Life In Scrubs

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Things to DO and NOT DO to be the best co-worker. Ways to connect with your co-workers, support them and feel supported in return!   Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Simple as it may be, treating your co-workers how you want to be treated goes a long way!  In this episode, we’re sharing qualities we see in our favorite co-workers that we emulate. Of course there are a couple examples we’ve seen too that we want to make sure we DON’T do! In a career where teamwork is so important, this episode is a great reminder of how to intentionally show up to work, and qualities you want to look for when you’re applying for jobs. We’d love to hear what qualities you think make an amazing co-worker! Shoot us a DM on Instagram @lifeinscrubspodcast   02:00 What makes you that “work bestie” co-worker you can depend on? 04:30 How to be approachable and help as a true team player. 07:15 Don’t be a “lone wolf” nurse. 10:00 When do you ask for help from your co-workers? 14:40 How do you plan and cover your breaks? 19:00 How we prep for a smooth shift change. 21:30 Say no to gossip! 22:40 Are the nurses on your unit flexible with switching shifts? 26:15 How to create relationships with other nurses on your unit! 29:00 You are not above any tasks!

In This Episode, We Talk About: WHY apply to a DNP program and how to choose the right one. Similarities and differences between nursing school and DNP school! Why Courtney is passionate about getting her DNP and her best advice for pursuing your career goals!   Resources + Links:   Follow Courtney on Instagram | @court.nurse   Check out our last episode with Courtney: Episode 63 Breaking Down the Stigma Surrounding Death with Hospice RN Courtney   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Let’s chat all things DNP! We’re excited to have Courtney back on the podcast to get her tips and behind the scenes look at her journey of navigating DNP school! If you are thinking about applying for DNP school, or just curious about the benefits and what the process looks like, Courtney isn’t holding back! She shares candid advice from things she doesn’t like about her DNP program, how to find the right one for you, and how to not let negativity and naysayers get in the way of pursuing your goals. We loved getting to have Courtney back, and learn from her and the reasons she personally decided to get her DNP. Tag is on Instagram with your favorite moment from this episode, and don’t forget to check out our first episode with Courtney in the resources section!   01:00 What have you been up to since we recorded last!? 05:00 What led you to the DNP program? 10:15 Do most programs offer a DNP program? 14:15 The shift we’re seeing in what degrees nurses need to get their dream job. 16:20 What is the difference between a PhD and a DNP? 19:15 Frustrations Courtney has experienced in her DNP program, and tips for choosing the right program. 23:40 What tips would you give someone thinking about going into a DNP program? 26:00 How common is it to have to find your own preceptors for clinicals? 31:00 Benefits of getting your DNP. 37:15 Tips for studying and preparing for your boards. 45:00 Where can we connect with you? 47:00 Don’t let negativity stop you from pursuing your career goals!

In This Episode, You Will Learn: The top Pros and Cons of travel nursing! What Matt and Peter wish they knew before becoming travel nurses. Experiences they’ve been able to have in and outside of work as they’ve traveled!   Resources + Links:   Follow Cup of nurses on Instagram | @cupofnurses Follow Frontline Warriors on Instagram | @wearefrontlinewarriors   Check out Cup of Nurses Travel Checklist  http://cupofnurses.com/best-travel-nursing-checklist/   AND Cup of Nurses NCLEX Study guide  https://cupofnurses.com/nclex-study-guide/   Find more resources on their website Cup of Nurses https://cupofnurses.com/ Frontline Warriors https://frontlinewarriorsclub.com/ Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Is travel nursing for you? What experience do you need to have before becoming a travel nurse? In this episode, we’re chatting with Matt and Peter from @cupofnurses about all things travel nursing! Matt and Peter both share their experiences, what they wish they knew before becoming travel nurses, and advice for those that want to take on the adventurous life of a travel nurse! They’re sharing the Pros, Cons, and where some of their favorite assignments have been. Matt and Peter also share why they started Cup of Nurses, and how that has led to creating Frontline Warriors! Tune in to this episode to see if travel nursing might be right for you, and make sure to check out all the links we have listed because there are some great resources!   01:40 What led you to nursing, and eventually becoming travel nursing? 04:30 How has the pandemic changed travel nursing? 07:00 For nurses interested in travel nursing, how should they get started? 09:00 The top 3 Pros of travel nursing. 12:20 Do you see travel nurses who have kids and families, or are most travel nurses single? 13:40 Our top 3 Cons of travel nursing. 17:00 Do you usually take a break in between assignments or go directly from one to another? 18:30 How much experience do you think nurses should have before traveling? 23:00 Have you had any contracts you’ve extended because you’ve loved the hospital? 26:20 What is something you wish you knew about travel nursing before getting into it? 29:20 Having experienced different hospitals, what do you wish hospitals everywhere implemented? 34:00 What inspired you to start your podcast Cup of Nurses?35:40 The beginning of Frontline Warriors.

