Author: vitawerks

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its pneumonia vaccine guidelines for infants and young children. HCPs and HCP students alike can expect a number of different facilities to tweak their practice policies as a direct result. Why are these changes so important, and what adjustments may have to be made for HCPs and facilities alike? This article breaks down everything you need to know about the CDC’s most recent suggestions.

What is pneumococcal disease?

“Pneumococcal disease” actually refers to a number of different conditions that are caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. This includes (but is not limited to) ear infections, sinus diseases, lung infections, and bloodstream infections. Most seriously, the bacteria can infect the structures surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. This makes the bacteria the leading cause of meningitis among children under the age of 5. Overall there are 100 strains of the bacteria, although only a handful of them actually cause the aforementioned infections.

What changes have been made to the CDC’s vaccine guidelines.

The pneumonia vaccine protects patients from the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria itself, and all its associated conditions. Per the CDC, pneumococcal disease is attributed to have caused 150,000 hospitalizations on an annual basis. In particular, certain groups of people are more vulnerable to these bacterial infections than others. This includes the elderly, adults with autoimmune conditions and (most relevant for our purposes) children and infants.

To protect younger populations, the CDC has expanded its scope. Now, it recommends that children under from 2 to 23 months of age are allowed to receive the PCV20 variant of the pneumonia vaccine. At the time of writing, these are the current CDC pneumonia vaccine recommendations:

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 13 (PCV13) — covers 13 serotypes

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 15 (PCV15) — covers 15 serotypes

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 20 (PCV 20) — covers 20 serotypes

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine 23 (PPSV23) — covers 23 serotypes

PPSV23 offers the most coverage but it is considered too dangerous for infants. Instead, children from 2 to 23 months can receive the vaccine with the second best coverage, as of June 2023.

What has changed for HCPs and HCP students?

Understandably, the new guidelines have changed the vaccine protocol for many healthcare providers. This is especially the case if you work in neonatal and pediatric departments, as well as outpatient pediatric clinics (just to name a few.) Though there are no unifying guidelines, HCPs can expect to make the following adaptations:

For one, the vaccine you are given heavily depends on your age, current condition, and Past Medical History. To ensure that children are given the proper and safe vaccine shots, HCPs may be asked to follow a certain procedure in order to collect a young patient’s Past Medical History from their parents or guardians. This includes, but is not limited to, allergies, recent illnesses, chronic illnesses and more. Nurses can also expect to inform and educate parents and guardians on the vaccine. This is usually done through providing vaccine information sheets that contain the most updated information regarding vaccination.

This is a crucial step in combating misinformation and assuaging any doubts a parental figure may have.  Finally, you have to remind and encourage parents for follow up shots or boosters, whenever an update arrives. Each hospital will have their different procedures in this regard, but it will be a necessary step, especially for HCPs who work in neonatal or pediatric settings.

To succeed in healthcare, a good resume will go a long way. Healthcare hiring is quick, competitive and oftentimes brutal. Your resume is your first impression with your prospective facilities, and it has to be a good one. Nowadays, companies simply will not spend a long amount of time looking at someone’s resume, before they have made their decision. They are looking for a precise list of qualifications and skills that best suits their current vacancies. Though it may differ on a case by case basis, most facilities look for a handful of core skills when they are enlisting LPNs, RNs, and CNAs. To get you started on writing an eye catching resume, this guide will highlight some of the most on-demand skills in the healthcare marketplace.

CNA

Communication skills

CNAs have to stay on the same page with their patients, supervisors and fellow HCPs. They need to coordinate their efforts while providing patients with both education regarding their condition and treatment, as well as emotional support during a potentially difficult time in their lives.  This requires a great deal of verbal, nonverbal and written communication skills. Not only should you be able to talk to them with compassion, you also need the empathy and awareness to read between the lines. A good CNA can note their mannerisms and tics, to figure out what they are not saying. From there they can adjust their approach to make the process more comfortable.

Attention to detail

Nonverbal tics are not the only details that CNAs must pay attention to. To be an effective CNA, you need to have an eye for detail no matter what you do. Nurse aides are expected to watch over their patients, and report any sudden changes in condition. Some of these shifts are immediately apparent while others are more subtle, and require both knowledge and a sharp eye to notice.

HCPs may also be asked to hand out medications. In these instances, they are given precise instructions by a physician as to what exactly they have to give out. As a mistake can be fatal at the worst of times, CNAs must pay attention and be sure they are providing the correct dosage, type of medication, and at the right times.

