I've been thinking a lot about getting older (and older) recently. For me, nursing was a second career. When I graduated from high school, I immediately started nursing school because that's what you did in the 70's. However, about 18 months later, I realized I hated it and didn't want to continue with all the work. To be honest, I was very lazy and saw no reason to put in the effort that nursing required. Hmmmm...what to do? Well, I joined the USN and shipped out two days later. Didn't bother quitting the classes either so ended up with <1.0 GPA. Along the way, I got married, had a couple of kids and worked several jobs. However, even I couldn't take the easy way out for my entire life.
At 32, I decided to try nursing school again. Not easy with such a lackluster GPA, two young kiddos and a husband that was deployed. However, I never do anything the easy way - LOL. I was on academic probation the first year. I completed an LPN certificate, then an ADN, a few years later BSN, then MSN then a couple of post-MSN certificates. I even started a DNP program but quickly realized that wasn't the route for me.
I've been so fortunate in my nursing career to work with some fantastic people: other nurses, staff members, supervisors and colleagues. I loved the level one trauma center ED where I worked for 10 years, most of the time on night shift. The never-ending parade of patients with complaints ranging from minor to major trauma. I truly thrived in that environment - it forced me to be on my toes every minute of my 12 hour shift. So many good times yet so much sadness, the abused kiddos were always the hardest patients. You ED peeps know what I'm talking about.
After I became an APRN, I was very fortunate to land a great job in a large nephrology practice where I've been for the past 15+ years. Again, I am so lucky to work with some of the most passionate, compassionate, intelligent APRNs. My physician-colleagues always welcome questions and provide insight into patient care issues. As an APRN, while the job is much less physically taxing, it is MUCH more stressful mentally and emotionally:
Decisions about patient care that have possible dire consequences
Potential for errors
Conducting family meetings to discuss end of life care
Signing DNR forms
I joined AN in 2000 and was quickly hooked. I love AN. As it has evolved, so have I. Members come and go as have I. I've been fortunate to meet so many members over the years at conferences. The staff members that run AN are tops in the industry - they truly care for the vision of AN and guide it through the ups and downs of our world.
What's the point of all my ramblings? Am I going to announce my retirement? Nope, not yet. I'm working past "retirement" age.
I would like to hear from others, like me, that for various reasons continue to work past "retirement" age. Why do you continue? Finances, family situations? Or something else? What keeps you going?
