Be a NURSE

Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association Promise of Nursing Scholarships

2010-01-13T05:36:00.000-08:00

Sponsor: Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association
The Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) was created in 1969 to honor Frances Tompkins, the Association's first Executive Director. Organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, the Foundation awards scholarships to qualified nursing students. These scholarships are available in selected regions of the U.S. Eligibility is determined by applicant’s school/college of nursing’s zip code. This program is supported by fund-raising events sponsored by Johnson & Johnson. Funds for this scholarship are supported by contributors in selected regions.
Award Amount: 2500
Award Duration:
Deadline: January 13, annually
Apply for this scholarship

Qualification Requirements
Grade Point Average (GPA):

Contact Information
Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association
45 Main St., Suite 606
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Telephone: 718-210-0705

Guide to the Internet for Nursing Job Seekers

2010-01-13T05:29:00.000-08:00

One more time, all together now, “Thank you for the internet!”. The internet saves enormous time and expense by allowing you to access websites specifically designed to help job seekers.
Nursing Job Websites
www.medicalworkers.com
Covers a wide variety of nursing and other healthcare jobs.
Applicants are able to post their resume. Website sometimes slow to load.
www.healthjobsusa.com
Website claims: We are the largest specialized health care / medical job site on the Internet, with over 1,000 clients and over 175,000 posted jobs. Our purpose is to put healthcare / medical job seekers in touch with facilities, staffing companies, travel companies, and recruiters to facilitate their job search. Applicants are able to post their resume.
www.nursingjobs.org
Applicants are able to post their resume. Website often shows up as number 1 search result for nursing jobs on google.com. The website is somewhat Ad top-heavy.
www.nurse-recruiter.com
Applicants are able to post their resume. This website is also somewhat Ad top-heavy. Multiple layers to finding the information you require on this website.
www.rnwanted.com
Recruiting nurses for positions throughout the USA. Post resumes, newsletter and bulletin board available.
www.medhunters.com
Employment site for healthcare careers including allied health, nursing and physicians.
More sites to be reviewed and added soon..

Nursing Jobs Outside Of Hospitals

2010-01-13T05:26:00.001-08:00

Community Health Nursing-Community health nurses usually work for governments, such as towns, cities, or counties, but sometimes for non-profit agencies. Their job is to educate the public about being aware of and avoiding health risks, how to achieve a healthier lifestyle, including principles of good nutrition and the basics of physical fitness. They often focus on a particular segment of the population, such as children or the elderly, and the job often involves public speaking at schools, churches, community groups, etc.
Complementary Health Care Nursing-More and more people are turning to what’s called “alternative” or “complementary” health care. Traditional Western medicine is known as allopathic medicine, but there are other approaches to health care, and many nurses have embraced these approaches and use them for caring for and healing people. Chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, herbalism, nutrition, reflexology, and other means of treating disease have grown in popularity in the past decades. Many nurses practice these things themselves, or they work in clinics with alternative practitioners. Experts believe that complementary health care nursing will be one of the fastest growing and most popular nursing careers in the next few years.
Prison/Jail Nursing-It’s an unfortunate fact of life, but there are well over a million people incarcerated in America, and the number is continuing to grow all the time. And just like the rest of the population, they have health problems and concerns, and require medical care. It takes a special kind of nurse to work in a correctional facility, and you’ll probably want to talk to some nurses who’ve done it before beginning a prison nursing career.
Managed Care Nursing-With more and more people having health insurance, and with the costs of health care skyrocketing, HMO’s and insurance companies are hiring nurses to work directly for them. Managed care nurses serve both patients and their employers by helping the companies provide quality health care for more people by educating their clients about disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, and looking for different health care delivery options in order to keep costs down.
Nursing Educator-Someone has to teach people how to do nursing, and with the growing nurse shortage there’s an increasing demand for nurse educators. In fact, one of the main causes of the current nurse shortage is a lack of qualified nursing instructors. It’s an ideal way to combine your nursing occupation with a love of teaching. Becoming a nurse educator will require at least a master’s degree, and several years experience, but it’s certainly a worthy career goal for any nurse who’d loves their profession and wants to improve it and see it thrive.
Administrative Nursing-Nurse administrators are found in many places, not just hospitals. Large medical clinics often employ them, as well as nurse staffing companies and health care providers. If you’ve got a talent for managing people and enjoy working in an administrative position, and you’ve got good office and people skills, this is a good nursing career choice for you. You’ll need some experience, and many jobs will require a master’s.
Occupational Nursing-Occupational nurses work directly for private companies, such as large factories, or any other company with a few hundred or more employees. Businesses have found that having their own nurse on staff is very cost effective, and it’s a benefit that many employees really appreciate. Occupational nurses’ duties vary, and they include designing health, safety, and wellness programs, giving instructional lectures, and running an onsite clinic for employees for minor health issues.
Missionary/Goodwill Nursing-There are many organizations and agencies providing aid and relief to third world countries. Some are government agencies, others are private sector non profit groups, and many are religious in nature. Nursing opportunities with these groups are abundant. If you want to help people less fortunate than ourselves, and you’re open to spending a lot of time overseas, there’s no better way to do that than by putting your nursing skills to work.
Pain Management Nursing-One nursing occupation that’s growing rapidly is pain management nursing. There have been tremendous advances in the past few years in understanding pain, measuring its intensity and impact, and responding to it with appropriate doses of medication. Many pain management nurses work full time with cancer patients, in homes, hospices, and hospitals. This nursing specialty requires a master’s degree.
School Nursing-Most of us no doubt have memories of the school nurse when we were growing up. Today, more school nurses than ever are needed. One reason is that there are more school kids today than years ago, and another is that more kids with special needs are attending regular schools. A career as a school nurse doesn’t necessarily require a master’s degree, and school nurses may work for one particular school full time, or may rotate between various schools for an entire system. And it’s not just public schools; some private schools also employ full or part time nurses. If you love working with kids, a career as a school nurse is option for you.
Substance Abuse Nursing-Drug and alcohol addiction are unfortunately major problems in today’s society. Substance abuse nurses work with people who are struggling with these addictions. Many of them work in detox and rehab clinics; some work in private counseling. They help people to safely end their addiction, and then work with them to get to the root causes of their problem, and help them to overcome, and build a drug and alcohol free life. This nursing career can certainly be frustrating at times, due to the power these substances have over people, leading to many relapses, but for a nurse who wants to improve the quality of people’s lives, it’s an admirable career choice.
Certified Nurse Midwife-Once you’ve been certified as a registered nurse, should you choose to go back and get a master’s degree in nursing, one career option for you is the certified nurse midwife. In this position, you’ll be working with pregnant and expectant mothers, giving them and their babies pre-natal care, actually delivering the baby, caring for mother and infant immediately after birth, and general nursing duties. You’ll need to take courses approved by the American College of Nurse-Midwives, and then pass a certification test.
Temp Nursing-More and more nurses are choosing not to work for a single facility, but to sign up with one of the many temporary nurse staffing agencies across the country. Many nurses find this an ideal way to build their career, as they get to pick and choose where and when they work. If they have a bad experience at a particular place, they can decline to go back there. They can choose not to work for several weeks at a time if they so desire. The flexibility that temp nurses have is one of the main reasons for working through agencies, and benefits are getting better all the time. Some agencies specialize in travel nursing, which means that you could work several weeks in Los Angeles, then New York City, then Hawaii, or wherever you choose. Your housing is paid for, and many times generous per diems are provided. It’s a great way to travel for single people in nursing. If you’re a nurse who wants variety and flexibility, then temp nursing is an excellent choice.
By no means are these all the options for nurses who want to work outside hospitals. The world of nursing careers beyond hospital walls is enormous and amazing in its variety-there are nurses who specialize in caring for diabetes patients in their homes, nurses who work full time with cancer patients in their homes, nurses who work for law firms, nurse who work for lawmakers in writing bills, nurses who work at camps for children, nurses who staff poison control centers. All branches of the military need professional nurses to care for our troops. Many nurses start their own business as a consultant to hospitals, businesses, insurance companies, etc. Some nurse write about nursing full time, including nursing textbooks. Some nurses even work full time for churches or church groups. There are hospice nurses, which are sort of a hybrid between home health care and hospital care. The world of nursing careers is wide open, and new job descriptions are being created all the time as nursing responds to a rapidly changing world. If you’re considering a nursing career, but thought all nursing jobs were the same, think again. And if you’re not sure which nursing career is right for you, there’s plenty to choose from, and you’re bound to find one that suits your skills and personality. So don’t hesitate to pursue a nursing career-there’s never been a better time, and nurses are needed now more than ever.

