[MrsSportcat]

I am having such a hard time deciding on a career. I know I want to go into the medical field, but after that I'm stuck. I have a B.A. in Graphic Design but it's just not what I want to do with my life. I want to do something more "hands on". I like to stay busy and work with people. First I thought I would go back to school to become a medical lab tech but then I was afraid that would be too monotonous. Then I considered going back to become a surgical tech but I'm afraid they just don't make that much money. Then I thought, "well heck...maybe I should just go for nursing!". I don't know. I've read so many posts on here about how stressed nurses are. Is that the case most of the time? If I went into nursing, I think I would enjoy pediatrics or anything pre to postnatal care. Maybe even OR nursing too. I don't think I would enjoy geriatrics or oncology care.

Any advice from those that have "been there, done that" is much appreciated! What would you do if you were in my shoes?

Thanks!
Stacy

[fultzymom]

Nursing is very stressful no matter what field I think. But it is very rewarding. If you enjoy working with people I think it is a good choice. It is a very hands-on career. Often times you work short staffed. The hours are long. Sometimes you feel under appreciated by everyone, patients, workers, doctors, employeers. But to me it is worth it. To know that I have helped just one person is all the reward that I need. I love it. Sure we all complain about our jobs, but what field does not? Good luck in your decision.

[RNperdiem]

Before you dismiss some of the choices you listed, make sure you know what you are rejecting. Have you spent any time among surgical techs or lab techs? Many workplaces will allow you to "shadow" someone at work if you ask. The same goes double for nursing.
I firmly believe that before going back to school to do anything, a person need to really know what they are getting into. A career that sounds good "on paper" might not be the career for you. Consider information gathering and shadowing a research project that will be worthwhile.

[rgroyer1RNBSN]

You think geriatrics and Oncology are bad try mine ER/Trauma/SICU/Lifeflight. LOL you might like nursing give it a shot and god only knows we need all the nurses we can get.

[oeue2007]

I have a BFA in Illustration just finished LPN and will start RN this summer. I started in Surg Tech then decided it was just too limited. I'm a little different in that I was in a BSN program 20 years ago and worked as an EMT and ER clerk before taking the 180 to art school so had some idea of what working in the medical field was like. If you do decide to go for nursing, my very best recommendation would be to go ahead now for the highest level you can afford to education-wise. Check into second degree accelerated BSN or MSN programs in your area. I'm taking the long way and it will end up being 3-4 years to complete my BSN. Would NOT do it this way again! You will have to "catch up" as far as experience goes but you'll be making more $$ and have more options right off the bat. Otherwise, I'm loving it! Don't want to be on the floor for very long but I'm getting some great experience! Also considering medical illustration as a semi-retirement position when I'm worn out/burnt out from the physical demands of clinical nursing! Good luck to you!

[sonicnurse2b]

MrsSportcat! I have a degree in Graphic Design and I am currently in RN school. LOVE IT! I was also unsatisfied with the design world, and longed to do something "meaningful" with my life and I love nursing. If it is do-able I would go for the RN @ a community college. It is much quicker (4 semesters) and the pay is exactly the same.

[hirami]

Well, it sounds like you are doing your research. Maybe you need to sit down and watch a video on a particular career choice and see what it entails. You'll know what choice to make.