Accepted into LPN program but having second thoughts...

[SirAmelia]

Hey everyone, I've recently been accepted into an LPN program in Canada. I'm excited but also wondering if nursing is really what I'm cut out for. Basically, I'm wondering if my personality and career goals are ultimately compatible with nursing. See, I really love learning about the human body, psychology, determinants of health, etc, and these subjects (which I studied briefly during my arts degree) are what made me consider nursing. But, I hear about the stress that comes with the job and it scares me.

I don't do well with long shifts where I'm on my feet the entire time and breaks are few and far between, at least that's been my experience working in retail. I want a job where I don't come home completely burnt out. I want to be able to spend time with my family and have time to work on my hobbies (I love writing). I know there is no such thing as "the perfect job", but I'm thinking that these wants aren't compatible with nursing.

I've also been accepted into a Therapeutic Recreation program, but the pay isn't nearly as much in this career. My ultimate dream is to either become an NP or MSW and run my own wellness center. Nursing would ultimately give me more capital (and better knowledge of medical care) to start my own business, but a career as a recreational therapist may not be nearly as stressful or demanding, and this job is still very much related to what I'm looking for.

I apologize for the lengthy post, but I was hoping to talk to some established nurses who may be able to give me advice on whether or not it sounds like I would do well in the nursing field. Any comments would be much appreciated, as I'm just not sure where to go at this point. Thanks very much in advance for any info you can provide!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Your thread has been moved to our Nursing in Canada forum so it can attract replies from those who can describe the realities of being a Canadian Nurse.

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

If you don't do well with long shifts on your feet and hours until your break, you may need to re-evaluate nursing. Working conditions are not ideal.

However, despite this, if you feel you would enjoy nursing for other reasons, then go for it.

[dishes, BSN, RN]

Since you have a bachelors degree have you considered going straight for the MSW? It will be a faster route to working in a wellness centre.

[Missmissa]

You can be a nurse and work in health care, and never have to be on your feet for long. There are lots of different kinds of nursing.. some you may never have to see a patient, or even selling medical equipment. Although this cannot be avoiding during clinical

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

The positions that require minimal standing (sales rep, research, management, education) all require bedside nursing experience. New grads are not hired into these roles.

[dishes, BSN, RN]

Pharmaceutical and medical device reps spend long hours standing at display booths during conferences, advisory board meetings and inservices. Rep jobs are glorified retail jobs.

[Fiona59]

Reps also require a degree, and work on commission