Checking vital signs

On a basic level, every HCP (let alone CNA) must know how to do this. Checking vital signs is the quickest way to monitor a patient’s current condition. You can tell a lot about their status from their breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and more. This is a crucial step with regards to evaluating the effectiveness of the current treatment plan, seeing if there are any sudden changes, and keeping track of the pace of their recovery.

LVN

Clinical skills

Compared to CNAs, LVNs take on a greater deal of clinical responsibility. It is important to list your clinical skills, to highlight your ability to thrive in such a setting. This includes monitoring vital signs, which was mentioned earlier, dressing patient wounds, drawing blood, operating IVs, administering catheters and more. LVNs take on a broad list of responsibilities in the medical workplace, and you need to make it clear that you are ready for them.

Adaptability

Healthcare is a volatile profession. From patient condition, to facility funding and workload, everything is subject to change at all times. This is why HCPs like LVNs have to be calm under pressure. They need to show a capacity to adapt with a changing environment, and stay calm in the middle of high pressure situations. In case they ask you about this point during an interview, be sure you have an example in your mind where you were presented with a high-stress situation, and handled it calmly and appropriately.

Time management

It is not uncommon for LVNs to be tasked with multiple cases at a time. You could be assigned a number of cases or tasks that seem impossible to finish within a single shift. That is why facilities want LVNs with the stamina and time management skills to multitask efficiently, while maintaining a certain level of productivity and composure. As with adaptability, be sure you can draw an example from your prior work experience of you displaying the kind of time management that is needed to succeed in healthcare.

RN

Critical thinking

Registered nurses take on greater responsibilities in clinical settings, compared to their LVN and CNA counterparts. They have a direct hand on creating care plans, evaluating their effectiveness, and making necessary adjustments. While important on all levels of healthcare, it is especially important that RNs possess the critical thinking needed to navigate complex situations and solve difficult medical problems that do not have immediate issues. It is one thing to possess medical knowledge, but it is a different matter entirely to apply it effectively.

Patient and family education

Though briefly mentioned with ‘communication,’ RNs are crucial with providing patient education. They inform both patients and patient families on their current condition and alternative treatment plans, in the simplest and most easy-to-understand terms possible. Medical jargon can be overwhelming at the best of times, so “merely’ simplifying things is a skill unto itself. In addition, RNs need to do all this without overwhelming their patients. Even if they have bad news, it must be given in the gentlest way possible.

EHR Proficiency

More and more, facilities are moving towards digital health records. This makes it easier for RNs to access vital patient information that is securely stored in a cloud server. This is why proficiency with Electronic Health Record (EHR) software will be on high demand in the coming years. You can talk about your general proficiency with EHR, but if you worked with certain EHR software in the past, do not be afraid to list them all on your resume.

Related: Interpersonal Skills: Definitions and Examples

Record-keeping

CNAs are often in charge of keeping records about patients. This will include writing things like the treatment your patient has received, when they received it and how they reacted to it. Being able to keep detailed records will allow doctors and nurses to provide the best care to patients.

In many work environments, you won’t be the only person taking care of a single patient. This makes it especially important that the records kept on that patient are accurate. It will help provide other caregivers with information such as what medications the patient is on. If you’re diligent and detailed in keeping records, this is a good skill to list on your CNA resume.

Explore Exciting RN Jobs, LVN Jobs, CNA Jobs Near You at VitaWerks!

On October 16, 2023, Gavin Newsom signed a law that raised the minimum wage of $25 per hour for nurses, for the next several years. Though some officials raised concerns about how it would affect the state budget, consensus was that the positives would far outweigh any perceived negative effects. Nurses risk their lives for the continued safety and health of the population, and they deserve a wage that lets them cover all their living costs. This coincides with a general movement towards increasing minimum wage across different cities in the country. In this new market, it is important for HCPs to maximize their value. Your work matters, and you want to be compensated for what you are worth.

Find shifts through VitaWerks

The VitaWerks app has provided rates at or exceeding $25/hr, long before the new regulations. LVNs, CNAs, and RNs can choose to book shifts with us and build their preferred work schedules. Whether you prefer part time or full time, and no matter what kind of facilities you prefer to work with, VitaWerks offers you the professional freedom to tailor your itinerary based on your preferences.

How does VitaWerks rates compare to the market?

While you create your perfect work arrangement, our staff is working 24/7 to secure the highest possible rates in all of California. We will pair you with per diem shifts and offers that dwarf most standard full time deals, even after the new minimum wage laws. Take your career to the next level, and sign up with VitaWerks now. Maximizing your earning potential has never been easier or more convenient.

