How is it REALLY to be a Male Nurse?

[Riverhopper]

I am getting a lot of conflicting info. I am about to start an accelerated BSN and this involves quitting my job (I make about 75K a year but I am looking for greater job security and more money even if it means working OT). Does one really have to clean patients and the like? Do you feel respected? I notice that a lot of nurses complain about the lack of respect. Respect is a big deal for me. Are all the stories about nursing shortage really accurate? From what I am hearing it really depends on the state. Also, did anyone think about the implications of future changes in immigration law (importing foreign nurses) which is likely given the so called shortage (I would hate getting into so much debt and find out later that I will have to compete for jobs that pay less than my current job). I would really appreciate your comments.

[TonyFl]

WOW...excellent advice Stanley.

CNA....i wonder how long the schooling for that is?

Why not start taking your prereqs but get your CNA license. Believe me, if you can't cut it as an aide providing basic care for people, you won't make it as a nurse.

On the other hand, I thought cleaning people was gross. It does grow on you though. Whoever thought a man would enjoy caring for people? I didn't...