Advice on Nursing Career

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Hello All,

I am new to this website; I have been browsing for approx. 2 weeks, and I had to join!! This site is so informative and I've learned so much over the last couple of weeks. My question is regarding which program I should enroll in.

A brief history on me: I have been in undergrad. since fall of 2005; I took a semester off last spring. I just didn't know what I wanted to do...I switched my major SEVERAL times. I've majored in Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Mass Media, and Community Education. Yes, I know that is too much!! The turning point for me was when I took a semester off (for personal reasons) and took a CNA training course over the summer. I have to say I LOVED it!! I loved working with the older adults (practicum was at LTC); they loved me and appreciated me for taking care of them (very well I might add)....that, made my heart melt....

So, I decided for once and for all that I'm going to enroll in Nursing school. Now, I know that this is a very TOUGH field to get into (clinical and theory wise), but I WANT this so bad!! I was wondering if anyone could give me some encouraging words or advice on Nursing in general. I am now in school for MA, but I plan to enroll in NS as soon as I graduate, which is Spring 2011. I figure, I could gain some experience by working as a MA while going to Nursing school. Let me also say this, I'm not the best at math...I could definitely brush up on my skills, but I'm willing to put in the work to master that skill along with the science classes...any advice would be great! Thanks in advance!!

Tainya~

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I'm glad your interest lies in LTC. We needed nurses there! Time management is key to success. Networking is too!

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I'm glad your interest lies in LTC. We needed nurses there! Time management is key to success. Networking is too!

Thanks for responding!! LTC is not exactly what I'm striving for though...eventually, I would like to work in ICU or ER. I have to work in a fast paced environment...I have to keep moving!! ;)

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Great decision to become a Nurse. Def go the BSN route, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. I was recently hired at a facility in NYC that ONLY accepts RNs with their BSN (ADN only if they are currently matriculated in a BSN program and plan to graduate within a year). Nursing school is TOUGH no ifs ands or buts about it. Focus on your goal and you will do well. Browse around other threads for words of encouragement but congrats on your decision to enter into a wonderful profession. :up: :nurse:

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Welcome, Tainya! It looks like we're on a similar boat. I'm new to this myself. I recently decided to take pre-reqs towards a nursing program. I earned my undergrad in Exercise Science 7 years ago, and have been working full-time since. For the last 5 years tho, I have been debating whether to go back to school for nursing. So finally, I've made up my mind! I plan to apply for accelerated BSN programs, which start in May 2011. The idea of being in the classroom again is quite scary, but exciting at the same time. This forum is VERY helpful and encouraging so far.

As far as choosing your nursing program, my top choice schools were dependent on proximity to my home and tuition cost. Fortunately, I have very good and affordable schools for my area. But you have to decide what is important to you and what you feel like YOU need to succeed. (For example, I am not willing to drive an hour one way to school, but would consider paying higher tuition for reputation and quality of school).

I would love to hear others' advice as well.

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Dont worry about the math. Its all simple dose calculation. I myself am horrible at math. Its tough in nursing school but definatly doable

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I had to take a math placement test at my college and had to start with Algebra II. But now I'm glad I had it, as I feel like I have a much better foundation than I had before. So I would say don't be discouraged if you have to start with a non-credit math class.

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Specializes in Management, Emergency, Psych, Med Surg.

First of all, thank you for considering nursing as a career. Those of us who are getting older really need you!!!

You have the same track record as myself, having trouble deciding what to major in. Nursing turned out to be a great choice for me. I loved the patient interaction and learning. I am still learning and medicine is still interesting to me.... I am sure that it will be for you as well.

I encourage you to get at least a bachelors degree. It does not necessarily need to be in nursing, but it will open more doors for you. Also, if you ever want to go into management, in most places a bachelors degree is a minimum requirement.

The basic math required for nursing is not that difficult. Basic algebra is what you will need to know. When you get into the pharmacology area of your training, they will get more specific in regard to the calculations that you will need to know specifically for medication administration. You will need to be well versed in the metric system because that is the system used for medication administration. It is not as difficult as it used to be because pharmacies often calculate the rates for you, you have set formulas to use, or your pumps have pre set rates. Also you have the use of your calculator which we did not have when I started nursing.

Good Luck to you!!!!

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Word of advice though, make sure your school is accredited by the national board not just the state boards. Yes, there are some colleges that are cheaper than others but they might not be accredited by the national board. Nursing schools are just popping up everywhere and you don't now if they're any good or worth your $$. If I were you go to well-known nursing colleges just to be sure.

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