Earn additional certifications

The demand for versatile HCPs is only increasing, each passing year. Facilities want nurses and nursing assistants with a wide range of skills and competencies. So much so that they are willing to increase their offers for HCPs who have additional certifications and credentials. Not only does this prove that they have the qualifications needed to contribute to a healthcare setting, it also displays a commitment towards bettering yourself.

What kind of certifications do I pursue?

Not every certification is equally sought after. Some job descriptions will explicitly list what certifications they want out of their applicants, while certain specializations/fields will prefer applicants with certain qualifications as a general rule. For example: if you want to work in critical care units, a certificate in Critical Care Registered Nursing (CCRN) is not required but highly recommended. Do your research and consult with other HCPs before you take up a role, and you should be fine.

Improve your education

Higher degrees do not necessarily coincide with higher compensation. However, they can lead you to better job opportunities, which may lead to better rates in the future. A registered nurse with an associate’s degree may be as valuable as one with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but most facilities will prioritize the latter. Several studies have even shown a correlation between the quality of HCP education and positive clinical outcomes. Investing in further education such as a Masters’ degree or a Bachelor’s degree may be a costly endeavor, but it will pay dividends if you approach it correctly.

How can I cover the costs?

As you already know, further nursing education is incredibly expensive. Covering the costs will be no easy task, but there are avenues that HCPs can consider. Most local programs are cheaper for in-state applicants, for example. HCPs can also apply for student loans, although it is important to do your research beforehand. You want to be sure that the loan providers have a good reputation and are acting in good faith. You also want to be sure you have the security to pay those loans over a prolonged period of time. These costs add up, but the increased job opportunities and associated rise in compensation will make up for this in the future. Just weigh the pros and cons, before committing yourself to furthering your education.

Explore Exciting Per Diem Nursing Jobs Near You at VitaWerks!

The future appears to be bright for physical therapist assistants. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects that employment for PTs by 15% between 2022 to 2032, which is significantly higher than the average growth rate. While they offer recovery care services, PT assistants observe patients, help move them around the facility, put them into their physical therapy apparel, and generally help operations run more smoothly. PT assistant courses are still plenty demanding and expensive, which makes online courses all the more appealing.

Remotely, students can access their material and attend lectures from anywhere, supplemented with some in-person classes and cynical rotations. This allows working students to continue holding your regular profession while you further your education and improve your career prospects. There are plenty of quality, accredited online Physical Therapy Assistant programs, and this article lists a number of the best ones.

Penn Foster College

Penn Foster’s online Physical Therapy Aide and Assistant Program is one of the best in the market. Students are prepared with the clinical experience, communications skills and knowledge needed to thrive in these roles. The course also offers students the flexibility to complete their classes at their own pace, in order to accommodate for their prior obligations.

Clarkson College

For students with associate’s degrees, Clarkson College is a godsend. The school allows these students with an associate’s degree or higher to join a transfer hybrid option, provided that they earned at least 35 credit hours from a recognized university. If this applies, you can join a three-semester online class with 4 to 5 weeks of on-campus practical lessons each semester.  After you are through with your online courses, the final program is all on-campus training.

South College

Based in Knoxville, TN, South College’s Bachelor of Science in Health Science (Pre-Physical Therapy) is the perfect online program for aspiring Physical Therapist Assistants. The curriculum covers all aspects of the role, including (but not limited to) physiology, biology, ethics, and leadership. Thankfully South College has a number of campuses based in cities like Orlando, Atlanta, Nashville, Asheville and Indianapolis, which gives students a number of ways they can fulfill the in-person requirements. If you want to further your education, applicants have the option to continue their education with the Doctor of Physical Therapy course.

St. Catherine University:

Guided by the principles of Catholicism, St Catherine University’s online Physical Therapist Assistant classes prepare students for the unique challenges of the role. Alongside your lessons and clinical rotations, students are made to learn the liberal arts in order to become well-rounded and ethically-strong healthcare professionals. You are not only taught how to become a Physical Therapist Assistant, but the social good and expectations associated with the role.

Rasmussen University-Wisconsin

Rasmussen University’s 18 month Physical Therapist Assistant Program is one of the most highly regarded in the nation. The curriculum mixes online classes with on-campus laboratory demonstrations, lectures, and exams. You can enroll, complete your classes remotely, and head to the school’s campuses in Florida or Minnesota for the aforementioned lab tests. The curriculum equips students with comprehensive lesson plans and practical applications of the knowledge gained from said lectures.

