Official nurses thread!

[ali]

My telephone interview wasn't much different - the only thing that I mentioned before hand was that i hadn't been able to look at the mental health act - but that I would endevour to do so when I arrived.

The asked me my understanding of clinical governance and my role in it, scenarios (about 3), and they did ask me of my experience working with involuntary patients (but not the act itself).. I guess if you're going for a specific speciality there may be some questions regarding that.

Ali

[The Middletons]

I was asked two questions in mine: "What's the weather like over there?" and "When can you start?" - I was a bit disappointed because I'd spent two days cramming the mental health act and all that other stuff you learn for interviews!!

Good luck.

[kellyjamie]

hi all im looking for some advice please tho it will probably be more opinions id imagine im having to decide whether to adult general or mental health at uni, i was at my open day for adult yesterday and im going to the mental health one next week, i just wondered if any mental health nurses could tell me whats involved in the 3 year course ie placements etc, im really torn as i have interest in oncology, infectious diseases but also in drug and alcohol misuse so i have no idea which path to take? i was swayed to adult general as i thought i would have a wider training and maybe easier to get a job in oz i dont know? any advice comments would be great plz

[Mikekat]

Mike was geared up for his telephone interview with Queensland health - the interview was extremely informal - mostly they explained the opportunites available and the shift patterns, no questions about clinical governance, although Mike did comment that he had downloaded the QLD Mental health act and started to read it.

After worrying for days the interview went smoothly and job offer made and accepted.

What a relief.

[Clairey b]

Hi

I just wanted to say a big thank you for all the replies regarding interviews-its put my mind at rest a little!!! Anymore would always be greatly appreciated!

Anyway, thank you again

Claire x

[Brisbane or bust]

Does anyone know of a way round asking your manager for a professional reference? It seems a bit awkward to ask as I cannot think of a way to explain what I want it for. As the visa process takes so long, I don't want any animosity at work.

Any suggestions?

Shell. X

[ali]

There isn't one I'm afraid - just be upfront and tell them, I also said that it took ages and that it wouldn't interfer with my commitment to work. You'll also need a statement from HR saying how long you've been there, what grade you're employed at and the hours you work

Good luck

[mummyto2]

Hi there I know it's tricky as you don't want your manager to know you're leaving just yet i would guess? If you work in the NHS, there's no reason why you can't speak to human resources regarding a reference. After all they're supposed to act on your behalf. Perhaps they could do a reference for you without discussing it with your manager. Hope this helps x

[ali]

I think the reference is supposed to be about your skills as a nurse - human rescources wouldn't be able to comment on your skills only how long you've worked there. There is an advantage in that you can attach these references to your CV when you post it out. I have thought of a way to get a reference - you could tell your manager that you are updating your portfolio and would like to put in a testimonial - I have these in my portfolio from my manager and consultant - they are written as if writing a reference with "to whome it may concern" - they're done on letter head - may be a way around it ... but your manager may appreciate your honessty

Ali

[Brisbane or bust]

Hi ali

I think you may well be right. Honesty is the best policy. I will have to approach her and see how she reacts. If she is funny, I will have to take the attitude that I won't have to work there forever.

Roll on the rest of the journey.