Decisions, Decisions.....

[beachgirl0605]

Hi Everyone,

I have a question regarding training as an LPN or RN. I worked in the medical/dental insurance industry for almost 20 years and was laid off two years ago. I have been trying to find a job in that field simply to pay bills, however, I have always wanted to go to Nursing school. I have never tried to because "life" just kept getting in the way. Now I am married to a great guy and provider. Since I can't seem to find a job, I am seriously considering going back to school.

Can anyone share in "raw detail" the worst and best thing about nursing school? My nephew's mom is working on her PHD in Nursing now so I know the field is very demanding, but, I would like some honest and detailed feedback from others, especially those that are further along in age (not right out of high school).

Thanks so much!

[AccelCNL, MSN, RN]

That really depends on a lot of things. First, how is the job market for LPNs and RNs in your area. After that, do hospitals in your area prefer bachelor-prepared RNs or ADN- RNs? How competitive is admissions in your area. If your goal is to be an RN you should just go for that particularly since as a RN you could go anywhere in the country if needs be.

I know the prerequisites can be daunting depending on the program that you are planning on applying to. However, as someone who has been looking to go to nursing school since 2008 eventually you will get in. The three time I applied to nursing school I was denied. My GPA was not competitive. I took some time off from school and went back with a fresh head in 8 months to another college. After retaking AP1 &II ( because I did not like that C) and graduating magna cum laude I am know going to start an ABSN in August. This program is very competitive to get into and has a waitlist this year. I feel blessed for this opportunity.

My point is I have been where you are. Right now you are contemplating and also thinking about the journey. I say start. Soon you will be on here posting the news that you are starting clinicals.

[missnurse01, MSN, RN]

When I went through my initial LPN program I could not understand how the Mom's in the class did it. They had a very hard time relearning how to learn - take notes, take tests, study, along with having to maintain the house and family. The ones that had no young children fared better.

Anything is possible, it is totally up to you. You may have to devote every waking minute to studying for a few years, no family get togethers, vacations, etc. Your hubs will have to understand he will have to do more cooking and cleaning, etc. For me, the hard part was jumping through all the hoops that seemingly power hungry nursing instructions wanted you to jump through. It is harder to swallow as you get older and have life experience. But you bring so much to nursing!

if you want it, then go after it and don't let anyone stop you.

good luck to you