This week we're throwing it back to one of our most popular episodes, Code Blue! In this episode, you will learn: What are the different roles in the code team? How do you know which role is best for you? What happens at your hospital after the code? We’ve all watched dramatic scenes on TV shows of Code Blue’s, but is it actually like they depict on TV? In this episode, Kristen and Maddi give us a real look at what Code Blues are like from their personal experiences! Maddi, as a CVICU nurse, is part of the team that gets assigned to respond to Codes and Rapids! As part of the code team Maddi breaks down the different roles as they respond to these emergencies, and both Kristen and Maddi talk about the most underrated roles of those helping during the code! Tune in to hear all about codes, rapid responses, and Kristen’s first time being thrown into a Code Blue as a nursing student! 00:40 Are Code Blue’s actually like they depict on TV shows? 02:00 What was your first experience with a code blue? 06:20 What are the different roles in the code team? 08:25 How do you know which role is best for you? 09:30 The most underrated jobs of everyone helping during the code! 13:50 What is the code team like at your hospital? 15:30 How has the code team changed because of COVID? 16:40 What do you bring to the code? 18:15 If you’re the nurse that called the code for your patient, what do you do when the code team arrives? 20:00 What happens at your hospital after the code?  23:20 What about calling rapid responses? 26:40 Does it become easier over time of running to codes and rapids? ………………………….. Connect with us on Instagram: @lifeinscrubspodcast https://www.instagram.com/lifeinscrubspodcast/?hl=en Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too! @thenursekristen  https://www.instagram.com/thenursekristen/?hl=en @themaddiward   https://www.instagram.com/themaddiward/?hl=en

In This Episode, You Will Learn: What a clinical quality nurse specialist is. What the day to day of a clinical quality nurse specialist looks like. The pros and cons of working from home. Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: How do you know if working from home is right for you? Today, Kristen is flying solo in order to answer your questions about working a remote position as a clinical quality nurse specialist! First, we’ll dive into what a clinical quality nurse specialist is, including what they do, what they can expect from patients, and what their daily routine looks like. Then, it’s time to explore the pros and cons of working from home. What does Kristen miss about working in the hospital? Is it possible to achieve work life balance? How and where can you find remote positions for yourself? If you’re curious about remote work or uncertain if it would suit you, this episode may help you find the answer you’re looking for! 00:40 Why am I flying solo today? 02:40 What is my background in pharmacy? 05:55 What is a clinical quality nurse specialist, and what do they do? 08:30 Breaking down pulmonary hypertension WHO groups. 10:20 What should you expect from patients as a clinical quality nurse specialist? 13:05 What are the three different medication pathways we use? 15:05 What does my day to day look like? 21:50 How much time & money do you save when you don’t have to commute? 22:50 Why do I prefer working day shift? 23:50 How does remote work give you way more flexibility? 25:00 How can you increase your productivity? 26:05 Finding your work life balance. 27:00 Why is working from home so comfortable? 29:15 How does it help promote eating healthier? 30:50 Is there good pay in remote work? 32:00 What skills do you use (and lose) from remote work? 33:10 How much socialization do you miss out on while working from home? 34:30 Is it difficult finding an office space at home? 36:15 What are the cons of scheduling? 37:50 Combatting the lack of movement & exercise. 39:25 How can you keep yourself disciplined? 41:25 How do you know if working from home is right for you? Where can you find remote positions?