Hospital Careers For Nursing

2010-01-13T05:25:00.001-08:00

Nursing is not a one size fits all occupation , and hasn’t been for a long time. The world of nursing has come a long way since the days of Clara Barton and Florence Nightingale, and there are all sorts of career options and specializations available for modern day nurses. While many nurses still work in hospitals, many do not, and in or out of the hospital, there’s an amazing variety of nursing careers available. So don’t feel pigeonholed into thinking in terms of the old nursing stereotype. We’ll talk about some of the different jobs open to today’s nurses, both in hospitals, and outside hospitals.
Nursing Jobs In Hospitals:
Nurse Practitioner-This is another option for nurses with advanced training and experience. Nurse Practitioners perform many of the functions that physicians perform, including prescribing medication (in most states). Nurse practitioners work under the supervision of a medical doctor, but they are largely independent in their day to day activities. Because of the ever growing tendency of M.D.s to specialize, the number of general practitioners has been dropping precipitously in the past few decades. To fill the gap, state medical boards created the N. P. position. Nurse practitioners are for many people their “family doctor”. They handle common illnesses, and give health counseling and advice on avoiding sickness. A master’s degree is required for this nursing career, and N.P. programs usually require candidates to have several years nursing experience before acceptance.
Nurse Anesthesiologist-This is another career option for nurses that requires a master’s degree, and advanced training. The vast majority of anesthesia administered in American hospitals is administered by nurses. Anesthesiology is one of the most important medical breakthroughs in history-before it came along, surgery was a horrifyingly painful ordeal. But now people can be operated on without fear thanks to anesthesia, and the nurses who deliver most of it. This is also one of the highest paying nursing careers.
Cardiac Care Nursing-Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in America, and preventing and reversing it is one of the primary goals of modern medicine. Cardiac care nurses work with doctors who are treating victims of heart disease and other cardiac related ailments, by means of bypass surgery, angioplasty, pacemaker implants, etc. Most of the time their work is done in a hospital, but cardiac nurses can sometimes be found in specialty medical clinics, and some even visit patients at home.
Case Manager Nurse-Sometimes a patient, especially under long term care, will face a bewildering number of medical appointments, procedures, doctors, oncologists, surgeons, etc. Keeping track of them, as well as handling the interaction between the patient and the health care system is the job of the Nurse-Case Manager. Additionally, he or she not only makes sure the patient gets good health care, but also works to see to it that it’s done in a cost effective manner, saving the facility unnecessary expense. Nurse-Case Managers usually specialize in either a particular segment of the population, such as children or the elderly, or in certain medical specialties, such as AIDS, cancer, heart disease, etc.
Critical Care Nursing-You’re no doubt familiar with situations where someone has had a stroke, or been injured in a car accident, and news reports state that they’re listed in “critical condition”. Their situation is touch and go, they’re hanging between life and death. And critical care nurses are the ones who take care of them. This nursing specialty requires lots of compassion, empathy, split second decision making, intelligence, and good people skills. Not only are critical care nurses working to pull the patient back from the brink of death, but they’re also interacting and comforting the grieving and worried family members of the patients. It’s a tough job, but if you’re up to it, critical care nursing has some of the greatest emotional rewards of any nursing career.
Emergency Nursing-Nurses who work in emergency rooms deal with all kinds of situations that require immediate care, from appendicitis to car wrecks to gunshot wounds to strokes, etc. It takes a special kind of person to work in this environment-one who’s fast on their feet, can make split second decisions, isn’t easily shocked, etc. Life isn’t always exciting in the emergency room, but nurses who work there know that at any time they’re liable to encounter a life and death situation, and they have to be ready. Not everyone is cut out to work in emergency room setting, but many nurses would never work anywhere else.
Ob/Gyn Nursing-Obstetrics and gynecology nurses specialize in caring for women with regard to childbirth, pregnancy, and everything else related to the female reproductive system, from puberty all the way through menopause.
Hematology Nursing-Hematology has to do with diseases of the blood, such as sickle cell anemia and leukemia. This is a less common nursing specialty, but a very important one. If you’ve ever had a family member with hemophilia, you know just how important hematology nurses are. Much of their work involves educating patients and their family members on how to manage the disease, and cope with living with it.
Intravenous Nursing-Also known as infusion nursing, this is the nursing specialty that deals with delivering fluids, nutrients, and medications directly into the patient’s bloodstream. If you’ve heard the term “I. V. drip”, these are the nurses who administer the drips and other infusions. They also monitor the patients during delivery, and afterwards keep an eye on the opening of the skin to watch for infections.
Labor and Delivery Nursing-this is a popular career choice for nurses. It’s related to ob/gyn nursing, but focuses solely on pregnant mothers and their child immediately before, during, and immediately after labor and childbirth. Many L & D nurses wouldn’t trade jobs for anything as they can’t think of anything else that would give as much satisfaction as helping to bring new life into the world.
Medical Surgical Nursing-This specialty, commonly referred to as Med/Surg nursing, is the branch of nursing that most people have in mind when they think of a registered nurse. They help patients in hospitals and nursing homes and other facilities who are taking pharmaceutical drugs, and also care for them prior to and after surgery.
Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit-Nurses who specialize in this field, which is called NICU for short, take care of premature babies, and other babies who have serious problems immediately after being delivered. Some nurses say that while it can be an emotionally draining job, it can also be immensely satisfying.
Oncology Nursing-Oncology nurses work with cancer patients. This is a growing field, as the rates of cancer in this country continue to increase. Nurses who work in oncology administer chemotherapy, counsel patients, work with the doctors and surgeons to create and coordinate a cancer treatment plan, and educate patients on their disease and its treatment.
Perioperative Nursing-These are nurses who work in operating rooms, also known as OR nurses, although preoperative is rapidly becoming the preferred terminology. They assist surgeons directly and indirectly during surgery, prepare and maintain a safe and sterile operating environment, and monitor patients vital signs and progress during and immediately after surgery. Many periop nurses further specialize in a particular kind of surgery, such as heart surgery or neurosurgery.
Otorhinolaryngology Nursing-Also known as Head and Neck nursing, this is the branch of nursing that cares for patients with injuries and diseases affecting these areas of the body, such as accident victims, allergies, cancers of the head or neck, cleft palates, etc.
Pediatric Nursing-Pediatric nurses care for younger patients, from infancy until adulthood. Many of them also have further specializations, such as pediatric oncology, which is treating children with cancer, or pediatric hematology, since so many blood diseases strike people during childhood.
Perianesthesia Nursing-these are the nurses who assist anesthesiologists by preparing patients for anesthesia before surgery, and after surgery is completed, slowly bringing them back to wakefulness. Nurse Anesthesiologists actually administer the anesthesia; these nurses don’t actually handle the medication but help the patients during the process.
Perinatal Nursing-Nurses who specialize in pregnancy and childbirth issues, sometimes known as prenatal nursing. Pregnant women and their families face a lot of issues preparing for childbirth, especially in the case of a first child, and perinatal nurses help them get ready, telling them what to expect, giving them health tips, watching for symptoms, offering general health advice for both mother and fetus.
Psychiatric Nursing-Psych nurses work with patients facing issues of mental health, from eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addiction, physical and sexual abuse, personality disorders, etc. This branch of nursing can be highly stressful and isn’t for everybody, but like all other nursing specialties, has its own rewards that go along with the drawbacks.
Radiology Nursing-This is one of the more technically advanced nursing specialties. Radiology nurses work in the field of medical imaging, which includes sonograms, ultrasound, magnetic resonance, x-rays, etc. It’s also quite physically demanding-nurses who work in radiology are often on their feet all day, and there’s a lot of walking involved, in addition to sometimes having to wear heavy protective aprons made of lead.
Respiratory Nursing-Respiratory nurses, also known as pulmonary care nurses, work with patients who have lung problems or difficulty breathing. Their patients will have such conditions as lung cancer, emphysema, asthma, tuberculosis, etc. Many of them will also be breathing with the assistance of ventilators or oxygen machines. Respiratory nursing is primarily an in hospital nursing specialty, but many respiratory nurses will make home visits as part of their job.
Rehabilitation Nursing-Rehab nurses work with patients who’ve become temporarily or permanently disabled and unable to function normally due to injury or illness. Many of their patients are in wheelchairs or use other devices to assist them in getting around. It can be a physically demanding job, and requires a lot of compassion and patience.
Telemetry Nursing-Telemetry nurses work with heart patients in the cardiac units of hospitals, where the patients are hooked up to sophisticated instruments used to monitor various functions of the cardio pulmonary system, such as electrocardiogram machines. Not only must these nurses know how to care for patients, they must also be familiar with the various types of instruments and how to interpret the feedback they get from them.
Trauma Nursing-Trauma nurse usually work in emergency rooms, or with patients who’ve just come out of the emergency room. Whether it’s a heart attack victim, a person who almost drowned, someone who fell off a ladder, or a person who’s been in a severe car accident, trauma victims need intense care as soon as possible. They’re often in shock, or bleeding profusely, and are many times near death. Trauma nurses work with doctors and surgeons to treat their condition, and then stabilize them so they can hopefully make a full recovery. This can be an extremely stressful nursing career, more so than many others

NCLEX PN Exam Information and Tips

2010-01-13T05:23:00.000-08:00

In order to become certified as a practical or vocational nurse, individuals must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses. This exam has been developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to ensure that standards for professional practice are the same in every jurisdiction.
The NCLEX-PN exam is divided into the following Client Needs content categories and subcategories: Safe and Effective Care Environment, which is composed of Coordinated Care (11-17% of exam) and Safety and Infection Control (8-14%); Health Promotion and Maintenance (7-13%); Psychosocial Integrity (8-14%); and Physiological Integrity, which is composed of Basic Care and Comfort (11-17%), Pharmacological Therapies (9-15%), Reduction of Risk Potential (10-16%),and Physiological Adaptation (12-18%). The following subjects, known as Integrated Processes, are essential to all of the Client Needs categories: Clinical Problem-solving Process, Caring, Communication and Documentation, and Teaching and Learning.
NCLEX-PN Flashcards
NCLEX-PN Study Guide
The NCLEX-PN exam is administered through an interactive process called Computer Adaptive Testing: as questions are answered, the computer selects the subsequent questions that will give the most accurate gauge of the candidate. The computer will continue to pose questions until it has settled upon a grade of pass or fail. The exam will contain 85 questions at the least, and 205 at the most, and cannot last any longer than five hours. Although most of the items will be multiple-choice questions with four options, there may also be fill-in-the-blank, hotspot questions, or multiple-choice questions that ask the candidate to select more than one right answer. Many of the questions on the exam may require the candidate to read and interpret charts, tables, or pictures.
Unofficial exam scores will be available two business days after the exam date in some jurisdictions; official results will be delivered by the licensing agency in the candidate’s jurisdiction. The NCLEX-PN exam is administered at Pearson Professional Centers around the United States; prospective test-takers should visit the NCSBN website.

NCLEX RN Exam Information and Tips

2010-01-13T05:19:00.000-08:00

In order to become certified as a registered nurse, individuals must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. This exam has been developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to ensure that standards for professional practice are the same in every jurisdiction.
The NCLEX-RN exam is divided into the following Client Needs categories and subcategories: Safe and Effective Care Environment, which consists of Management of Care (13-19%) and Safety and Infection Control (8-14%); Health Promotion and Maintenance (6-12%); Psychosocial Integrity (6-12%); and Physiological Integrity, which consists of Basic Care and Comfort (6-12%), Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies (13-19%), Reduction of Risk Potential (13-19%), and Physiological Adaptation (11-17%). The following subjects, known as Integrated Processes, are essential to all of the Client Needs categories: Nursing Process, Caring, Communication and Documentation, and Teaching and Learning. The NCLEX-RN exam is administered through an interactive process called Computer Adaptive Testing: as questions are answered, the computer selects the subsequent questions that will give the most accurate gauge of the candidate. The computer will continue to pose questions until it has settled upon a grade of pass or fail.
NCLEX-RN Flashcards
NCLEX-RN Study Guide
The exam will contain 75 questions at the least, and 265 at the most, and cannot last any longer than six hours. Although most of the items will be multiple-choice questions with four options, there may also be fill-in-the-blank, picture/graphic-based questions, or multiple-choice questions that ask the candidate to select more than one right answer. Many of the questions on the exam will require the candidate to read and interpret charts, tables, and pictures. Unofficial exam scores will be available two business days after the exam date in some jurisdictions; official results will be delivered by the licensing agency in the candidate’s jurisdiction. The NCLEX-RN exam is administered at Pearson Professional Centers around the United States; prospective test-takers should visit the NCSBN website.

41471C Nurse Manager - ICU, Peds Cath Lab, PACU Holding unit (Charleston SC)

2010-01-13T05:17:00.001-08:00

1471C Nurse Manager - ICU, Peds Cath Lab, PACU Holding unit

Compensation OPEN, DOE ---------- WILL RELOCATE

REQUIRED:
1. Bachelors degree in nursing or Masters in nursing.
2. 3 + years of management experience in ICU, Peds Cath Lab area, or PACU Holding unit

This is a new position. We need an RN with degree and 3 plus years in nursing management in one of the areas listed and interest in Charleston.

The Peds Cath Lab/Procedure Areas and Recovery Areas Nurse Manager will manage Peds Cath Lab and outpatient procedure areas, including GI procedures, patient requiring moderate sedation and minor procedures. Responsible for approximately 40 ftes. .

Large area medical center in great southern city. All Nurse Managers require a Bachelors degree in nursing or Masters, or an education plan to obtain a Masters. They also require at least 3 years of management experience, preferably directly related to the vacant position. This is not a Director level position, but will report to the Director or Service Line Administrator. Salaries are based on Education and years of experience.

