Am I too old?

[etexaslady]

I have been an LVN for 17 years with no desire to get an RN until now. I am 56 years old, and have always worked long-term care. I have been thinking of getting my ADN and possibly a BSN. I already have a BS in Psychology so going on to a BSN would be no problem. However, I wonder if I would be considered for hospital positions or am I too old to consider changing specialties?

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

You're never too old, and it is never too late.

However, when (if ever) do you plan to retire? The answer to this question should guide the rest of your educational decisions.

My opinion might be unpopular, but I personally would not want to deal with the grueling nature of bedside nursing in my 60s or 70s, nor would I want to amass tens of thousands of dollars worth of student loan debt during those years.

I think you should go for it if you can find schools with affordable tuition and find ways to attain your education debt-free. Good luck to you!

[rita359]

Have you looked into how long it would take to get your rn? How old would you be then? How many years do you think you will still

work? Many questions to be answered before you decide. If you plan to work until 70 you would probably have 10 years as an rn and it

may then be worth it.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I'm currently uh 54 years old. I got my LPN in 1992, ADN in 1994. I went back to school for a BSN at 44, then MSN at 45, post MSN cert at 46 and a second one at 52. I do plan (and will have to) work until at least 70.

If getting a BSN (I personally would skip the ADN) will give you opportunities to get away from the bedside then I vote go for it. This was the reason I went back to school - opportunities.

As to student loans, I personally feel that money spent on education is never wasted and is an investment in mine and my family's future.

[itsmejuli]

As a new grad RN do you think you'll make more money than an LPN with all your years of experience?

Given the current job shortage for new grad RNs do you think you'll find a job?

Are you thinking of moving into a DON position in LTC?

Are you setting aside money now for retirement, funding a 401k?

Yes there's lots to think about.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I was 45 when I started nursing school and 57 by the time I got my masters degree. Yes, you would be considered, especially in East Texas where hospitals are expanding and needing nurses.