Going back for ADN

[mabear3]

Would love to hear other's thoughts on this! I have been a physical therapist for 19 years. I knew as soon as I started that it wasn't for me. I've learned that I am much too nurturing to push my patients the way they need to be pushed. I would rather make them comfortable than make them feel sick and/or miserable all the time. I work in a inpatient rehab setting and have done short stints in home health, acute care, continuing care retirement community, and skilled nursing facility. It has been my dream since the mid 90's to go back for a nursing degree. My kids are 15, 14, and 12 now and I feel I finally am in a good place (time wise anyway) to go back. I have chosen an ADN program as I already have a BS and MS in physical therapy. I will have to retake A&P 1/2 since its been more than 10 years since I last took them. The school I have applied to incorporates them into the program if still needed. I scored 94 on TEAS test and received my acceptance letter yesterday. My question is, graduating with an ADN but also having an MS and BS in a closely related healthcare field, will I be more likely to find employment afterwards than someone who does not have a previous healthcare background? I have considered an accelerated BSN but with college for my kids on the near horizon I don't want to spend as much money on my education right now that I would spend at a 4 year university/college. I also would like to avoid retaking many of the classes that may be necessary for the BSN - stats, evidenced based research, etc. Thoughts?

[lauraline]

Most of my ADN and BSN programs where I live require that you took your science classes within the last 7 years. So I would definitely get the specifics on that from your schools. Have you thought about going straight for a MSN for non-nurses? A few of the universities where I live have such programs.

[mabear3]

It wasn't a requirement for me to take A&P prior to being accepted. Most of my courses transferred since I took them as part of a BS and MS degree. Thank God I won't have to retake English, Psych, or Chemistry! I thought about MSN but I'd have to move away from home to do that which I absolutely don't want to do or afford to do since it won't be long before my kids are starting college themselves.

[mabear3]

I have to take A&P again since it's been longer than 10 years but the other classes transfer. I will ha e to take micro during the program as well.

[lauraline]

That doesn't sound too bad if its only the A&P and Micro. At least you don't have to go through all the other prerequisites. Definitely go for it. Sounds like the timing is right with the ages of your kids. And how awesome would it be to have a mom going back to school to follow her dream of becoming a nurse as a career change! It just proves you can do anything you put your mind to. I would be so proud. :)

[mabear3]

Thank you so much for your encouragement!!!?

[mabear3]

Thank you so much for your encouragement!!!