What made you pursue your nursing career?

It wasn't until eye openers of being in the health care field that I new this profession was for me. You have to be in nursing for the right reasons, you have to really love what you do. You know what they say "Love what you do, and you'll never work a day in your life" Nurses Announcements Archive Article

What made you pursue your nursing career?

I did not always want to be a nurse. Growing up, I never even new what a nurse job consisted of, or what they did on a daily basis. I stayed in a hospital once or twice .. and new they took care of people, but that was the extent of knowing what nurses did.

The time when I really started getting interesing in learning more about nursing was when my mom got sick with Leukemia. I remember being 15 years old, in and out of hospitals, alarming IV's -sensory overload that is for sure. I remember little details, like seeing my mom declining, and being told there was nothing left they could do. I remember saying that only if I worked in healthcare, I might not of been able to have a better prognosis, but I could understand the disease process, understand what was actually happening inside the body of my mother. She was only 44 years old, too young for anyone to go thru this, and a 15 year old really has no idea what is happening .. and to say the least - what to expect next.

This, of course, was not the only thing that could make me become a nurse. I was intrigued by how the bodied worked, and intrigued by helping others get better. I needed to make sure that I could work with people on a daily basis and I needed to make sure that this is truly what I had passion for. I have a big heart and put passion into anything I do but new that I could not make this my life long career if my heart was not in it. It wouldnt be right for me and It wouldnt be right for my colleagues, and especially the patients I would face on a daily basis.

I first decided to go to Medical Assisting school so I could get some sort of backround on the Medical field. I worked as a Medical Assistant for some wonderful physicians for 4 years while doing my pre-reqs and truly loved what I did. After 6 months of working there, I went back to school working towards my RN - one class at a time- one step at a time.

I was finally accepted in a accrediated RN program. When i was accepted i decided I needed to get a PCA position at my local hospital to see what the inpatient experience is like, knowing that alot of nurses do work in acute care facilities. I am so glad I did.

It wasnt until I became a PCA on a orthopedic floor that I truly new what nurses did on a daily basis. Even working as a medical assistant, I did not realize the respect nurses deserve and how much these people really care for these patients.

Yes, my mom gave me the thought about becoming a nurse, but these people who truly appreciate your care and truly appreciate what you do for them are the reason why I am in this profession today. I could not picture myself doing anything else. I love what I do, where I am going, and am going to continue to strive.

One year into my nursing program, I was offered a PCA job on the same floor at the same hospital that my mom passed away on. I took the position and my decision has never been better. People tend to tell me I am so strong because they would never be able to do that. I am strong because I have to, because I have to move on with life, and I have to become a better person - because even almost 11 years later that is what my mom would have wanted. There is no sense to dwell on something I cannot change. I finish Nursing school In May and I plan on becoming a nurse on this floor if it is possible.

Theres nothing more I would not want to do. I will also be continuing my education and going for my MSN because eventually I want to teach. It might not be tomorrow, or even next year, but I will get there.

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katiebry1031

About katiebry1031

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Thank you for sharing your wonderful story!

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When I was in High School my friends and I use to volunteer in this one soup kitchen downtown every Tuesday.

My best friend at the time was a regular volunteer, and I just...I guess "joined." haha

I was amazed how the homeless people approached and socialized with my best friend easily, like they've known her more than I do!

Every Tuesday evening, to be honest, it didn't feel like these homeless people had any troubles, regrets--whatever it is that led them to where they are in their lives then (and maybe now). A warm meal, being able to stay indoors for the night, all their worries seemed to vanish..even for just one night.

You'd be surprised with what people are willing to divulge if all you have to offer are your listening ears, compassion, and kindness, understanding, sympathy/empathy (all rolled into one). That's something I never had from my parents when I was growing up; they were always to busy eve for their kids.

Over time I got to know some of these people. Cried in their stories..

Long story short, I realized how "alive" and happy I was with helping other people. And I wanted to do something more other than serving food, etc. I want to help people in a more "human" and hands-on level so to speak. And, to be honest, I had to think of career that does that that can support me financially...or at least be able to live comfortably.. After countless thoughts and research, hello Nursing! :cat:

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