How to tell if you are cut out to be a nurse?

Nursing Students General Students

Published

Hello there,

I know it's kinda stupid question since I'm already in RN program. But I'm just curious that if the instructors or experieced nurses could tell the new nursing students are fit or not for the nursing career? I meant if can the features of nurse can be nutured??

I had my first clinical rotation of first semester done today. I was very nervous in the beginging and things turned out to be alright. I enjoyed taking care of my old patient who had pressure ucler. I know I have compassion with bubbling personality. I know it takes more than just compassion to be a nurse. I am never been a detailed-person. I'm more a feeling and creative person. The reason I'm thinking is that I don't want to regret later or find out I'm not cut out to be a rn after all the money and time invested.

Any honest suggestion/answer would be appreciated. :rolleyes: :wink2:

Specializes in NICU.

This is an interesting question.. I'm kind of in the same position as you. I just started my 2nd year of a 4 year BN program. And I'm wondering if I'm cut out for the career.. don't really want to be wasting time or money. I think this must be a common concern. But to answer your question I think you have to think about what you would want in a nurse if you were patient. Somebody who's friendly, empathic, has a sense of humor, good communication skills, knowledge of nursing, etc. Some of these skills you may not have, but you pick up while you're in the program. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and your strengths are what'll make you a great nurse!

Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Not a dumb question at all guys! I've been in nursing for 16 years and personally I feel being a good nurse is a personality thing. The ability to be upbeat, compassionate and caring go very far in becoming a great nurse. Skills can be taught. However, in my opinion, caring is something that is innate. You guys seem on top of things since you question your abilities. Nothing wrong with that - you learn by being exposed to new situations. You guys rock!

Do you think skills over personality are more important in some areas than other. Like I'm looking at areas like ER, OR, something fast paced because I'm great with my hands and I have the intellect but I'm not necessarily upbeat. I'm not gloomy or anything but I'm not ray of sunshine either.

. I know I have compassion with bubbling personality. I know it takes more than just compassion to be a nurse. I am never been a detailed-person. I'm more a feeling and creative person. . :rolleyes: :wink2:

that's the nice thing about nursing, there's so many different areas you can go in...some like the fast pace and relative anonymity of ER work, others love long term care, others like primary care in the M.D.'s office and yet others love teaching, either patients or other nurses. You'll find something that matches your strengths.

Thanks all for your input!! I love taking care of pts. I know for sure now No matter what I'm gonna do my best to make it through. :wink2:

+ Add a Comment