In This Episode, We Chat About: A BIG milestone we just crossed here with the podcast! Updates on work recently! Common myths about nursing from simple misconceptions to the absurd! Resources + Links:   Create your travel nurse profile with Fusion Marketplace   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Let’s debunk some myths and go on a tangent about Grey’s Anatomy to kick off SEASON SIX! Whether this is your first or 66th episode you’re joining us for, we are so glad you are here! We just crossed 200K downloads and are so excited and proud of this amazing community! In this episode we’re debunking myths from misconceptions about what schedules look like, to thoughts about nursing that are outright wrong! For the listener who is thinking about nursing as their career, the one in nursing school, or the veteran…we’d love to hear which of these myths resonated with you the most, and if you have any others we didn’t cover! Tag us on Instagram with your favorite debunked myth!!   01:30 *Spoiler* we just hit 200k downloads!!! 03:00 How work has been for Maddi! 05:40 Participating in donor walks. 08:00 Work updates from Kristen!11:30 What are the differences in nursing degrees? 14:40 Nursing is “only for women”. 17:00 Is it easy to find a job because there is a nursing shortage? 19:15 What nursing jobs are out there outside of working bedside at a hospital? 22:50 Do you think everyone should start by working in Med Surg? 24:20 Do you work three 12 hour shifts in a row? 27:50 Our thoughts on whether nursing is a safe job. 31:00 Can nurses make medical decisions on their own? 34:15 “People become Nurses because they couldn’t become Doctors.” 36:00 A little chat about Grey’s Anatomy.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Advice for nursing students and new grads, including NCLEX prep, applying for new jobs, and finding the right specialty. Our favorite and least favorite classes & semesters. Dealing with aggressive patients and a fear of failure. Building community and support with your unit.   Resources + Links: Create Your Fusion Market Place Travel Profile   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: You asked, we answered! For our final episode of Season 5, we’re hosting another Q+A with questions sent in by our community of viewers! If you’ve ever wondered how we form connections with our units, find a work life balance, or what the future of the healthcare shortage looks like, we’ll be covering all of that and more. We have tips and advice for nursing students and new grads alike, so no matter where you are in your nursing journey, you’ll be able to learn something new. How do you deal with a fear of failure? What were our favorite and least favorite classes? How do you know when you’ve found the right specialty for you? Join us as we send off Season 5 together! 0:00:40 Welcome to Season 5’s Q+A! 0:03:50 What is the worst physical encounter you’ve had with a patient? 0:07:30 How can you keep yourself safe and secure if you feel threatened? 0:09:00 What are the pros and cons of working from home? 0:12:00 What are the most effective community builders you’ve used with your co-workers? 0:16:20 Why is it important to build community with your peers? 0:17:15 What units did you not enjoy, and which units did you enjoy? 0:21:35 Advice for NCLEX prep. 0:25:55 What advice do you have for new grads scared about failing in their calling? 0:27:55 Why is it better to be flexible instead of pushing yourself? 0:31:15 Do you have any med surg study tips?  0:33:55 How should new grads look for new jobs? 0:36:25 Will there be an end to healthcare shortages soon? 0:40:00 Ranking our nursing school classes from worst to best. 0:43:25 How were our summer classes? 0:46:10 Have you done an episode dealing with death? 0:47:15 Where do you see yourselves and the podcast in five years? 0:50:10 How do you get into ICU as a new grad? 0:52:35 Do you still enjoy nursing after COVID? 0:57:00 How do you know when you’ve found the right specialty for you? 1:01:55 Are you ready for Season 6?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Advice and helpful resources for cancer prevention. How to form healthy habits for a healthy lifestyle. Tips for night shift nurses, new grads, and nurses interested in non-bedside jobs. Resources + Links: Follow Becky on Instagram | @rstrn   Get involved at https://nurseshealthstudy.org/   Learn more about cancer prevention at https://www.aicr.org/   Check out these other organizations, studies, and resources: American Cancer Society: www.cancer.org for screening information Oncology Nursing Society: www.ons.org for navigator resources and core competencies!  Nurses Health Study: https://nurseshealthstudy.org/  Lots of publications from their data on the site. Here is a link to join the new study: https://www.nhs3.org/   Indeed.com also has some good resources for helping evaluate/thinking through next steps in finding a job you’ll enjoy.   Check out these articles: Center for Disease Control and Prevention:  Night shift and cancer risk https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2021/04/27/nightshift-cancer/   Moving past fear, Donna Cardillo: https://donnacardillo.com/articles/movingpastfear/  Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen  Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi  Show Notes: How can we create and promote healthier lifestyles? This week we have a new guest joining us: Becky Trupp, an oncology nurse navigator from the Seville Cancer Screening and Prevention Center! With 32 years of experience under her belt, Becky will share her wisdom on cancer prevention and healthy living for nurses just like you. We’ll cover what you need to know about cancer prevention so you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Then, we’ll go over useful tips for night shift nurses to look out for, as well as advice for those interested in getting involved in non-bedside jobs. We’ve got your key to a healthier future right here! 00:40 Meet Becky Trupp, an oncology nurse navigator from the Seville Cancer Screening and Prevention Center! 