaine wore off. Now, it feels like someone punched me repeatedly in the chest, and I have quite the bruise. It hurts. I guess I'm just feeling sorry for myself right now, although I'm sure I'll eventually stop whining. As this is a holiday weekend, I won't have results until at least Wednesday. Thanks for all of your positive thinking-every little bit helps!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The "B" day
Biopsy scheduled for this Friday, 9/3/10. 1PM. Of course, being a Friday, and a holiday weekend, I don't anticipate having results until next week sometime. It will be perfect timing, with the start of school 9/8/10. Apparently, September is going to be quite stressful.
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