To work or not
I've been a RN since 1994. I have a lot of diverse experience on the field, having worked above a full time schedule for 20 years of that at multiple facilities and areas. My base training is ICU, that and ER is where the bulk of my experience is. I've worked several different ICU disciplines with the bulk in cardiovascular and pulmonology. I am trained, skilled, and quite frankly, good at it. I've provided care for ARDS patients during my career as an RN. That is what this virus leads to in some patients and what is causing those on ventilators to need them. I previously posted about ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) but here is a link https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ards/symptoms-causes/syc-20355576
I haven't worked as a nurse since last April. The private hospital I was working at went out of business and shut the doors. I had the second knee replacement at that time and decided to take at least six months off of work. Things have gone well for me and I am considering not going back to nursing at all.
Now this virus comes along. The state sent out e-mails to licensed professionals concerning our areas of experience and availability. I was already thinking about what I will do if this gets bad enough that I think I'm needed.
I am not interested in working out of our region but am thinking if it gets bad and my services are really needed I would go help at an area hospital. I have spoken to some local doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists I know and a couple of nurse practitioners that work in local clinics. The number of infected people in our area is climbing, however most are quarantining themselves and recuperating at home. Currently those needing hospitalization isn't overloading the systems and hasn't yet reached the levels we often see with other illnesses. Of course it is still going on. The flu season is still going on but hasn't been as bad as some past years. Understand the system some years get way more serious patients than other years, this year's flu season hasn't been that bad.
I am thinking of updating my information with a couple of medical staffing agencies as if any hospitals gets overtaxed that is where they will look to for help. That way I could go where I am needed rather than be on call at a hospital that may or may not end up needing me.
I haven't worked as a nurse since last April. The private hospital I was working at went out of business and shut the doors. I had the second knee replacement at that time and decided to take at least six months off of work. Things have gone well for me and I am considering not going back to nursing at all.
Now this virus comes along. The state sent out e-mails to licensed professionals concerning our areas of experience and availability. I was already thinking about what I will do if this gets bad enough that I think I'm needed.
I am not interested in working out of our region but am thinking if it gets bad and my services are really needed I would go help at an area hospital. I have spoken to some local doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists I know and a couple of nurse practitioners that work in local clinics. The number of infected people in our area is climbing, however most are quarantining themselves and recuperating at home. Currently those needing hospitalization isn't overloading the systems and hasn't yet reached the levels we often see with other illnesses. Of course it is still going on. The flu season is still going on but hasn't been as bad as some past years. Understand the system some years get way more serious patients than other years, this year's flu season hasn't been that bad.
I am thinking of updating my information with a couple of medical staffing agencies as if any hospitals gets overtaxed that is where they will look to for help. That way I could go where I am needed rather than be on call at a hospital that may or may not end up needing me.
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I understand it to be a difficult decision. (Vastly increasing your level of exposure.) Having said that, it sounds like with your particular skill set and experience, you would be a huge asset.
I am sure when it comes time and should it become necessary, you will make the right decision.
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A buddy of mine texted me that they’re offering $105 per hour in NY for out of state nurses. I haven’t verified but that’s a hellova salary. Not sure if it’s worth the risk though... 0 -
My daughter in law is a RN at a OB/GYN office owned by a local hospital.The office was closed due to the virus and she was laid off along with several other RNs.Management told them there were too many nurses working at the hospital already. 0 -
Tough decision...Good luck! 0 -
Risky business 0 -
Tough call and you already know what you will do if NEEDED. Hell they are laying off RN's in the two hospitals here because of elective procedures being cancelled. 0 -
This pandemic is a war and those on the front lines are all of our medical personnel. From doctors, nurses, lab techs, etc., right down to medical facility janitors (which are called maintenance people now days). All are under the epitome of stress and in direct harms way. I have close family in this and pray everyday that they get their job done and avoid sickness to themselves and their families at home.
Scout, I can understand your dilemma with this and know you will weigh everything in your life in deciding what to do. I wish you all the best whatever you decide!0
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