The suspense is killing me.....when to follow up

So i interviewed for a job that i REALLY want. they told us we wouldn't hear back for 2 1/2 weeks due to one interview that got scheduled very very late. The day after my interview they checked references....and now i have not heard anything for the past week. I know generally you follow up after a week but they have already give me a timeline. Is protocol to still follow-up and under what premise and who do you follow up with the recruiter or the nurse manager?
I don't think it would hurt anything to send your interviewer a "Thank you for your time" letter, but I wouldn't add anything that you may have forgotten to say during the interview. I think it would be ok to say something like "I just wanted to thank you for allowing me to interview for X position on X date." etc. If nothing else, it will keep you fresh in their mind as they sift through those last interviews and it could be what tips the scale in your favor. In my non-medical experience, anytime they go to the trouble of checking your references, that's a good sign so why not give them something else to make you stand out? But again, I could be wrong.

You could send a card to the interviewer thanking them for their time and consideration, saying that it was nice to meet with them, and letting them know you are looking forward to their call. This wouldn't be pushy but would definitely remind them of you. I would avoid a call given the fact that they told you about the late interview that they have scheduled. Good luck! I hope you get the job!! Amanda Tillema

Follow up with an e-mail! Absolutely follow up. Good luck!

I would send an email expressing your interest in the position. However, I would not call until after the timeframe they told you had passed. Good luck!