Bill Stein
AddSum Company
419-255-0409
888-255-0409
AddSum_Company@Yahoo.com

Nursing Jobs Help

2010-01-13T05:16:00.000-08:00

Across the United States there is a need for thousands of nurses. However, you must carefully consider all of your options when going for the nursing job that is right for you.
When applying for your first nursing job be flexible and persistent in the hiring process. If you have your sights set on a specific nursing position within a hospital, you may have to take an alternative position and maneuver yourself into your dream nursing job. It may take a little networking to really find the job you love. If you are looking for a job in education as a nurse, you will have to have some work experience.

Always have some type of long term plan. Generally speaking nurses that end up in hospital management and supervisory positions have a career plan. The nursing job you are currently in or working towards, will allow you to meet the key contact people in your field and location. Always take inventory of your skill level and experience. If your skill level has improved and your compensation has not, consider going for the nursing job you have always wanted. Some nurses end up going from job to job without any long term goals. Don't fall into this trap.
If you have taken and passed the NCLEX exam and are in good standing with your state boards, you are a valuable resource. Always join your local professional associations to network with other skilled nurses. These individuals will be able to tell you about the local trends in the job market.
Stay connected with graduates of your nursing program and recent alums. Many of the best nursing job tips come from classmates who know the hospitals and facilities in your job target region.
Always exhibit a positive attitude even though a recruiter or hospital may not need your services at a given time. In the flow of business a nurse may quit that day, and a position may open up at any time. If you become rude or belligerent after receiving the bad news, remember that information travels.

Nursing Jobs in Australia

2010-01-13T04:49:00.000-08:00

Job Details:
Position:	RNs Sydney, Brisbane, NSW Central Coast
Agency/Recruiter:	Manpower
Employer:	Manpower
Ref:	NJ/7377
Location:	Sydney, New South Wales Australia Manpower has positions available in Sydney, Brisbane and the NSW central coast.
The Role:
	Manpower is currently looking for RNs
Essential:	To be successful in this role you will possess the following skills, experiences and attributes... NSW Registered Nurse with Proven Qualifications (Clinical Specialties Highly Desirable) Enrolled Nurses & Endorsed Enrolled Nurses with Proven Qualifications Strong written and verbal communication skills Computer literate Interpersonal and leadership skills Proven Ability & Commitment to Quality Management
Desirable:	Certification in Venopuncture is Highly Desirable
Job Type:	Both Registered & Enrolled Nurses
Employment Basis:	Full Time/Part Time/Casual
Specialties:	Midwifery Critical Care Accident/Emergency Nurse Practioner Paediatrics Intensive care Oncology Medical & Surgical Cardiac Surgical Orthopaedic
Applications:
Date Job Added:	12-Jan-2010
Closing Date:	13-Feb-2010
Job Starts:	ASAP
Instructions:	If this position interests you and you have the relevant skills and experiences then please contact Dino Booc or Matthew Sheerin on 9941 2499 or submit you application via email to dbooc@manpower.com.au
Agency/Recruiter:	Manpower
Contact:	Dino Booc
Phone:	02 9941 2499
Email:
Postal Address:	Shop 2,1-5 Railway Street, Chatswood.

A rating scale to evaluate Nursing curriculum

2010-01-13T03:05:00.000-08:00

A rating scale to evaluate Nursing curriculum

Sr. No	Items	Strongly agree	Agree	Uncertain	Disagree	Strongly disagree
1.	Present curriculum is based on the needs of learners
2.	Present curriculum is comprehensive
3.	Present curriculum helps me in developing good character
4.	Present curriculum is based on the global health standards
5.	Present curriculum prepares me as an expert nurse
6.	Present curriculum is flexible to the changing trends
7.	Present curriculum promotes creativity and imagination
8.	Present curriculum enhances good communication skills
9.	Present learning experiences are arranged in an integrated manner
10.	Presently, learning in one area is interrelated to other area
11.	Present curriculum enables me to apply theory lessons in clinical area
12.	Present curriculum starts from simple to complex
13.	Present curriculum is in my capacity to understand
14.	Present learning experiences improves my problem-solving skills
15.	Present learning experiences helps me in good decision making
16.	Present learning experiences helps me in independent thinking
17.	Present learning experiences helps me in critical thinking
18.	Present curriculum in each year is arranged in continuation with previous year
19.	Current curriculum contributes to overall development of the students
20.	Present curriculum has clearly stated objectives
21.	Present curriculum equips me to function effectively as a member of a health team.
22.	Present curriculum enables me to practice competently
23.	Present curriculum enables the me to identify future health care needs
24.	Present curriculum enables to me to apply the concept of transcultural acceptance
25.	Present curriculum enables the students to apply research findings in nursing practice
26.	Present curriculum enables me in leadership skills
27.	Present curriculum enables me in teaching abilities in nursing practice
28.	I am satisfied with the evaluation methods in the present curriculum

VIRGINIA HENDERSON’S NEED THEORY

2010-01-08T18:44:00.000-08:00

“Nursing theories mirror different realities, throughout their development; they reflected the interests of nurses of that time.”

Introduction

“The Nightingale of Modern Nursing”

“Modern-Day Mother of Nursing.”

"The 20th century Florence Nightingale."

"little Miss 3x5"

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1897 and is the 5^th child of a family of 8^th children but spent her formative years in Virginia

Received a Diploma in Nursing from the Army School of Nursing at Walter Reed Hospital, Washington, D.C. in 1921.

Worked at the Henry Street Visiting Nurse Service for 2 years after graduation.

In 1923, she accepted a position teaching nursing at the Norfolk Protestant Hospital in Virginia, where she remained for several years

In 1929, Henderson determined that she needed more education and entered Teachers College at Columbia University where she earned her; Bachelor’s Degree in 1932, Master’s Degree in 1934.

Subsequently, she joined Columbia as a member of the faculty, where she remained until 1948(Herrmann,1998)

Since 1953, she has been a research associate at Yale University School of Nursing.

Died: March 19, 1996.

Achievements

Is the recipient of numerous recognitions for her outstanding contributions to nursing?

VH was a well known nursing educator and a prolific author.

She has received honorary doctoral degrees from the

Catholic University of America

Pace University,

University of Rochester,

University of Western Ontario,

Yale University

Her stature as a nurse, teacher, author, researcher, and consumer health advocate warranted an obituary in the New York Times, Friday March 22. 1996.

In 1985, Miss Henderson was honored at the Annual Meeting of the Nursing and Allied Health Section of the Medical Library Association.

Contribution

In 1937 Henderson and others created a basic nursing curriculum for the National League for Nursing in which education was “patient centered and organized around nursing problems rather than medical diagnoses” (Henderson,1991)

In 1939, she revised: Harmer’s classic textbook of nursing for its 4th edition, and later wrote the 5th; edition, incorporating her personal definition of nursing (Henderson,1991)

Although she was retired, she was a frequent visitor to nursing schools well into her nineties.

O’Malley (1996) states that Henderson is known as the modern-day mother of nursing. Her work influenced the nursing profession in America and throughout the world

The founding members of ICIRN (Interagency Council on Information Resources for Nursing) and a passionate advocate for the use and sharing of health information resources.

In 1978 the fundamental concept of nursing was revisited by Virginia Henderson from Yale University School of Nursing ( USA ). She argued that nurses needed to be prepared for their role by receiving the broadest understanding of humanity and the world in which they lived.

Publications

1956 (with B. Harmer)-Textbook for the principles and practices of Nursing.

1966-The Nature of Nursing. A definition and its implication for practice, Research and Education

1991- The Nature of Nursing Reflections after 20 years

Analysis of Nursing Theory

Images of Nursing, 1950-1970

The First School of Thought: Needs

This school of thought includes theories that reflect an image of nursing as meeting the needs of clients and were developed in response to such questions as

What do nurses do?

What are their functions?

What roles do nurses play?

Answers to these questions focused on a number of theorist describing functions and roles of nurses.

Conceptualizing functions led theorists to consider nursing client in terms of a Hierarchy of needs. When any of these needs are unmet and when a person is unable to fulfill his own needs, the care provided by nurses is required.

Nurses then provide the necessary functions and play those roles that could
Henderson’s Theory Background

The development of Henderson’s definition of nursing

First, she participated in the revision of a nursing textbook.

Second, she was concerned that many states had no provision for nursing licensure to ensure safe and competent care for the consumer.

The 14 components

Breathe normally.

Eat and drink adequately.

Eliminate body wastes.

Move and maintain desirable postures.

Sleep and rest.

Select suitable clothes-dress and undress.

Maintain body temperature within normal range by adjusting clothing and modifying environment

Keep the body clean and well groomed and protect the integument

Avoid dangers in the environment and avoid injuring others.

Communicate with others in expressing emotions, needs, fears, or opinions.

Worship according to one’s faith.

Work in such a way that there is a sense of accomplishment.

Play or participate in various forms of recreation.

Learn, discover, or satisfy the curiosity that leads to normal development and health and use the available health facilities.

Assumption

The major assumption of the theory is that:

Henderson’s theory and the four major concepts

Individual

Environment

Health

Nursing

Henderson's classic definition of nursing

"I say that the nurse does for others what they would do for themselves if they had the strength, the will, and the knowledge. But I go on to say that the nurse makes the patient independent of him or her as soon as possible."

Henderson’s and Nursing Process

Henderson views the nursing process as “really the application of the logical approach to the solution of a problem. The steps are those of the scientific method.”
“Nursing process stresses the science of nursing rather than the mixture of science and art on which it seems effective health care service of any kind is based.”

help patients meet their needs.

Characteristic of Henderson’s theory

Theories can interrelate concepts in such a way as to create a different way of looking at a particular phenomenon.

Concepts of fundamental human needs, biophysiology, culture, and interaction, communication and is borrowed from other discipline.E.g.. Maslow’s Hierarchy of human needs; concept of interaction-communication i.e. nurse-patient relationship

Theories must be logical in nature.

Her definition and components are logical and the 14 components are a guide for the individual and nurse in reaching the chosen goal.

Theories should be relatively simple yet generalizable.

Her work can be applied to the health of individuals of all ages.

Theories can be the bases for hypotheses that can be tested.

Her definition of nursing cannot be viewed as theory; therefore, it is impossible to generate testable hypotheses.

However some questions to investigate the definition of nursing and the 14 components may be useful.

Is the sequence of the 14 components followed by nurses in the USA and the other countries?

What priorities are evident in the use of the basic nursing functions?

Theories contribute to and assist in increasing the general body of knowledge within the discipline through the research implemented to validate them.

Her ideas of nursing practice are well accepted throughout the world as a basis for nursing care.

However, the impact of the definition and components has not been established through research.

Theories can be utilized by practitioners to guide and improve their practice.

Ideally the nurse would improve nursing practice by using her definition and 14 components to improve the health of individuals and thus reduce illness.

Theories must be consistent with other validated theories, laws, and principles but will leave open unanswered questions that need to be investigated.

