Immunizations

As student nurses, we must be immunized for diseases such as Hepatitis A and B, chicken pox, and the mumps in order to attend clinical. It is also highly recommended that we get the flu shot. In fact, not receiving the flu shot may jeopardize our ability to work in a healthcare institution and result in failing our clinical placements. I do not want to get the flu shot because I feel that it is dangerous and loaded with chemicals that are extremely damaging to the human body. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that receiving the flu shot will prevent the flu entirely. It is unfortunate that if given the option, students will often yield and get the flu shot to prevent potential failure, even if it contradicts their personal beliefs.

Street Nurses

Street nurses have very different nurse/client interactions than nurses who work in more conventional settings like a hospital or clinic. Street nurses provide care to vulnerable populations of all ages including; the homeless, intravenous drug users, prostitutes, and the mentally and/or physically disabled. They provide care for people in various states of health, illness, and disease. Many suffer from drug addiction. With consent, street nurses draw blood samples directly on the street. These samples are then screened for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis A, B, and C, and Syphilis. Information and education about the transmission of disease and practicing safe injection practices will prevent the spread of communicable blood-borne diseases and save many lives.

Community Health Nursing

Community health nursing is a very important and interesting area in the nursing profession. I am beginning to feel that this is an area that I would like to pursue when I enter the workforce as a registered nurse. I believe that having the opportunity to help people in marginalized populations, such as homeless or drug addicted individuals, would be a deeply rewarding and gratifying experience. It is imperative that populations at risk have access to proper food, clothing, shelter, and health care. Unfortunately, many within this community do not have access to these resources and often feel overlooked and shunned by society.

Street Nursing