Doctor interaction?

[MsBruiser]

This is I'm due to start an accelerated RN program as part of a career change (MBA background to RN). Most everyone is very positive about my change except my father, who consistently tells me "I don't know how you are going to deal with those doctors who will talk down to you and treat you like you are stupid all day long." How big is that problem? Is it something to be conerned about? Or is he just sore his son is taking a paycut and actually doing what he wants to do with his life?????

Thanks - all responses appreciated.

[HARRN2b]

Somedays, I wish I were about 20 years younger. I would be a doctor. I have decided that I was smart enough to do it. I just was not encouraged. My father told me to get a business degree from a prestigious school and I would be set....and that is what I did.....but I hate business. I have to tell you all, my dad is in his 70's now, and he still says "are you sure you can do nursing school?" Just gotta go with it. He is my dad, but he is from another generation. You know, where your social status depended on your husband. Oh, how I am glad those days are gone. But still.....if I were a little younger......

[NurseCard, ADN]

I think there are some areas that are more autonomous where you won't have a huge problem. I think it will also depend on the facility.

I worked in ER for about 5 years and we only had one doc who was an A$$. He lasted all of about 5 months and then he moved on. The rest of the group was awesome!!!! We all got along VERY well!!!

I don't know what it is about ER docs, but they generally seem to be much cooler than other docs. Perhaps it is because they work SO closely with the rest of the team (nurses, techs, unit clerks) and they have learned that they HAVE to be respectful and try to get along with those people.

[Kymmi]

I work in ICU and I agree that there can be some rudeness however I find for the most part if you are competent in your job then the doc is respectful. I know there are still going to be those with the "god complex" and those are the ones that are going to get the phone calls at 3am for a Tylenol or laxative order because after all they are the almighty and therefore really shouldn't require sleep.