Philosophical claims

The philosophy reflected in Henderson's theory is an integrated approach to scientific study that would capitalize on nursing's richness and complexity, and not to separate the art from the science, the "doing" of nursing from the "knowing", the psychological from the physical and the theory from clinical care.

Values and Beliefs

Henderson believed nursing as primarily complementing the patient by supplying what he needs in knowledge, will or strength to perform his daily activities and to carry out the treatment prescribed for him by the physician.

She strongly believed in "getting inside the skin" of her patients in order to know what he or she needs. The nurse should be the substitute for the patient, helper to the patient and partner with the patient. Like she said...
"The nurse is temporarily the consciousness of the unconscious, the love of life for the suicidal, the leg of the amputee, the eyes of the newly blind, a means of locomotion for the infant and the knowledge and confidence for the young mother..."

Henderson stated that “Thorndike’s fundamental needs of man” (Henderson, 1991, p.16) had an influence on her beliefs.

Value in extending nursing science

From an historical standpoint, her concept of nursing enhanced nursing science this has been particularly important in the area of nursing education.

Her contributions to nursing literature extended from the 1930s through the 1990s and has had an impact on nursing research by strengthening the focus on nursing practice and confirming the value of tested interventions in assisting individuals to regain health.

Usefulness

Nursing education has been deeply affected by Henderson’s clear vision of the functions of nurses.

The principles of Henderson’s theory were published in the major nursing textbooks used from the 1930s through the 1960s, and the principles embodied by the 14 activities are still important in evaluating nursing care in thee21st centaury.

Others concepts that Henderson (1966) proposed have been used in nursing education from the 1930s until the present O'Malley, 1996)

Testability

Henderson supported nursing research, but believed that it should be clinical research (O’Malley, 1996). Much of the research before her time had been on educational processes and on the profession of nursing itself, rather than on; the practice and outcomes of nursing , and she worked to change that.

Each of the 14 activities can be the basis for research. Although the statements are not.

Written in testable terms, they may be reformulated into researchable questions. Further, the theory can guide research in any aspect of the individual’s care needs.

Limitations

Lack of conceptual linkage between physiological and other human characteristics.

No concept of the holistic nature of human being.

If the assumption is made that the 14 components prioritized, the relationship among the components is unclear.

Lacks inter-relate of factors and the influence of nursing care.

Assisting the individual in the dying process she contends that the nurse helps, but there is little explanation of what the nurse does.

“Peaceful death” is curious and significant nursing role.

Purposes of nursing theories

In Practice:

Assist nurses to describe, explain, and predict everyday experiences.

Serve to guide assessment, interventions, and evaluation of nursing care.

Provide a rationale for collecting reliable and valid data about the health status of clients, which are essential for effective decision making and implementation.

Help to describe criteria to measure the quality of nursing care.

Help build a common nursing terminology to use in communicating with other health professionals.

Ideas are developed and words are defined.

Enhance autonomy (independence and self-governance) of nursing through defining its own independent functions.

In Education:

Provide a general focus for curriculum design

Guide curricular decision making.

In Research:

Offer a framework for generating knowledge and new ideas.

Assist in discovering knowledge gaps in the specific field of study.

Offer a systematic approach to identify questions for study; select variables, interpret findings, and validate nursing interventions.

Approaches to developing nursing theory

Borrowing conceptual frameworks from other disciplines.

Inductively looking at nursing practice to discover theories/concepts to explain phenomena.

Deductively looking for the compatibility of a general nursing theory with nursing practice.

Questions from practicing Nurse about using Nursing theory

Practice

Does this theory reflect nursing practice as I know it?

Will it support what I believe to be excellent nursing practice?

Can this theory be considered in relation to a wide range of nursing situation?

Personal Interests, Abilities and Experiences

What will it be like to think about nursing theory in nursing practice?

Will my work with nursing theory be worth the effort?

Summary

Background

Achievements

Publications

Analysis of Nursing theories

Development of Henderson’s definition of nursing

14 components

Major four concepts

Nursing process with Henderson’s theory

Comparison with Maslow's Hierarchy need

Assumptions

Usefulness

Testability

Characteristics

imitation

Conclusion

In conclusion, Henderson provides the essence of what she believes is a definition of nursing. She didn’t intend to develop a theory of nursing but rather she attempted to define the unique focus of nursing. Her emphasis on basic human needs as the central focus of nursing practice has led to further theory development regarding the needs of the person and how nursing can assist in meeting those needs. Her definition of nursing and the 14 components of basic nursing care are uncomplicated and self-explanatory.

References

Overview & Summary: First Genetics, Now Genomics: What Do Nurses Need to Know?

2010-01-08T18:33:00.000-08:00

Jean Jenkins PhD, RN, FAAN

My Dream

I have a dream that only you as a nurse can help fulfill. The dream is that individuals and their families receive the best healthcare possible. That they can ask their nurse about cutting-edge options of care and get knowledgeable answers. That as they make their journey along the healthcare continuum (from birth to death) they encounter nurses who are able to recognize and provide information that will help them make informed decisions. You may think that you are already providing that kind of care and information. If you have begun to incorporate genetic and genomic-research advances and information into your professional responsibilities, then I say congratulations, and thank you for helping me make this dream a reality. If not, or if you are unsure of what I am talking about, then I encourage you to read the articles in this OJIN Genetics and Genomics topic to learn more about your responsibilities in helping your patients access healthcare that meets their needs.
If you were the one experiencing the personal ramifications of an illness, wouldn’t you want to be able to access those clinical care services that integrate up-to-date discoveries today? If we were already doing the best we could - to predict those at risk for illness, to help prevent health problems, and to promote healthy responses - then research regarding the genetic contributions to health and illness would be unnecessary. Unfortunately, that is not the case. That’s one of the reasons I encourage you to join me in this struggle to make this dream a reality for patients and their families. The pathway may appear fuzzy, but let’s put some clarity to it by examining some of influencing factors. Think of it as a large wheel with multiple spokes all working together to gain momentum rolling towards improved healthcare outcomes for all.
Organizations We Work With
Many professional nursing organizations have begun to recognize the importance of their members’ awareness of genetics and genomics information. Forty-nine such organizations have endorsed the Essential Nursing Competencies and Curricula Guidelines for Genetics and Genomics and have begun to implement initiatives. Read the article by Badzek et al. to learn more about the American Nurses Association’s efforts to partner with others to prepare the practicing nurse to be able to offer care that integrates emerging genetic and genomic information and technology into clinical care.
Organizations We Work In
It takes time and effort to change traditional healthcare systems. The Prows article provides a view of the value of application of the nurse’s perspective in designing service delivery models that promote the safe, efficient, and effective utilization of genetic/genomic information in care decisions, such as pharmacogenomic genotype testing. Recognition by organizational leadership of the value of genomic services is necessary to the design of systems and resources that integrate new technology, such as point-of-care genetic testing.
Our Patients and Their Families
The discoveries learned today have implications for the types of options available for care of patients with rare genetic diseases, for example, lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) and those with genomic contributions to chronic disease risks and illness. Read the article by Bailey to learn more about a therapeutic intervention available for patients with an LSD today. This example of individualized care illustrates the importance of knowing more about the burden and benefits of requiring a lifetime of treatment. Research by nurses caring for such patients will provide insights into the stressors, costs, effectiveness, and other outcomes of interventions currently available for this group of genetic diseases. Learning from their experiences will enlighten us about some of the issues those receiving genomic-based healthcare will soon face.
Society
Advances that require clinical translation into genetic and genomic healthcare require consideration of ethical ramifications for individuals, their family, and society. The article by Lea discusses current and emerging ethical issues encountered throughout the life continuum and around the world. Nurses are important advocates for the development of policy to address several of these issues. An understanding of the ethical challenges encountered by those receiving genetic and genomic-based health care is an essential competency for all nurses.
Populations
The more we learn about genetic variation within populations, the greater the potential for tailoring of care that incorporates a cultural assessment. For example, recognizing populations at highest risk for diabetes can help target interventions. However, this potential also increases the possibility for discrimination against certain populations. It is important that nurses recognize the value of utilizing such sensitive information to improve care. However, as noted by Paniagua and Taylor, research with regards to the cultural perspective on utilization of genomic information and services is scarce. Nursing research as to the implications of ethno-cultural beliefs and practices for utilization of genomic-based care within our diverse populations is an integral component to assuring appropriate utilization of genomic-based healthcare.
You
None of these factors can be viewed in isolation of each other. However, you are the center of all these spokes of the wheel! You interact with each of these components both personally and professionally. But you can only make a difference if, as Maradiegue mentions in her article, you “embrace genetics.” This final article in OJIN’s topic on Genetics and Genomics discusses how you can learn and teach genetics. Identification of valuable resources presented by Maradiegue can arm you with crucial information. Then you can join me in making this dream a reality by assuring competency within our nursing profession: with the incorporation of genetic and genomic knowledge and skills enable yourself and others to assess, identify, refer, and provide education, care, and support to all individuals and their families interested in receiving the best care possible.
I know this may only be my dream…. “You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, ‘Why not?’” (Shaw, 1921). I hope you will become excited about the possibilities and join me in helping make my dream a reality.

Author

Jean F. Jenkins, PhD, RN
E-mail: Jean.Jenkins@nih.gov
Dr. Jenkins received her BSN from the University of Maryland; MSN at the Catholic University of America; and a PhD in 1999 completing Innovation of Diffusion Research on Genetics Education for Nurses. Dr. Jenkins has assumed key leadership positions at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It was during a clinical internship as part of doctoral studies at George Mason University, Virginia that she recognized the importance of advances in genetics research for all health care providers. She has been motivated and committed to the preparation of others to become aware, plan for, and integrate genetic concepts into practice. In 2005 she received the Michael J. Scotti Jr. Award, for National Coalition for Health Professional Education in Genetics (NCHPEG) efforts as Content and Instruction Co-Chair. She coordinated the development and consensus of the NCHGPEG competencies and the Essential Nursing Competencies and Curricula Guidelines for Genetics and Genomics. She has co-authored several genomic nursing texts. Currently Dr. Jenkins is Senior Clinical Advisor, Office of the Director National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH.

References

Shaw, G. B. (1921). Back to Methuselah, part 1, act 1. Retrieved January 4, 2008 from www.quotationspage.com/quotes/Geaorge_Bernard_Shaw/31

Nursing Salaries

2010-01-06T19:37:00.000-08:00

As a nurse, you will enjoy a generous salary and an outstanding compensation package. There is a greater need for nurses today than ever before. Nurses with special training and administrative skills are extremely well-paid. You will definitely be able to support yourself on a nurse's salary.
Because LPNs require less education, they earn less money. However, within just a year you can be earning a great living as an LPN. If you don't have time to spare, a career as an LPN is rewarding and lucrative. An beginning LPN enjoy an average annual salary of almost $30,000. By the time you have 5 years of experience, you will earn an average of $35,414 annually. Very experienced LPNs earn up to $40,000 annually or more.

