Wondering if RN is for me; several question on my post

[ptaornurse]

Hello and thanks for looking at my post.

I have my AAS degree in PT assisting but thought about RN school throughout the years. The 2 year route, at least for now, may be best for me. The PT assistant degree has many classes that would apply to the RN degree. I have some question regarding the degree and the career itself.

Some of the classes I took were about 20 years ago. I do not wish to retake A&P I and II but would consider auditing the classes as a refresher. I also had General Chem years ago do you really think it necessary to audit chem as well as microbiology or will the actual nursing classes cover enough to jog my memory where I could review on my own. I'm a good study.

As far as career questions, I'm wondering if a new ADN grad can pursue a homecare career or is hospital experience required first? Any feelings on homecare nursing? My second choice may be orthopedics being I work in SNF rehab dept.'s Can ADN's specialize, such as in orthopedics? Can ADN grads pursue a career in research? My friend with a BSN works in clinical research. How do nurses alternate weekends and do part time nurses have to work them as well? One final question, do you think it's silly to pursue my RN degree in my 40's?

Thanks a million for your time reading and hopefully replying to this post....

Lyn

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

answers are below

some of the classes i took were about 20 years ago. you need to check with the school's requirements. you may need to repeat any "core" courses if they are too old. knowledge changes over time, and your old science courses may not be up to date

i'm wondering if a new adn grad can pursue a homecare career or is hospital experience required first? can adn's specialize, such as in orthopedics?

your basic education has no bearing on clinical specialization for most employers.

can adn grads pursue a career in research?

many research-oriented jobs require a bsn because that currilulum usually includes courses on basic statistics and research methodologies.

how do nurses alternate weekends and do part time nurses have to work them as well?

oh yeah - working weekends just comes with the job in any 24x7 setting. most employers have very specific requirements for part time & prn nurses that spell out exactly how many weekends and holidays you need to work.

one final question, do you think it's silly to pursue my rn degree in my 40's?

absolutely not! go for it!!

lyn