ADHD as a nurse

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If I have a very severe case of ADHD, will I still be able to become a CNA and finish nursing school? I've struggled with my grades in high school and I'm wondering if that will effect my future.

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Specializes in Short Term/Skilled.

School will be challenging, but doable. The job is actually perfect for someone with ADHD, IMO.

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Hi Cheyennewulff,

All the career advice that I've heard for people with ADHD points to the fact that there is no specific career that always or never works for people with ADHD. This is because every career path has many different settings in which to practice. For example, a home health nurse's day looks completely different than a ER nurse's day. Also, each person with ADHD has a unique set of passions and challenges. When you are passionate about something it is easier to give it your full attention. I know one successful nurse with ADHD who loves kids. Her pediatric nursing job is challenging for her, but her passion for helping children helps her get through it. The ideal is to pick a career and eventually jobs that give you as much an opportunity as possible to utilize your natural strengths and passions.

I really like the book by Wima Fellman who specializes in career counseling for people with disabilities including ADHD. The book is called, "Finding a career that works for you: A step by step guide to choosing a career."

I am a Registered Nurse myself and I do life coaching for people with ADHD. Please feel free to contact me. All the best in your career journey!

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I have severe ADHD, as long as you are getting treatment. It is possible!

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