What Are Registered Nursing Salaries?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for registered nurses in 2006 was $57,280. The lowest 10 percent of nurses still earned around $40,000 annually. The highest 10 percent of nurses earned in excess of $83,440 annually. As a registered nurse, you will be earning over $40,000 annually with the opportunity for plenty of overtime.
The area where registered nurses earned the most was employment services nurses earning $64,260 annually. Nurses in hospitals earned an average of $58,550. Lesser salaries between $52,000 and $54,000 were paid annually to nurses working in home health care services, physicians' offices and nursing care settings.

What Type Of Compensation Packages Do Nurses Receive?

Nurses usually earn a generous compensation package in addition to a generous annual salary. Health and medical coverage are typically offered to nurses. Other benefits include life insurance, a pension plan and tuition reimbursement. Because of the increasing need for skilled registered nurses, a talented LPN can easily earn and learn at the same time – while their employer pays for it.

Why Are Nurses Well-Paid?

There are several reasons why nurses are so well-paid. First and foremost, nurses are responsible for taking care of patients. Nurses must be well-organized and keep accurate records. Often overtime is mandatory for nurses because so many medical facilities are understaffed due to the nursing shortage. Nurses may also be required to work on holidays depending on their employer. Long hours, demanding work and a lack of staff are reasons why nurses are paid accordingly.
Linda Richard, the first officially trained nurse in America, graduated in 1873. Richard commented about the career, “Nurses are to be obedient, without question.” Nurses today must be able to think independently yet listen without question when required. Education, skill and experience gives a good nurse the ability to handle any situation.

Are There Opportunities To Earn Even More In Nursing?

A hard-working LPN is likely to be recognized and offered tuition reimbursement by their employer to become an RN. If you are already an RN, you can get a master's degree in nursing science to work in administration, education or research. Opportunities in nursing are limitless with administrative nurses earning in excess of $100,000 annually.

What Are The Other Rewards I Can Expect From Nursing?

Nurses not only receive outstanding salaries an benefits, they appreciate other rewards. Nurses have flexible work schedules. Although they must sometimes work long hours, they also have an opportunity to customize their schedules to accommodate their family life. For example, a nurse can work the evening shift while their spouse works days. Often nurses have access to child care or child care assistance. Because nurses are in such demand, employers usually pay significant bonuses to loyal, hard-working nursing staff.
Nursing is also a personally rewarding way to earn a living. Clara Barton, responsible for establishing the first permanent American Red Cross society, commented, “I may be compelled to face danger, but never fear it, and while our soldiers can stand and fight, I can stand and feed and nurse them.”

NEUROSCIENCE NURSING FOUNDATION REGULAR SCHOLARSHIPS

2010-01-06T19:35:00.001-08:00

Provide scholarship to nurses interested in further study in neuroscience nursing
Amount of Award: $1,500/year
Duration of Award: 1 year
Deadline: January each year
Contact Information:
Neuroscience Nursing Foundation
4700 West Lake Avenue
Glenview, IL 60025
Phone: (847)375-4733
Fax: (877) 734-8677
http://www.aann.org/nnf/

Honey for Wound Care

2010-01-05T14:52:00.000-08:00

Varicose and Skin Ulcers, Diabetic Ulcers, Wounds, Burns, Boils, Pressure Sores, Cracked Skin, Acne, Atopic Eczema

Studies and clinical trials are showing that high activity Honey provides an optimum germ-free moist wound-healing environment which supports and facilitates the natural healing of varicose and skin ulcers, diabetic ulcers, pressure sores, wounds, burns, boils, cracked skin ,cuts and grazes.

A very successful clinical trial using Honey on unresponsive skin ulcers and chronic wounds was carried out at Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand, in 1999-2000

The following information has been gathered from some of the many reports about the healing qualities of honey. The relevant reports are listed in the Bibliography later in this section.

Medical studies are showing that a moist wound environment produces the best healing results.
* Moist healing speeds up the healing process. Tissue regrowth is slowed if a wound dries.
* Moist healing results in less scarring. A scab (dried serum) is the bodys natural attempt to keep a wound moist.
But the type of cell growth under a scab results in a pitted scar. A totally moist environment prevents the development of scabs.
* A moist wound environment is less painful, requires fewer dressing changes and produces better cosmetic results.
If dressings stick to the scab of a dry wound, when the dressings are changed the scab is torn off, causing pain and also the tearing away of newly re-grown skin tissue.

But Bacterial Infection Develops in a Moist Environment
A wound will not heal if infected or inflamed.

Honey can provide a germ-free moist wound healing environment
Honey applied to wounds provides a moist wound environment, could deal with bacterial infection and it nourishes new growing tissue.

But the Antibacterial Potency of Honey Varies
Honey heals primarily because of a hydrogen peroxide antibacterial activity. When honey comes into contact with body moisture the glucose oxidase enzyme introduced to the honey by the bee slowly releases the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide.
This is released at sufficient levels to be effective against bacteria but not tissue damaging.
But the hydrogen peroxide antibacterial activity in honey can vary widely according to:
1. Honey floral type (some nectars contain a catalase which destroys the hydrogen peroxide)
2. How the honey has been handled, especially during processing (the glucose oxidase enzyme which produces hydrogen peroxide is easily destroyed by heat, fluid and sunlight).
3. The hydrogen peroxide can be broken down by a catalase enzyme present in body tissue and serum, so reducing the antibacterial potency when used on a wound or infection.

SCHOLARSHIPS OF THE UNITED DAUGHTERS OF THE CONFEDERACY

2010-01-05T14:46:00.001-08:00

Provide scholarship for nursing education to lineal descendants of Confederate veterans.
Amount of Award: Varies
Application Deadline: March of each year.
Number of Awards: 1/year
Duration of Award: 1 year
Contact Information:
United Daughters of the Confederacy
Attn: Education Director
328 North Boulevard
Richmond, VA 23220-4057
Phone: (804) 355-1636
Fax: (804)353-1396
Email: hdqudc@rcn.com
http://www.hqudc.org/scholarships/scholarships.html

General Nursing Scholarships

2010-01-05T14:45:00.001-08:00

SGNA RN GENERAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP
Provide scholarship to full-time students working toward licensure as a registered nurse.
Amount of Award: $2,500
Application Deadline: July of each year
Number of Awards: 1 or more
Duration of Award: 1 year
Contact Information:
Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc.
Attn: Awards Committee
401 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611-4267
Phone: (312) 321-5165; (800) 245-SGNA
Fax: (312) 527-6658
http://www.sgna.org/Education/scholarships.cfm
Other nursing scholarship by SGNA: RN Advancing Education Scholarship, Novice Nurse/Associate Scholarship and more.

Avoiding Scholarship Scams

2010-01-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

Searching for scholarships can be time consuming and confusing. Scholarship scam artists prey on people who are trying to reduce the time spent searching for scholarships. The following are some common scholarship scams to avoid.
Programs which require a scholarship handling fee. There are a few legitimate scholarships which do ask for a small fee of $5.00 or less to cover mailing and administrative costs. However, if a scholarship program asks for more than this, it is probably a scam.
Scholarship programs which claim to do all the work for you. Almost all legitimate scholarship programs will ask you to do some work, usually by filling out forms and writing essays. If a scholarship program claims that you do not have to do anything to win a scholarship, it’s probably a scam.
Programs which claim you can’t get the information they are offering anywhere else. All legitimate scholarships are advertised for free, you should never have to pay someone to find them. If you are looking for information on scholarships, you can look at scholarship websites including the U.S. Department of Education’s website at www.ed.gov, or the FinAid website at www.finaid.org. You can also run a free computerized scholarship search at www.fastweb.com. Your school’s career center will also have access to many scholarship databases and reference materials.
Programs which request your credit card number or bank account number to hold a scholarship for you. Legitimate scholarship programs will not ask for any account number or confidential information to hold a scholarship for you. If a scholarship program is asking for this information, do not give it to them.
Guarantees that you will win a certain number of scholarships. There is no way for a legitimate scholarship program to guarantee that you will win a certain number of scholarships. Most often the companies that make these statements are really offering loan programs and calling them scholarships.
Programs which ask you to schedule an appointment to pick up a free scholarship and financial aid package at a hotel. At these hotel appointments, students and their parents are usually forced to sit through sales presentations aimed at getting people to pay a fee for a scholarship search service. You should never have to pay for a scholarship search.
The following sources can be contacted to research scholarship programs and to report scholarship scams.
National Fraud Information Center
1-800-876-7060
www.fraud.org
Council of Better Business Bureaus
703-276-0100
www.bbb.org
Federal Trade Commission
877-FTC-HELP
www.ftc.gov

How to Write a Winning Nursing Scholarship Essay

2010-01-04T08:57:00.000-08:00

Writing an effective essay is one of the most essential components of a successful scholarship search. In fact, many scholarship awards are based solely on the quality of the essay. The following are some tips to remember when writing a nursing scholarship essay.
Prepare a clear outline for your essay. Nursing scholarship programs are looking for essays that present a clear thought pattern. You can make sure that your scholarship essay is presented in a clear manner by creating a simple outline. Your outline should include three main parts, the introduction, body and conclusion.
The introduction should capture your readers’ attention and introduce the main points you will discuss in your essay. The body of your essay should be broken out into several paragraphs that present the main points of the essay. The main points should be supported with facts, thoughts, ideas, quotes and other material which will hold your readers’ interest. The conclusion of your essay should restate the main idea of your essay. It is also effective to refer to the future in the conclusion of a scholarship essay. You can do this by discussing your future career goals in the nursing field, or by stating a specific aspiration which you hope to achieve during your nursing career.
Use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation. It is always important to use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation in writing a scholarship essay. Although the nursing profession may not require you to study grammar and spelling, it is essential that you avoid any simple errors in your essay. Ensuring that your essay is free of mistakes will make you look professional and leave a positive impression on the judges.
Write in response to the scholarship requirements and purpose. Be sure that your essay responds to the scholarship requirements. Some scholarships may require that you intend to practice in a certain field of nursing, that you work in a certain area, or that you attend a certain nursing program or school. Your essay should clearly identify how you meet these requirements.
Do as much research as you can about the scholarship program and the organization that is offering the scholarship. Organizations typically give away scholarships to promote certain interests or purposes. Make sure that you highlight the ways in which your career goals will fit with the scholarship program’s purpose.
Answer any questions thoroughly. If the scholarship program has requested that your essay address certain questions, make sure you answer these questions clearly and thoroughly. This is often an easy way to for judges to weed out applications that don’t fit the award criteria. Your essay must respond to any questions which are asked, or it is likely that it will not be given consideration.
Be original. Your essay will be among hundreds or even thousands of others, all from other nursing students who have the desire and ability to succeed in the nursing profession. If your essay does not stand out, it will be overlooked. To be original, you can either find a unique essay topic, or you can write about an ordinary topic and approach it in an original way. When you are trying to come up with original ideas for your essay, think about your own unique personality and experiences. What is it that made you decide to enter the field of nursing? What life experiences will you contribute to the nursing field? Spend some time thinking about what makes you unique as a nursing student and future nurse. This will help you to think of an original topic or approach.
Be cautious when recycling essays. In your scholarship application process, it is likely that you will be able to use parts and pieces of essays for more than one scholarship application. However, you should not merely write one or two general essays and send them out with every scholarship application. Remember, the judges who choose the scholarship winners are looking for an essay that is original and responds to the purpose and goals of the scholarship program. If you tailor each of your essays to the particular nursing scholarship you are applying for, you will have a much greater likelihood of success.
Get a second (or even third or fourth) opinion. After you have finished writing your essay, be sure to review it with at least one more person. You can ask your friends, family members, teachers, or professors to be your editors. When others review your essay, they can find errors and suggest possible improvements. You should review your essay with at least one other person, but it is even better if you can find three or more people to review your essay.
Follow these guidelines, and you will be able to write an original, professional and effective essay that gives you an edge over the competition.
Resource:
Improve Your Nursing Essay at EssayEdge.com : EssayEdge provides industry-leading nursing essay prep services and named "the world's premier application essay editing service" by the New York Times Learning Network and "one of the best essay services on the Internet" by the Washington Post.