Go out there!

There is no “best university” that applies to every single student. The best course for you will depend on your location, preferences, and career goals. Do you want to study somewhere close to you, even with online lectures? Do you want to further your education soon after graduation, or will you save that for later down the road? Ultimately, it is up to you to do your research and find the best program for your situation. Just make sure you are enrolling in an accredited university with a proven track record for success, and you should do just fine.

Explore Exciting Per Diem Nursing Jobs Near You at VitaWerks!

Healthcare is dynamic, unpredictable, and constantly evolving. To succeed in this exciting industry, healthcare providers must be flexible and adaptable to the industry’s demands. These HCPS play a crucial role in filling staffing gaps across different states. However, the process of obtaining certification in various states can be intricate and requires careful navigation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the steps and considerations for becoming a certified traveling nurse.

1. Understanding the Basics of Traveling Nurse Certification

Before embarking on your journey as a traveling nurse, it’s essential to understand the fundamental requirements and processes. Start by ensuring you possess a valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in your home state. If your home state is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), consider obtaining a compact nursing license, which facilitates practicing in multiple states without the need for additional licenses.

2. Researching State-Specific Requirements

Every state has its own set of rules and regulations governing nursing licensure. A crucial step in the certification process is conducting thorough research on the specific requirements of the state where you intend to work. Luckily, you can find all your important information regarding requirements on a State Board of Nursing’s official website.

3. Verification of Education and Credentials

Many states may require verification of your education and credentials as part of the application process. To streamline this step, ensure that your nursing school sends official transcripts directly to the state’s nursing board. This verification process is critical for establishing your eligibility to practice as a nurse in the respective state.

4. Submitting the Application

The application process is a pivotal stage in obtaining certification as a traveling nurse. Access the application forms from the state nursing board’s website and complete them meticulously. Optimize your application by including relevant keywords related to your qualifications and the state you’re applying to. Certain facilities use automated processes to sift through resumes, which makes this an important step.

5. Background Check and Fingerprints

To ensure that HCPs meet a certain standard of moral character, you may be asked to submit to a criminal background check and a fingerprint scan. Do not be alarmed, and be prepared to comply with these mandates and follow the state’s guidelines for completing these steps. You can do your research online beforehand, to make sure you are aware of the specifics of the process.

6. Additional Examinations

Some states may impose additional examinations, such as state-specific exams or jurisprudence exams. Do your research on the nursing license exam in each state, and look for relevant review material to ensure you are sufficiently prepared.

7. Continuing Education

Continuing education is a cornerstone of nursing practice. States often have specific educational requirements for license renewal. Ensure you are aware of and meet these requirements to keep your certifications up-to-date. Google continuing education requirements by state to find accurate and relevant information regarding ongoing education expectations. Note that this only applies to states outside of the NLC.

8. Wait Patiently

After submitting your application, expect a waiting period as the state nursing board processes your documents. Use this time wisely by staying informed about the typical processing times in your desired state. It is also highly recommended that you submit your application and requirements in advance, to avoid any untimely delays or late fees.

9. Temporary Licenses

Some states offer temporary licenses, allowing you to start working while awaiting your permanent certification. The exact process will vary depending on where you want to work, so do your research to make sure whether or not this option is available to you at all.

10. Maintaining Multiple State Licenses

For those planning to work in multiple states outside the NLC agreement, maintaining active licenses in each location is imperative. Stay updated on license renewal requirements for each state to ensure a seamless transition between assignments..

11. Partnering with Nurse Staffing Agencies

Nurse staffing agencies can be valuable allies in the certification process for traveling nurses. These agencies specialize in placing healthcare professionals in diverse locations and often have experience navigating the intricacies of licensure requirements across states. Do sufficient research to make sure that the agency you are signing up with is reputable.

Conclusion:

Becoming a certified traveling nurse can be a convoluted process at times. Different boards of nursing have different laws, and you have to be aware of this. As long as you stay informed, prepare all your relevant documents, and avoid rushing anything, however, you should be fine.  Whether you’re a seasoned traveling nurse or just beginning your journey, staying informed and leveraging online resources will empower you to navigate the complexities of nursing licensure with confidence.

Read: Travel Nursing: 4 Things You Should Know

In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, the pursuit of advanced degrees and specializations is essential for nurses aiming to reach new heights in their careers. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a relatively new advanced degree. As a result, its merits and benefits are sometimes disputed. This article explores the pros and cons of pursuing a DNP, helping you decide if it’s worth the investment of time and resources.

What is a DNP?

