Would your hospitals hire a middle-aged rookie?

U.S.A. Colorado

Published

Hello Everybody. I am a 43 year old woman currently in an accelerated BSN Nursing program. I will be 45 years old at the end of my schooling. Am I crazy? Will anyone even want to hire me? My grades are good and I am very interested in the field, but I'd hate to take on $20k debt now and then find myself unemployable. Thanks for the honesty.:confused:

Specializes in LTC, Psych, M/S.

If you say that you are really in need of a job and do have a current CO license, My advice - I would apply at a LTC (if you are interested - you shouldn't have a problem finding work). I work with a RN (in LTC)that returned after several years of not working in nursing - she picked up on it just fine. The facility sent her to a training class for IV's, but for a LPN position, you will mostly just be administering meds, and doing basic treatments. For other procedures, there are all kinds of "how to" nursing books out there - I have used them as a resource many times. And if you aren't sure about a med, look it up.

Point being, I bet you can find an employer who will work with you and provide you with adequate training, even without a refresher course.

LOL, I'll be 56 when I become an RN! Life isn't fun if you don't take chances!:wink2:

If you say that you are really in need of a job and do have a current CO license, My advice - I would apply at a LTC (if you are interested - you shouldn't have a problem finding work). I work with a RN (in LTC)that returned after several years of not working in nursing - she picked up on it just fine. The facility sent her to a training class for IV's, but for a LPN position, you will mostly just be administering meds, and doing basic treatments. For other procedures, there are all kinds of "how to" nursing books out there - I have used them as a resource many times. And if you aren't sure about a med, look it up.

Point being, I bet you can find an employer who will work with you and provide you with adequate training, even without a refresher course.

I really appreciate the input. I will try that , i do love old people. Do you have any good ideas for the Aurora, Co area. I saw the rocky mountain in you intro

LOL, I'll be 56 when I become an RN! Life isn't fun if you don't take chances!:wink2:

Amen Sister!!!!!!!! Ya have to give us credit, the only way i feel older is if i look in a mirror. LOL Other than that i am about 22. :lol2:

Amen Sister!!!!!!!! Ya have to give us credit, the only way i feel older is if i look in a mirror. LOL Other than that i am about 22. :lol2:

Thanks, Judy, but I'm a guy!!!!

Specializes in LTC, Psych, M/S.
I really appreciate the input. I will try that , i do love old people. Do you have any good ideas for the Aurora, Co area. I saw the rocky mountain in you intro

I am in northern CO, but from reading the "help wanted" section of the Denver Post this morning (sun. edition) there are many LPN jobs in the Denver area. Personally, I have had luck just calling facilities and asking if they have job openings.

I am in northern CO, but from reading the "help wanted" section of the Denver Post this morning (sun. edition) there are many LPN jobs in the Denver area. Personally, I have had luck just calling facilities and asking if they have job openings.[/quote

Thanks for the input. I am back at it this morning, wish me good luck. The fact that i've been out of it for 27 yrs. is a factor. Wish me good luck.

Hey, they hired ME!:D

Seriously, most employers actually appreciate new nurses with life experience......they generally have more patience and wisdom than their younger counterparts, plus they are motivated and learn quickly.

So don't worry about your prospects........you'll undoubtedly be an asset to any organization you work for!

Double Ditto! I am 53 and going strong; I do not smoke, take vitamins daily, wear really good shoes, and pace myself throughout the week.

Double Ditto! I am 53 and going strong; I do not smoke, take vitamins daily, wear really good shoes, and pace myself throughout the week.

I just happen to be sitting at my computer when your reply came through. Thanks for the input. I believe age is all in your head. I have an interveiw in the morning at a LTC wish me good luck.

If you say that you are really in need of a job and do have a current CO license, My advice - I would apply at a LTC (if you are interested - you shouldn't have a problem finding work). I work with a RN (in LTC)that returned after several years of not working in nursing - she picked up on it just fine. The facility sent her to a training class for IV's, but for a LPN position, you will mostly just be administering meds, and doing basic treatments. For other procedures, there are all kinds of "how to" nursing books out there - I have used them as a resource many times. And if you aren't sure about a med, look it up.

Point being, I bet you can find an employer who will work with you and provide you with adequate training, even without a refresher course.

I have an interview with a LTC in the AM. Thanks and wish me good luck. Judy

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