NCLEX

2010-01-04T08:55:00.003-08:00

Basically, the exam is designed to see your knowledge and critical thinking skills as a potential nurse. Your critical care nursing judgment is put to the test. The examination is purposefully difficult so only qualified applicants will pass. Health promotion and a safe care environment are an examples of the types of topics covered in the NCLEX. There are multiple choice questions and alternative type items on the nursing exam.

How Do I Prepare For The NCLEX?

It is wise to take the NCLEX within a month of your graduation from nursing school. Spend at least three hours daily studying prior to the test. Review NCLEX tutorials and take plenty of practice exams. After years of intensive nursing training and practice, you are well-prepared. Take advantage of online resources to find out as much as possible about the exam. Get a good night's sleep the evening before the exam. Don't worry about naysayers or people who failed the exam. Think about your own studies and potential so you can remain calm during the testing process.

What Happens On The NCLEX Testing Day?

When you get ready to sit for your NCLEX, you must have an Authorization To Test (ATT) form or you cannot take the exams. You also need to bring photo identification. You will present these items to a receptionist who will ask you to sign in and assign you a number. You will get reading material to look over and then return to the desk when you are done. You are giving a key to a locker to store all your belongings. You will be fingerprinted and photographed. Prior to entering the testing room, you will be fingerprinted again. An administrator watches you during the test and a camera is directed on each person. An erasable white board is given to each person being testing so they can do calculations. If you must leave during the test to use the restroom, you will be escorted out by the test administrator.
The test is a maximum of 6 hours long with 265 questions on the NCLEX-RN and 205 questions on the NCLEX-PN. The test is based on a CAT (computer adapted testing) format. You can take a break but the time is deducted from your total testing time. When you are done, the test administrator escorts you out of the testing area. Your photo identification is returned and you are fingerprinted a last time. Within forty-eight hours, you can find out whether you passed or failed the NCLEX. If you fail the NCLEX, must wait a minimum of 45 days to retake the test.

Do I Need A License To Pass Medications?

Many hospitals require you to have a license to pass medications. Usually the hospital will pay you for the day you sit for the nursing exam. Most hospitals offer two or three week orientation sessions for all new nurses to demonstrate drawing blood, tube feeding, chest tube management and other essential skills. When you start to work prior to taking the NCLEX, you gain essential experience to help you pass this critical exam.

Will I Earn More When I Pass The NCLEX?

When you have a Registered Nurse License, your pay rate will increase. Your license is good for a period of one year. After a year, you must renew your license and start earning continuing education credits toward the renewal of your license in two years.

What Is Continuing Education?

All Licensed Registered Nurses must complete continuing education. The medical profession is constantly growing and changing. Continuing education ensures nurses keep up with the latest developments in their profession to offer the best possible care to patients. If you fail to complete mandatory continuing education, your license may be suspended. Online educational facilities make it easy for nurses to obtain their continuing education credits while working in a demanding profession.

Resources:

Amazon.com's best selling NCLEX Books

NCLEX Test-Prep Programs by KAPLAN
NCLEX Online Prep
This option includes dynamic instruction from one of Kaplan's expert nurse educators, 1000+ questions with explanations on CD ROM, strategic NCLEX practice using Kaplan's exclusive test-taking strategies, a diagnostic exam to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Types of Nursing Degrees

2010-01-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

There are other choices a nursing student has to make before selecting a program. One of those choices is whether to seek an Associate in Science degree (A.S.N.) or a Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.N.). The biggest difference between these two options is the amount of time required to complete the degree. An A.S.N. will take about 2 to 3 years to complete, while a B.S.N. will take 4 to 5 years. Graduates of both types of degrees will have the same job opportunities right after graduation; both degrees offer recent graduates entry-level positions. The difference is that, in the long-term, a B.S.N. offers more advancement opportunities than an A.S.N. There are some positions, such as administrative and management positions in hospitals, that are only open to nurses with a B.S.N. Another option for those interested in a career in nursing are accelerated B.S.N. programs. These programs are open to those with a Bachelor's degree in a different field and usually take 1 to 2 years to complete.
Students who decide to seek an A.S.N. have the option of returning to school to earn a B.S.N. Most schools offer R.N. to B.S.N. programs with varying admission requirements and program lengths. Another option available to A.S.N. graduates are B.S.N. to M.S.N. (Master of Science in Nursing) accelerated programs. These programs are designed to have students complete an accelerated B.S.N. in one year, and two years to complete the M.S.N.
Post-graduate work in the Nursing field offers an R.N. more opportunities and responsibilities. After earning a Master's degree in Nursing, nurses can work toward Advanced Practice Nursing (A.P.N.) degrees. Currently, there are four options: Certified Nurse Midwife, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, and Nurse Practitioner. The responsibilities of A.P.N.s vary according to state regulations; however, they are, generally, able to provide the same or similar services as physicians, such as diagnosing illnesses and prescribing medications. Most programs take about two years to complete with admission requirements varying among schools.

Nursing Job Outlook

2010-01-04T08:46:00.000-08:00

How Much Will Nursing Occupations Grow?

From today to 2016, nursing employment is anticipated to grow a significant 23 percent. Replacing experienced nurses who leave, advancements in patient care and an increasing focus on preventative care means nursing careers will continue to boom for the next decade. It is estimated there will be more than 587,000 new jobs in registered nursing alone.

Where Will Nurses Be Employed During The Next Decade?

Nurses will be employed in a variety of settings during the next 10 years. The most rapid growth will occur in physicians' offices, home health care services and outpatient care centers (excluding substance abuse and mental health). Growth will also occur in hospitals, employment services and nursing care facilities.

Why Is The Nursing Job Outlook In Physicians' Offices So Good?

Nursing employment will grow more rapidly in physician's offices than hospitals because more procedures are being performed on an outpatient basis. The growth of independent emergency centers means employment will grow in these areas.

Why Is The Nursing Outlook In Home Health Care So Good?

Hospitals are releasing patients sooner so there is also an increasing need for home health care from LPNs and RNs. There are more older people today with functional disabilities who prefer home health care. Technological advances make it possible to offer advanced treatment at home. Specially trained nurses will be required to accommodate these patients.

Where Else Will Nurses Be Employed In The Next 10 Years?

There is a demand for traveling nurses, also referred to as temporary workers. As the health care industry continues to grow and change, more nurses are needed. Medical facilities are often will to pay salary, benefits, housing fees and travel costs for traveling nurses to work for three to six months.

Which Hospital Departments Will Have The Greatest Need For Nurses?

Certain hospital departments typically need nurses on an ongoing basis. Bilingual nurses appreciate various opportunities working with patients in certain geographic regions. Because of demanding schedules and mandatory overtime, emergency and critical care departments have a high turnover. There are always jobs available for nurses with emergency training.

What Is The Nursing Job Outlook For LPNs Versus RNs?

RNs with a bachelor's degree are anticipated to have the best job prospects in the next decade. For RNs, the greatest competition will be seeking positions in outpatient care centers and physicians' offices because working hours are more predictable. Specialty nurses in advanced practices including midwifery, anesthetics and clinical will appreciate ongoing job opportunities in both rural and inner cities areas.

What Do Nurses Have To Say About Nursing Careers?

Consider the words of nurses yesterday and today when you decide on a career in nursing:
Florence Nightingale, one of the most famous nurses in history, stated, “Nursing is an art: and if it is to be made an art, it requires an exclusive devotion as hard a preparation, as any painter´s or sculptor´s work; for what is the having to do with dead canvas or dead marble, compared with having to do with the living body, the temple of God´s spirit? It is one of the FineArts: I had almost said, the finest of Fine Arts.”
Famous singer Naomi Judd was a nurse before she reached fame and fortune. Naomi says about nursing, “I learned more about myself by being an RN than anything else I've ever done.”
In the annual Gallup poll, nurses have lead the list of the most respected professions for 7 years in a row. For the salary and professional respect you desire in the future, pursue a career in nursing today.

Careers In Nursing

2010-01-04T08:43:00.001-08:00

There are two basic types of nurses. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) take care of sick, convalescent, disabled or injured people. Usually they work under the direction of registered nurses and physicians. Typically LPN training programs take one to two years to complete. These programs are offered at junior colleges, community colleges, vocational and technical schools.
Registered nurses (RNs) educate and treat patients and the public, providing emotional support to the patient and their family. Registered establish a care plan or contribute to the existing care plan for patients. Educational courses to become a registered nurse take two to four years to complete. With 2.5 million jobs, registered nurses are currently the largest health care occupation.

LPN and LVN Careers

LPNs and LVNs are generalists, which means they work in all health care areas. They may be employed in hospitals (26 percent), nursing care facilities (26 percent), physicians' offices (12 percent), clinics, outpatient care facilities, residential care facilities, Federal state and local government agencies and home health care agencies. In all states, an LPN must pass the NCLEX-PN licensing exam to get licensed. In 2006, LPNs held a total of 749,000 jobs in health care. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports LPN employment is anticipated to grow 14 percent in the next decade. As of May, 2006, LPNs enjoyed a median yearly salary of $36,550.

RN Careers

Careers in nursing are even more plentiful for RNs. An RN can choose her position based on his or her unique personal qualifications. RN jobs can be hand-on with patients, administrative with staff or educational with the public. Approximately 59 percent of RN positions are in hospitals. An RN may complete a bachelor's degree course for four years, an associate degree course for two to three years or a diploma program at a local hospital for three years. RNs must pass a licensing exam called the NCLEX-RN to obtain a nursing license. Licenses must be periodically renewed and continuing education is often required. The median annual salary enjoyed by RNs as of May, 2006 was $57,280.

What The Professionals Say

Nursing and medical professionals state there are many careers in nursing available and the opportunities are limitless. According to Barbara R. Heller, PhD and dean of the University of Maryland School of Nursing, “There are so many opportunities and challenges now. Nursing can attract the best and the brightest. All nurses are going to play a significant role in the changing health care environment, especially in an atmosphere in which prevention and health promotion is stressed.”
Dr. Linda N. Pugh, director of professional education at Hopkins' School of Nursing, states, “Nursing is such a wide open career right now. There are so many possibilities that weren't available even 10 years ago.”