01:30 How did you get to where you are today? 04:20 Opening yourself up to new possibilities. 07:30 Where did you go after you were let go from your high risk job? 09:10 How have your experiences with past jobs helped you in the present? 10:15 What do you do at your center? 11:15 What do you think is most important for nurses to know about cancer prevention? 14:50 How does working the night shift affect nurses? 16:35 What are some resources you recommend for nurses? 18:10 What tips do you have for night shift nurses to take care of themselves? 20:55 Forming small habits to create big changes in your lifestyle. 24:15 How can someone get involved in more non-bedside jobs? 27:20 Would you recommend a new grad have experience before going into a nurse navigation position? 31:25 Where can people look for more information on cancer prevention?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: A new perspective on hospice that most people don’t know about. Advice for new nurses in hospice & nurses interested in going into end of life care. The difference between critical care and end of life care. How to start creating content for an online space.   Resources + Links: Connect with Courtney on Instagram | @court.nurse   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: We all know working hospice can get a bad rep, but is any of it true? In today’s episode, we’ll be breaking down the stigma and beliefs surrounding end of life care with hospice RN, Courtney! Courtney has a background in oncology and ICU and is working towards graduating with her DNP. She’ll give her perspective of hospice care as well as share expert advice for new nurses starting in or interested in hospice. Then, we’ll touch on the issues with glorifying the struggle of nursing life, how to start prioritizing your own health, and tips for creating online content. Get ready to rethink everything you know about the life of a hospice nurse with @court.nurse! 00:40 Say hello to our friend, Courtney, a hospice nurse here to discuss end of life care! 02:00 Who is Courtney? 05:05 What was your first experience with end of life care? 06:35 How did you find out that ICU wasn’t for you? 07:45 Did you want to know what you wanted to do after graduation? 08:55 What is the difference between critical care and end of life care? 12:30 The stigma surrounding hospice. 13:40 As a hospice nurse, what terminology do you use with patients’ families? 16:55 Why is it important for healthcare workers to be transparent about death? 19:05 What advice do you have for newer nurses having to deliver news? 21:40 What do most people not know about hospice? 25:35 Tips for nurses interested in going into hospice. 29:45 Where do you recommend starting? 32:15 What options are there working outside a hospital setting? 34:55 Why should we stop glorifying the struggle? 38:45 What is DNP? 40:40 What made you build an Instagram? 42:45 How do you create your content for Instagram? 45:45 TikTok versus Instagram. 48:20 How do you get started on TikTok and Instagram? 52:00 Challenging the stigma of Botox, fillers, and other cosmetic surgery.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Our health & work updates. What ECMO is and how to train for it. What resources we recommended for nurses working in the field.   Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: What resources do real, working nurses in the field use and depend on? This episode will be going over our life updates, including what’s new with our health and work, before we share some of our favorite nursing resources! We also talk about ECMO, how to train for it, our experiences with it, and what you should know before going into it. If you’re a post-grad nurse curious about ICU, or if you’re a nursing student planning for the future, we’ve got your answers! Join in today and pick up some new resources we know you’ll love to use! 00:40 What are our health updates? 02:30 How did we celebrate Nurses Week? 05:00 What did our hospitals do to celebrate? 08:45 What is ECMO? What was Maddi’s first experience working with it? 11:35 How do you train for ECMO? 15:00 What were you most nervous about when running ECMO? 18:15 Studying for the CCRN. 20:20 What is new with Kristen and her work? 25:40 What nursing resources does Maddi recommend? 28:35 What nursing resources does Kristen recommend? 31:10 What is coming up next?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Our trip to NurseCon at Sea, including what we did, our favorite things, and what we would have changed about it. Three things every nurse needs to hear right now. Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: We’re back and ready to dive into a new episode, just in time for Nurses Week! Today, we’re covering our trip to NurseCon at Sea and the three things every nurse needs to hear. First, we’ll recap our incredible experiences at NurseCon and our top stories we can’t wait to share with you. What did we do there? What were our favorite things? What would we have changed? Then, we’ll go over three important things we think every nurse should hear. We have an exciting episode for you, so come and join in on the fun! 00:40 Our NurseCon at Sea recap! 02:40 How was our live episode at NurseCon? 