Before we delve into the benefits and drawbacks, let’s clarify what a Doctor of Nursing Practice is. A DNP is a terminal degree in nursing that focuses on advanced clinical practice and leadership. It is designed to prepare nurses for roles in advanced clinical practice, healthcare leadership, and research. DNPs are often referred to as the “practice-focused” doctorate, distinguishing them from research-focused doctorates like the PhD in Nursing.

The Pros of Pursuing a DNP

Now, let’s take a closer look at the advantages of pursuing a DNP:

• Advanced Clinical Skills: One of the primary benefits of a DNP is the advanced clinical training it provides. DNP-prepared nurses are equipped with the highest level of clinical expertise, making them invaluable in patient care settings.
• Leadership Opportunities: A DNP can open doors to leadership positions in healthcare. If you aspire to lead teams, departments, or even entire healthcare organizations, a DNP is a valuable credential.
• Increased Earning Potential: With advanced education and expertise comes a potential increase in earning. DNP-prepared nurses often earn higher salaries, particularly in advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioners.
• In-Demand Roles: The demand for DNP-prepared nurses is on the rise, as they are well-suited for roles like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse executive, and nurse educator.
• Teaching Opportunities: If you have a passion for educating the next generation of nurses, a DNP can qualify you to teach in nursing programs at the university level.
• Contributing to Healthcare Improvement: DNPs are ideally positioned to drive positive changes in healthcare systems. By applying evidence-based practice and leadership skills, they can help enhance patient care and overall healthcare delivery.

The Cons of Pursuing a DNP

While there are numerous advantages to pursuing a DNP, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks:

• Time and Cost: DNP programs are often lengthy and can take several years to complete. Additionally, the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other related expenses can be substantial.
• Educational Prerequisites: To enroll in a DNP program, you generally need a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a related field. If you don’t have an MSN, you’ll need to complete additional education before pursuing a DNP.
• Balancing Work and Education: Combining a DNP program with full-time work can be challenging. You may need to reduce your work hours or take a leave of absence, which can affect your income.
• Location and Availability: DNP programs might not be available in all regions, so you may need to relocate or consider online programs, which can have their own set of challenges.
• Job Market Considerations: The job market for DNP-prepared nurses may vary by region. It’s essential to research the demand for DNP roles in your area before committing to the program.
• Return on Investment: Calculate the potential return on investment in terms of increased earning potential versus the cost and time spent on the DNP program.

Is a DNP Right for You?

As with everything, your circumstances will determine whether or not this is the degree for you. Does DNP line up with your priorities, career goals, and future outlook? Here are some factors to weigh:

• Personal Fulfillment: Do you have a passion for nursing and a desire to advance your knowledge and skills? If personal growth and fulfillment are important to you, a DNP might be worth considering.
• Career Aspirations: Consider your long-term career goals. If you aim to reach leadership positions, influence healthcare policies, or teach the next generation of nurses, a DNP can be a valuable stepping stone.
• Financial Preparedness: Assess your financial situation and the potential cost of a DNP program. Explore funding options, scholarships, or employer-sponsored programs to mitigate the financial burden.
• Work-Life Balance: Evaluate your ability to balance work, education, and personal life during the DNP program. Speak with mentors and colleagues who have pursued a DNP for insights into their experiences.
• Location: Determine if DNP programs are available in your region and whether you are willing to relocate if necessary.

Tips To Improve Your DNP Journey

You do not want to jump into the journey to become a DNP headfirst. Consider taking these preparations on your way to furthering your nursing education:

• Financial Planning: Create a budget and explore financial aid options, scholarships, and employer support.
• Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to balance your work, education, and personal life.
• Networking: Connect with DNP-prepared professionals and mentors in your field to gain insights and support.
• Job Market Research: Stay updated on the job market for DNP roles in your area and seek out opportunities that align with your goals.
• Continuous Learning: Embrace the idea of lifelong learning and stay committed to enhancing your skills and knowledge throughout your DNP journey.

Conclusion

In the pursuit of a Doctor of Nursing Practice, careful consideration of the pros and cons is essential. While a DNP can open doors to advanced clinical practice, leadership positions, and increased earning potential, it also comes with challenges such as time and cost.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a DNP should align with your career aspirations, personal goals, and financial readiness. By making an informed choice, you can embark on a fulfilling journey that contributes to your professional growth and the improvement of healthcare delivery.

Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice worth it? The answer varies from one individual to another, but with the right mindset, preparation, and dedication, a DNP can be a valuable investment in your nursing career.