Choosing A Nursing Career Path

There are so many careers in nursing, it is essential to choose a particular career path. Do you prefer to work with patients or paperwork? Are you most comfortable in large or small settings? Are there particular aspects of nursing that interest you most? These are questions to ask yourself as you consider the following careers in nursing.

Specialty Nurses

Registered nurses may decide to specialize in a certain health care area.

Acute care nurses take care of patients with serious illnesses and disabilities.
Maternity and labor nurses, delivery and neonatal nurses, women's health nurses and nurse-midwives take care of women's concerns.
Trauma and emergency nurses are specially trained to deal with emergency situations.
Public health nurses educate the public about ways to take better care of their health.
Pediatric nurses work with children.
Dermatology nurses specialize in skin care.
Holistic nurses treat body, mind and spirit with therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy and massage.
Psychiatric-mental health nurses work with patients who have mood and personality disorders.
Addictions nurses help patients in substance abuse programs.
Orthopedic nurses take care of patients with skeletal and muscular problems.
Home health care nurses provide at-home nursing care for patients.
Transport nurses give medical care to patients transported by air to the closest medical facility.
Oncology nurses provide cancer care.
Radiology nurses give care to patients getting diagnostic radiation procedures such as ultrasounds.

This is just a sampling of the specialized careers in nursing available today. There are literally dozens of specialties to choose from. Basically speaking, nursing specialties fall into four categories. Nurses can work in a particular setting offering a certain type of treatment. Nurses can also specialize in specific health conditions. Some nurses decide to work with certain organs or body systems. Finally, nurses may decide to deal with a designated population such as children or elderly.

Administrative Nurses

Administrative nurses can be in charge of other registered nurses, licensed practical nurses or a particular clinic, department or office. While some work may involves hands-on patient care, administrative nurses usually deal with policies, procedures and paperwork in an office-type setting. Registered nurses can pursue an M.S. or M.B.A. degree in nursing to qualify for top administrative positions.

Travel Nurses

Travel nurses do not work in one particular location. Rather, traveling nurses work at one of the understaffed hospitals in the country for three to six months then move on to the next assignment. Travel nurses are paid hourly wages, benefits and expenses for travel, rent and utilities.

Institutional Nurses

There are quite a few careers in nursing at institutions such as schools, colleges, camps, substance abuse treatment centers, correctional facilities, insurance company, shelters, state and municipal governments and in forensic and legal fields.
Today's careers in nursing are flexible and offer great growth opportunities. With more careers in nursing than ever before, it's a top career for a bright future.

ETHNIC MINORITY BACHELOR'S SCHOLARSHIPS IN ONCOLOGY NURSING

2010-01-04T08:32:00.000-08:00

Provide scholarships to ethnic minorities interested in careers in oncology nursing
Amount of Award: $2,000/year
Number of Awards: Varies
Duration of Award: 1 year
Deadline: January of each year
Contact Information:
Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Foundation
125 Enterprise Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
Phone: (412) 859-6100
Fax: (412) 859-6163
foundation@ons.org
http://www.ons.org/

DR. SHERI SMITH MEMORIAL GRANT (ADVANCED DEGREE, RESEARCH & PROGRAMS/MATERIALS)

2010-01-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

Provide scholarships to members of the WOCN interested in working on an undergraduate or graduate degree.
Amount of Award: $2,500/twice annually
Number of Awards: 1or 2/year
Duration of Award: 1 year
Deadline: May or November of each year
Contact Information:
WOCN National Office
15000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C
MT. Laurel, NJ 08054
Phone: (888) 224-9626
Fax: (856) 439-0525
http://www.wocn.org/Education/Scholarships

WOCN SOCIETY ADVANCED EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

2010-01-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

Provide scholarships to members of the WOCN interested in working on an undergraduate or graduate degree.
Amount of Award: Varies
Number of Awards: Varies
Duration of Award: 1 year
Deadline: May of each year
Contact Information:
WOCN National Office
15000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C
MT. Laurel, NJ 08054
Phone: (888) 224-9626
Fax: (856) 439-0525
http://www.wocn.org/Education/Scholarships

Summary Of WOUND HEALING

2009-12-25T17:22:00.000-08:00

The entire wound healing process is a complex series of events that begins at the moment of injury and can continue for months to years. This overview will help in identifying the various stages of wound healing.

I. Inflammatory Phase

A) Immediate to 2-5 days B) Hemostasis

Vasoconstriction
Platelet aggregation
Thromboplastin makes clot

C) Inflammation

Vasodilation
Phagocytosis

II. Proliferative Phase

A) 2 days to 3 weeks B) Granulation

Fibroblasts lay bed of collagen
Fills defect and produces new capillaries

C) Contraction

Wound edges pull together to reduce defect

D) Epithelialization

Crosses moist surface
Cell travel about 3 cm from point of origin in all directions

III. Remodeling Phase

A) 3 weeks to 2 years B) New collagen forms which increases tensile strength to wounds

C) Scar tissue is only 80 percent as strong as original tissue

Staffing in Nursing Servce

2009-12-20T05:11:00.001-08:00

Introduction:

In an organization always there are too many things to think about, too many factors to consider, too diversified knowledge required for solution for the unaided capacity one leader to encompass. So, the chief and other executives at head of major organization need help and the individual officer and units that render this help are known as staff officers of the units. Staffs is an expansion of the personality of the executive which means more eyes, more ears, and more hands to help the executive in forming and carrying out his plans.

Meaning of staffing:
Staffing is a selection, training, motivating and retaining of a personnel in the organization. Before the selection of the employees, we have to make analysis of the particular job, which is required in the organization, then comes the selection of personnel.

Actions involved in staffing:

1. Identifying the type and amount of service needed by agency client.
2. Determining the personnel categories that have the knowledge and skill to perform needed service measures.
3. Predicting the number of personnel in each job category that will be needed to meet anticipated service demands.
4. Obtaining, budgeted positions for the number in each job category needed to service for the expected types and number of clients.
5. Recruiting personnel to fill available positions.
6. Selecting and appointing personnel from suitable applicants.
7. Combining personnel into desired configurations by unit and shift.
8. Orienting personnel to fulfil assigned responsibilities.
9. Assigning responsibilities for client services to available personnel.

Staffing involves man power planning:
Man power planning may be defined as a strategy for the acquisition, utilization, improvement and preservation of the human resources of an organization. This involves ensuring that organization has enough of the right kind of people at the right time and also adjusting the requirements to the available supply.

The main objectives of man power planning include:

1. Ensuring maximum utilization of the personnel
2. Assessing future requirements of the organization
3. Determining the recruitment sources.
4. Anticipating from past records, i.e. resignations, simple discharge, dismissal and retirements.
5. Determining training requirements for management's development and organizational development.

Major activities of manpower planning:

* Forecasting future manpower requirements
* Inventorying, present manpower resources and analysing the degree to which these resources are employed optimally.
* Anticipating manpower problem by projecting present resources into the future and comparing them with forecast of requirement of requirement to determine their adequacy, both quantitatively, and qualitatively
* Planning the necessary program, recruitment, selection, training, development, motivation and compensation, so that future manpower requirements will be met.

Steps of manpower planning:

1. Scrutiny of present personnel strength.
2. Anticipation of man power needs.
3. Investigation of turnover of personnel
4. Planning job requirements and job descriptions

Steps of staffing:

1. Determine the number and types of personnel needed to fulfil the philosophy, meet fiscal planning responsibilities, and carryout the chosen patient care management organization
2. Recruit, interview, select, and assign personnel based on established job description performance standards.
3. Use organizational resources for induction and orientation
4. Ascertain that each employee is adequately socialized to organizational values and unit norms.
5. Use creative and flexible scheduling based on patient care needs to increase productivity and retention
6. Develop a program of staff education that will assist employees meeting the goals of the organization.

Philosophy of staffing:
Philosophy: a statement encompassing ontologic claims about the phenomena of central interest to a discipline, epistemic claims about how the phenomena came to be known, and what members of the discipline value.
There are three general philosophies of personnel management. The first is based on organizational theory, the second on industrial engineering, and the third on behavioural science.
The organizational theorist believes that

* Human needs are either so irrational or so varied and adjustable to specific situations that the major function of personnel management is to be pragmatic as the occasion demands.
* ? If the jobs are organized in a proper manner, he reasons, the result will be most efficient job structure, and the most favourable job attitudes will follow as a matter of course.

The industrial engineer believes that

* The man is mechanistically oriented and economically motivated and his needs are best met by attuning the individual to the most efficient work process.
* The goal of personnel management therefore should be to concoct the most appropriate incentive system and to design the specific working conditions in a way that facilitates the most efficient use of the human machine.
* By structuring jobs in a manner that leads to the most efficient operation, the engineer believes that he can obtain the optimal organization of work and the proper work attitudes.

The behavioural scientist believes that

* The behavioural scientist focuses on group sentiments, attitudes of individual employees, and the organizations' social and psychological climate.
* Personnel management generally emphasizes some form of human relations education, in the hope of instilling healthy employee attitudes and an organizational attitudes and an organizational climate which he considers to be felicitous to human values. He believes that proper attitudes will lead to efficient job and organizational structure.

Philosophy of staffing in nursing:

* Nurse administrators of a hospital nursing department should adopt the following staffing philosophy.
* Nursev administrators believe that it is possible to match employees' knowledge and skills to patient care needs in a manner that optimises job satisfaction and care quality.
* Nurse administrators believe that the technical andv humanistic care needs of critically ill patients are so complex that all aspects of that care should be provided by professional nurses.
* Nursev administrators believe that the health teaching and rehabilitation needs of chronically ill patients are so complex that direct care for chronically ill patients should be provided by professional and technical nurse.
* Nursev administrators believe that patient assessment, work quantification and job analysis should be used to determine the number of personnel in each category to be assigned to care for patients of each type( such as coronary care, renal failure, chronic arthritis, paraplegia, cancer etc)
* Nurse administratorsv believe that a master staffing plan and policies to implement the plan in all units should be developed centrally by the nursing heads and staff of the hospital.
* Nurse administrators believe the staffing plan details such asv shift- start time, number of staffs assigned on holidays, and number of employees assigned to each shift can be modified to accommodate the units' workload and workflow.

Objectives of staffing in nursing:

* Provide an all professional nursev staff in critical care units, operating rooms, labour and emergency room
* Provide sufficient staff to permit a 1:1 nurse- patient ratio for each shift in every critical care unit
* Staff the general medical, surgical, obstetricsv and gynaecology, paediatric and psychiatric units to achieve a 2:1 professional- practical nurse ratio.
* Provide sufficient nursing staff in general,v medical, surgical, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatric and psychiatric units to permit a 1:5 nurse patient ratio on a day and afternoon shifts and 1:10 nurse- patient ratio on night shift.
* Involve the heads of the nursingv staffs and all nursing personnel in designing the department's overall staffing program.
* Design a staffing plan that specifies how many nursing personnelv in each classification will be assigned to each nursing unit for each shift and how vacation and holiday time will be requested and scheduled.
* Hold eachv head nurse responsible for translating the department's master staffing plan to sequential eight weeks time schedules for personnel assigned to her/ his unit.
* Post time schedules for all personnel at least eight weeks inv advance.
* Empower the head nurse to adjust work schedules for unit nursing personnelv to remedy any staff excess or deficiency caused by census fluctuation or employee absence.
* Inform each nursing employee that requests for specificv vacation or holiday time will be honoured within the limits imposed by patient care and labour contract requirements.
* Reward employees for long termv service by granting individuals special time requests on the basis of seniority.