03:20 What happened to our live event recording? 05:25 Staying up for 37 hours. 10:20 What did we do after boarding? 13:15 What makes NurseCon so fun? What can you do there? 16:50 What was Kristen’s favorite part of the trip and what would she have changed about it? 18:15 What was Maddi’s favorite part of the trip and what would she have changed about it? 20:40 How was the staffing at NurseCon? 23:05 What are three things every nurse needs to hear? 24:10 Is it okay to change your mind? 29:35 Why are you more than just a profession? 32:10 What helps you refill your cup? 34:50 Taking the time to appreciate you.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: How to prep for nursing school. The tools and resources you’ll need to stay organized and plan ahead. How to enjoy yourself while in nursing school.   Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Today, we’re taking you to school! This episode is all about helping you prepare for nursing school before you go. We’ll be sharing our do’s and don’ts of nursing school prep, so you can head into the first semester ready to succeed and achieve! We talk about avoiding procrastination, planning ahead, setting goals, saving money, and more. You won’t want to miss out on the advice and tips you should know from experienced nurses who have been there and done that! Tune in and find out how to prep yourself, rock your classes, and most importantly of all: enjoy the journey! 00:40 What is new with us? 04:00 Going to NurseCon at Sea! 06:05 What was Maddi’s new experience over the weekend? 08:50 How do you prep for nursing school? 09:35 Why is procrastination your biggest enemy? 12:00 How much money should you spend on required items? 14:50 Setting semester goals for yourself. 17:10 How can you work on skills more efficiently? 19:10 What kind of rewards can you give yourself after you succeed? 20:40 What tools do you need to plan ahead? 25:25 Why should you do your research? 28:40 Taking the time to relax while you can. 32:00 What is the most important thing to remember?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: What integrative medicine is, and what makes it so important to the future of health and wellness. Tips for new grads and nurses interested in getting into integrative medicine. Why we should focus on making ourselves and our health a priority. Resources + Links: Create your Fusion Market Place Travel Nurse Profile! Connect with Heather on Instagram | @naturally_heather Follow @thatnurseheather on Tiktok! Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too! Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen  Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: What can you do to make your health a priority? Today, our guest is an integrative nurse, Heather, who is here to share her knowledge and expertise on all things integrative medicine! We’ll go over what integrative medicine is, what its benefits are, and how it can help take your health to the next level. What does the life and duties of an integrative nurse look like? What makes preventative treatments and self-care so important? What advice does she have for new grads and nurses interested in integrative medicine? It’s time to start living a healthier life for a healthier you! 00:40 Say hello to Heather, an integrative medicine nurse in NYC! 03:35 What was it like working as a new grad in New York during the pandemic? 07:10 How did you get into integrative medicine, and what is it? 08:45 Where did you first hear about integrative medicine? 11:10 Why are preventative treatments so important? 14:25 The day-to-day of an integrative medicine nurse. 18:20 What does your practice in NYC look like? 20:00 How do you approach remedies at your practice? 22:00 What tips and advice do you have for someone interested in integrative medicine? 23:40 How much experience does someone need to get into integrative medicine? Into IV? 26:15 The benefits of having experience. 28:00 How can nurses start to live a healthier lifestyle? 31:25 Why should we make ourselves a priority? 32:40 What are the four pillars of health? 36:10 What are your favorite products that you think nurses can benefit from? 39:00 What products do you like from an integrative health perspective? 42:40 What parting words do you have for the listeners?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: How to live in and appreciate the now. Taking your own path at the right pace for you. The importance of being positive and staying open-minded. Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Are you feeling restless? Can’t stop thinking about what comes next? This episode is your wake up call! Today, we want to focus on the now and why it’s so important to live in, appreciate, and embrace! We all know how important planning for the future and setting goals are, but sometimes we can forget to live in the present when that’s all we do. We’ll be talking about taking things at your pace, enjoying the little moments, and staying open-minded, so we can start living presently to enjoy life fully! The journey is just as important as the destination, so come and join us in the now! 00:40 Where is today’s special recording location? 01:50 Kristen’s new job and our busy schedule updates. 02:55 What did we do over the weekend?  05:50 How can we live in the now? 07:30 What happens when we focus too much on the future? 11:00 How can we start living presently? 13:35 Why do we always need to get to the next step? How can we get out of that mindset? 15:25 Do things happen for a reason? 18:45 How to avoid the negative and find the positive. 20:50 Why is it important to be open-minded? 23:40 The sign you’ve been waiting for.

