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Discussion

Considering RPN or RN Program - Have many Questions!

Hi everyone,

I'm nearly 35 and plan on going back to school to study nursing in September 2010. I have been raising my kids and running a web design business out of my home for years and I want to finally make the leap to nursing.

My goal is to be in L&D, NICU or Obstetrics. I've always had a passion to help moms & babies. I have 2 sons and the oldest was in NICU at birth, then had Kawasaki's Disease at 3 months of age. I just helped my best friend this past weekend by being her labour coach - and it felt completely natural to be a part of that process for her. Needless to say, I'm 100% sure this is my calling.

Having been out of school for years, I have no idea where to start. Can a Practical Nurse work in these settings? Would I be more marketable if I did the 4 year program to become an RN? Is it advisable to take the Pre-Health year first despite the fact that I a) got great grades in high school; and b) took one year of nursing when I was 17 at a college in Toronto. (I quit because at 17, I was not mature enough emotionally to handle it.)

Thanks for any insight. I'll be honest - going back to school at 35 is daunting, but my husband did that and just graduated (he's 40 now). My turn! :p

Thanks again!

Karen

Featured Replies

  • Experts

If you can manage it I would advise getting your BSN right off the bat. The settings you wish to work in will require you have your RN and in most provinces that means getting your degree.I went back to school at 38 (part time, took almost 4 years)and got my RPN with intentions of getting my degree later.Now I am 43 and still paying off my school debts from last time. Looking at another 3 years and another $15 000 debt is not looking attractive right now. I love my job but if you are wanting to work in these areas you would need to go straight to RN. Best of luck.

P.S. I would not worry about taking the pre-health course. You will be fine without it.

  • Author

Thank you for you input - I am going to meet with the college and ensure I don't need the Pre-health. I had really high grades in the sciences in high school so I'm hoping that will be enough.

Again, thank you for your response!

Karen

Whats the pre health course?

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