NORMS OF STAFFING( S I U- staff inspection unit)

* Norms: norms are standards that guide, control, and regulate individuals and communities. For planning nursing manpower we have to follow some norms. The nursing norms are recommended by various committees, such as; the Nursing Man Power Committee, the High-power Committee, Dr. Bajaj Committee, and the staff inspection committee, TNAI and INC. The norms has been recommended taking into account the workload projected in the wards and the other areas of the hospital.
* All the above committees and the staff inspection unit recommended the norms for optimum nurse-patient ratio. Such as 1:3 for Non Teaching Hospital and 1:5 for the Teaching Hospital. The Staff Inspection Unit (S.I.U.) is the unit which has recommended the nursing norms in the year 1991-92. As per this S.I.U. norm the present nurse-patient ratio is based and practiced in all central government hospitals.

Recommendations of S.I.U:

1. The norms for providing staff nurses and nursing sisters in Government hospital is given in annexure to this report. The norm has been recommended taking into account the workload projected in the wards and the other areas of the hospital.
2. The posts of nursing sisters and staff nurses have been clubbed together for calculating the staff entitlement for performing nursing care work which the staff nurse will continue to perform even after she is promoted to the existing scale of nursing sister.
3. Out of the entitlement worked out on the basis of the norms, 30%posts may be sanctioned as nursing sister. This would further improve the existing ratio of 1 nursing sister to 3.6. staff nurses fixed by the government in settlement with the Delhi nurse union in may 1990.
4. The assistant nursing superintendent are recommended in the ratio of 1 ANS to every 4.5 nursing sisters. The ANS will perform the duty presently performed by nursing sisters and perform duty in shift also.
5. The posts of Deputy Nursing Superintendent may continue at the level of 1 DNS per every 7.5 ANS
6. There will be a post of Nursing Superintendent for every hospital having 250 or beds.
7. There will be a post of 1 Chief Nursing Officer for every hospital having 500 or more beds.
8. It is recommended that 45% posts added for the area of 365 days working including 10% leave reserve (maternity leave, earned leave, and days off as nurses are entitled for 8 days off per month and 3 National Holidays per year when doing 3 shift duties).

Most of the hospital today is following the S.I.U.norms. In this the post of the Nursing Sisters and the Staff Nurses has been clubbed together and the work of the ward sister is remained same as staff nurse even after promotion. The Assistant Nursing Superintendent and the Deputy Nursing Superintendent have to do the duty of one category below of their rank.

Conclusion
The key to success of any hospital primarily depends upon its human resource than any other single factor.The core determinants of staffing in the hospital organization are quality, quantity and utilization of its personnel keeping in view the structure and process. The staffing norms should aim at matching the individual aspiration to the aims and objectives of the organization.

References:

1. Basavanthappa B T. Nursing administration. (Ist edn). Newdelhi: Jaypee brothers medical publishers (p) ltd; 2000.
2. Berkow S, Jaggi J& Fogelson R. Fourteen unit attributes to guide staffing. JONA.vol 37, no.3 mar 2007.

Nurses' Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation (NOSIE)

2009-12-20T05:03:00.000-08:00

The Nurses' Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation (NOSIE) is a highly sensitive ward behaviour rating scale. The NOSIE, developed by G.Honifeld and CJ Klett, is a 30-item scale designed to assess the behaviour of patients on an inpatient unit^{1, 2}. The scale was developed in 1965 and still used with a moderate degree of frequency. The advantage of the NOSIE is that it is quick, simple to administer, and may be used to assess patients that may be too ill to participate in more interactive rating scales including nonverbal individuals³.

The scale is frequently used to assess behaviours from baseline, and can be utilized to with most severely ill patients. The scale is frequently utilized to assess change in behaviours from baseline. The rating is based on continuous observation. The scale is rated according to the frequency of occurrence of the 30 designated behaviours during the previous three days. Interrater reliability has been generally demonstrated by interclass correlations for pairs of ratingof 0.73 to 0.74 for manifest and depressive psychosis³.

Nurses play an important part both in pursuing the goals of treatment and in assessing the change in individual patients. The NOSIE is a particularly well- developed rating scale whose content has been tailored to the task of assessing change in long stay patients and has been successfully used for this purpose in the US⁴.

The NOSIE was developed to involve nurse in the assessment of people with psychosis in hospital care. This and similar instruments recognized the crucial role played by nurses in the planning of health care. Since they spent all day with the people- in- care, they were in the best position to comment on the presence or absence of specific patterns of behaviour associated with mental disorder. In studies conducted in UK and America the scale has been found to be a reliable, brief and unambiguous tool for the assessment of people with enduring mental disorder, requiring mental disorder, requiring longer term care. The rating is quick and simple to use and, despite requiring little training of staff, the scale is reliable. ⁵

In a methodological study, validation of two rating scales, Modified Overt Aggression Scale (MOAS) and the Nurses' Observation Scale for In-patient Evaluation (NOSIE), which cover different aspects of psychopathology, were done by a group of Italian researchers. The scales were first translated into Italian and tested their validity and reliability in terms of inter-rater and internal consistency. For validity, both cases and controls were included: for the MOAS comparison was made between patients who were aggressive (cases) to those who were presumably non-aggressive (controls). For the NOSIE, cases were acute inpatients and controls were subjects with expected stable behaviour. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) was also administered to cases in order to test convergent validity. Either the NOSIE and/or MOAS scales were administered to 358 psychiatric inpatients. A subset of these patients (131 for the MOAS and 226 for the NOSIE) was also used to test the inter-rater reliability. Both scales showed good psychometric properties. The correlation coefficients between raters were much higher than 0.75 (for the NOSIE) or 0.90 (for the MOAS), while the discriminant power between cases and controls was confirmed for both scales and good concordance with BPRS was observed. The NOSIE showed good internal consistency for all domains except neatness. In general the MOAS showed better results than the NOSIE for all psychometric properties, although both scales are suitable for monitoring the behaviour and aggression of acute ward inpatients.⁶

A re-evaluation of the Nurses' Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation carried out to confirm that it remains reliable in a modern United Kingdom (UK) setting. The scale was tested for the degree of agreement between two individual raters and not, as in previous studies, between two pairs of raters. A total of 100 patients were each rated by two nurses, and a least-squares simple regression model was used to describe the average level of agreement between the pairs of ratings. The result showed that correlation in total scale scores was 0.76 (F = 136, P < 0.0001). The correlations for Negative and Positive Factors were 0.68 (P < 0.001) and 0.75 (P < 0.001), respectively. This study has shown that the Nurses' Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation retains satisfactory inter-rater reliability with current clinical populations. The researchers suggested that NOSIE remained as a useful tool for everyday clinical practice and a basis for meaningful communication between staff about patient status.⁷

A study evaluated the Nurses' Observational Scale for Inpatient Evaluation (NOSIE), the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and other measures as predictors of assaults that occurred during psychiatric hospitalization. On admission, the MMSE was administered to 335 acutely ill psychiatric patients, and diagnostic and demographic data were recorded. Immediately after admission, patients were rated by nurses using the NOSIE and by psychologists using the BPRS. Patients who committed assaults during hospitalization (N = 47) and those who did not were compared, and relationships between several variables and assaults were evaluated by t tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, chi square tests, and analyses of variance. Results showed a high score on the irritability factor of the NOSIE and failure to complete the MMSE correctly predicted the occurrence or non occurrence of assault 81 percent of the time. None of the other variables examined were significantly related to assaults, including total scores on the BPRS and MMSE, psychiatric diagnosis, and several demographic variables. Scores on a test of distress level shortly after admission and failure to complete the MMSE on admission can help the clinician predict who will later engage in an assault.⁸

The interrater reliability, temporal stability and factorial, convergent, discriminant and predictive validity of the Nurses Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation (NOSIE-30) were investigated in a heterogeneous group of psychiatric inpatients in the Netherlands (n = 179). Data in support of the scale's dimensional structure, discriminatory power and convergent validity are presented. Interrater reliability was satisfactory at global scale level. However, 3 subscales (irritability, psychosis and depression) were found to lack interrater reliability. Although temporal stability coefficients were high, large score changes are presupposed to show that pre- versus post therapy differences are attributable to real change rather than error. NOSIE-30 had limited predictive value⁹.

In a methodological study positive and negative a priori symptom scales were operationalized with the BPRS and the NOSIE. Acutely and consecutively admitted psychiatric patients (N = 247) were rated with these scales. Research questions dealt with the psychometric properties of the scales. It was found that the positive symptom scales had sufficient internal consistency; the negative scales did not. Diagnostic groups could be distinguished better with the positive symptom (PS) than with the negative symptom (NS) scales. The outcome of this research suggests that the positive and negative symptoms distinction is less meaningful in cross-sectional research, in which acute patients are rated, than in longitudinal research.¹⁰

The predictive value of the NOSIE, a ward behaviour rating scale, was investigated in a group of long-stay patients. After a follow-up period of 3 1/2 years, it was found that all NOSIE scales differentiated continuing in-patients from those discharged. Regression analysis showed that age and florid psychoticism carried most predictive weight.¹¹

The relation between the NOSIE (Nurses' Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation) and the BOP (Dutch version of the Stockton Geriatric Rating Scale) was studied in a psycho-geriatric sample. The results supported the hypothesis of a trans-cultural difference in the use of the NOSIE. Dutch nurses subsume personal neatness under social competence. Anglo-Saxons do not. The factor solution of the NOSIE, with the exception of the depression factor, was comparable with earlier Dutch research, and was interpreted as support for the notion, that the NOSIE is a reliable observation scale. The correlation between factor scales of the NOSIE and the BOP were significant, but of moderate range. This was taken to mean that there is limited convergent validity between the NOSIE and the BOP. A high correlation was found between the infirmity scale and other subscales of the BOP. The BOP as well as the NOSIE were able to purposefully distinguish diagnostic groups when an external criterion or mixed criteria were used. It was concluded that both the BOP and the NOSIE may supplement each other in psycho-geriatric research practice.¹²

Twelve Token Economy patients rated by nine staff members were followed for 1 year. Patients discharged within a year after the NOSIE-30 was administered had higher scores on Social Competence, Personal Neatness, Total Positive Factors, Total Patient Assets and a lower score on Total Negative Factors than patients who remained hospitalized. There were higher interrater reliabilities on subscales such as social competence, neatness, and irritability, and less agreement on subscales such as manifest psychosis and social interest. Sex differences found in the raters' perception of a patient behaviour indicated that male raters tend to be more tolerant of a patient's negative behaviours. Results suggest that the NOSIE-30 may have predictive utility. The NOSIE-30 can be a useful tool in staff training and in patient evaluation with a multidisciplinary approach¹³.

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