In This Episode, We Talk About: Nikki’s experience diving into being an ER nurse in Manhattan as a New Grad. Each of our experiences navigating the pandemic, and what that was like in New York City. Advice for New Grads considering going directly into a specialty unit. How creating social media content has given us a sense of community and gratitude for nursing!   Resources + Links:   Check out Nikki’s TikTok videos | @nikkialvarezz Follow Nikki on Instagram | @nikkialvarezz   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Whether you were navigating the pandemic as a seasoned nurse, new grad, or nursing student these past two years we’ve all worked and learned through uncharted territory. In this episode we’re excited to welcome our very first ER nurse on the podcast, Nikki Alvarez! Nikki graduated nursing school in 2019 and dove right into being an ER nurse in New York City. With COVID hitting Manhattan hard, Nikki shares her experience having her fellowship cut short, navigating the pandemic, and discovering a whole new appreciation for her career as an ER nurse. Whether you share Nikki’s experience, are curious about what it was really like working as an ER nurse in NYC, or you want details on the process of becoming a nurse in the city…there is something for everyone in this episode! Including what it’s like to create TikTok videos that resonate with nurses everywhere!    01:15 Meet NYU Nursing School Alumni and ER nurse, Nikki! 03:00 Did you have previous experience in the medical field before becoming a nurse? 05:40 What are characteristics that make a great ER nurse? 07:15 Nikki’s experience working in the ER in New York City during the pandemic. 12:30 What is the fellowship process like for new grads in NYC? 13:15 Nikki’s first interview changing from her cap and gown to interview clothes after graduation! 15:50 Different experiences transitioning from nursing school to your first year as a new grad. 18:15 How did you get started creating your TikTok? 21:30 Ways creating content has helped Nikki gain a whole new appreciation for her career. 22:40 What are your goals for this upcoming year? 24:50 Creating content and a shoutout to the Instagram husbands and boyfriends out there! 27:00 What are some Pros and Cons of being a New Grad in the ER? 30:00 Advice for New Grads jumping immediately into a specialty unit. 33:30 The importance of self care and taking care of your health! 35:00 Where can everyone connect with you?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: The pros of being an ICU nurse, including scheduling, autonomy, opportunities, and more. The cons of being an ICU nurse, including high stress, difficult patients, physical labor, and more. How to know if ICU is right for you. Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Do you want to know if ICU is right for I-C-you? Today, Maddi is flying solo and sharing her top favorite and least favorite things about being an ICU nurse! What are the pros and cons of working ICU? Do the positives outweigh the negatives? How do you know if you’re a good fit for ICU? From the highest highs to the lowest lows, this episode will cover everything you’ll need to know about what life as an ICU nurse actually looks like!   00:40 Why is today a solo episode? 02:25 How did I get involved in ICU? 04:50 What are the patient ratios in ICU? 07:45 Having easy access to the medical team. 10:05 What is so nice about flexible scheduling and extra shifts? 11:10 What drew me to ICU? 12:25 How does nursing provide opportunities for growth? 14:00 How does ICU give nurses more autonomy? 15:35 Working in a high stress environment. 16:20 What does physical labor look like in ICU? 17:40 How to deal with difficult patients and/or family members. 19:10 What is the most heartbreaking thing about working ICU? 21:05 How do you know if ICU is right for you?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: What Nurses Inspire Nurses is, and how it has been positively impacting nurses and nursing students. The importance of inspiring each other. How to foster a supportive community. Resources + Links: Learn more about Nurses Inspire Nurses!   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Are you ready to feel inspired? This episode, we have the CEO & founder of Nurses Inspire Nurses, Cat Golden, here to share her nursing & business journey with us! Together, we’ll explore the power and importance behind nurturing a strong, supportive community for all nurses. What can we do to inspire and uplift others? And how can we not only take care of others, but also prioritize ourselves? Today is an ultra-positive, ultra-supportive episode you won’t want to miss! Join us and learn how to get inspired so you can go inspire! 00:40 Meet the incredible Cat Golden, CEO & founder of Nurses Inspire Nurses! 02:10 Who is Cat Golden? 05:35 What was your nursing journey like before Nurses Inspire Nurses? 08:35 Knowing your secret superpower. 