Considering nursing

[midnightingale]

So for a while I have been considering going into nursing and I'm still wondering a few things. Could someone answer a few of my questions?

Why did you choose nursing?

What kind of education do you need?

What does a typical day look like for a nurse?

I've heard people say nurses are patient advocates, how the heck do they do that?

What do you like the best about nursing? What do you like the least?

I'd prefer a nurse who's been working for a while, but I'm open to anyone. I just want to get a picture of what a nurse does. Oh, and the more answers the better. I want to learn so much!

(I hope I didn't post this in the wrong place, I'm new!)

[loriangel14, RN]

1. I choose nursing because I wanted a job that would make a difference in people's lives and I enjoy caring for others.I was a PSW ( Canadain version of a CNA) and I wanted to know more about health and how to help people.

2.It depends on where you are. I am in Canada,We have a 4 year BSN if you want to be an RN or a 2 year diploma to be a Practical Nurse.In the US they also have a 2 year Associates(RN) and I think perhaps their PN programs are shorter than ours in some places.

3.There really is no"typical day" There are dozens of different work settings and even in the same job each day is different.

Typically I get report, give meds, do assessments, document, do treatments, communicate with doctors and families, do dressing changes.... the list is endless and one nurses list will never be the same as another's.

4.You advocate for your patient's by making sure they have things they need. For example,if pain is not controlled you need to advocate to the MD for better meds. If a patients spiritual needs are not being met you would ensure they get a visit from the chaplain.There are plenty of things you can advocate for.I had a COPD pt that was used to taking her puffers at breakfast and supper but they were ordered breakfast and bed time.She was very upset every time someone refused to give her the puffer until bed time. I had the time changed on the MAR.

Basically if the patient's needs aren't being met, or there is an unsafe situation or you think something needs to be changed, you advocate.

5. The best? When a patient smiles and you get a heart felt thank you.

The worst? When we are prevented from caring for our patient's by families that think they are doctors and want to call all the shots.