10:25 How did you start your business? 15:55 Why should we be supporting each other? 18:05 Why do we need to support nursing students? 19:40 How did it feel to take Nurses Inspire Nurses full time? 23:40 Prioritizing your happiness. 26:00 What made you realize you needed to make a change? 27:40 Pushing through the fear. 31:50 What can people take away from Nurses Inspire Nurses? 36:50 What final advice do you have for anyone listening?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: What goes on before, during, and after a 12 hour shift. How to survive your shift. How to prepare for a 12 hour shift. The best way to reduce stress and anxiety & decompress. Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: What really goes on during a 12 hour shift? More importantly, how do you survive!? Today, we’re going over everything you need to know to help you get through those long hour shifts! We’ll discuss what you can do to prepare for your shift, including how to relax and lessen your anxiety so you can set yourself up for success. Then, it’s time to dive into what happens during the shift and what you can do to stay organized and updated. Finally, we’ll share our tips on the best ways to decompress and recuperate afterwards. By the end of this episode, you won’t have to fear the 12 hour shift any longer! 00:40 How do you make it through a 12 hour shift? 02:20 Prepping the day prior to a shift. 05:20 How do you cut down anxiety? 07:05 What should you do when you’re on shift, from a day perspective? 09:45 What should you do when you’re on shift, from a night perspective? 11:05 Tips for charting. 13:25 Why is taking breaks so important? 14:45 Staying updated with chart reviews. 17:30 What can you do during downtime? 18:45 What do you need to do at the end of your shift? 21:35 What do you do after you get off shift? 24:10 How to burn energy before sleep. 27:25 What is the best way to get through 12 hour shifts?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: How to overcome imposter syndrome and boost your confidence. Advice for nursing students and the NCLEX. The first steps you should take to become a nurse. What we’ve learned from our past mistakes. Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: You asked for it, so we’re answering it! For our Season 4 finale, we’re doing a fun, chill Q&A session going over the questions you’ve all sent in for us! If you’ve ever wondered how we deal with imposter syndrome, our goals for this year, or what our favorite color of scrubs are, then look no further than this episode. We’ll talk about travel nursing, studying for NCLEX, learning from past mistakes, and more. Let’s wrap up this season by exploring your questions together! 01:15 What is your favorite lunch bag for work? 04:15 What is your favorite thing to order from the cafeteria? 05:30 How do you overcome imposter syndrome? 08:35 Learning how to accept compliments. 10:45 When should you start studying for NCLEX? 14:45 If you could wear one color of scrubs forever, what would it be? 17:10 What would you tell your nursing student self? 21:00 What would you like to see happen in your life this year? 23:55 If you did travel nursing, which city would you apply to? 25:35 The appeal of travel nursing. 28:25 What is the first thing you should do to become a nurse? 31:20 What is a mistake you’ve made, and how did you learn from it? 35:55 What is coming up in Season 5?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Updates on our health and jobs. Why we made the shifts we did, and what changes are happening next. What’s coming up for the podcast in 2022.   Resources + Links:   Connect with us on Instagram | @lifeinscrubspodcast   Follow along with our personal Instagram pages too!   Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @thenursekristen    Connect with Maddi on Instagram | @nurse.maddi   Show Notes: Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a new Life in Scrubs episode! After our unexpected hiatus, we are finally back and ready to share our latest life updates with you! This episode is here to keep you up-to-date with the newest shifts and future happenings you may have missed since the New Year started. First, we’ll talk about our experiences with having COVID-19. Then, it’s time to discuss what’s new with our jobs and positions, and why we made the shifts we did. A lot has changed and a lot more is coming your way next, so stay tuned and stay updated to see what’s in store for 2022! 00:45 Welcome back to Life in Scrubs! 02:40 What was it like having COVID? 04:25 How did we test for COVID? 06:00 What are the persisting effects and symptoms of COVID? 08:55 Stepping away from working bedside. 12:10 Why can it be difficult to take a step back? 13:25 New job updates. 17:35 What is most exciting and most scary about changing jobs? 20:40 What is Aspen and Ash? How is it different from the old shop? 24:30 How did you come up with the name? 26:00 What is coming up next for the podcast?