help

[alps2sea]

I am fifty, have a BA in history with quite a bit of science. I am looking to switch careers and was hoping to get some feedback from any career changers out there. Maybe I'm too old to get hired? LPN, CNA, RN, Med Tech., Radiology... what is the best path to take to insure employment? I think I would find it fulfilling to work in a Hospice role, but any feedback/thoughts from any of you would be greatly appreciated. Also, advice on schools in Portland area? Thank you for your help.

Tony

[twinkletoes12]

Of course the fastest way to get into healthcare is to get your CNA. You can take this class free at a LTC facility that offers it. That's what I did. Just call some facilities and see when it's being offered. Usually no work commitment required either. Nursing school is very tough to get into and most have expiration dates for the prerequisite classes. When did you take your sciences? Most schools could care less if you have a prior degree. That's what I am finding out. I would go to the nearest school(s) in your area and talk to an advisor and see what the requirements are and what are the expiration dates for the nursing prerequisites. It's never too late to change careers! Good luck!

[caliotter3]

A CNA certificate is the fastest way to a job, albeit low paying. The best option is RN. The other options have more limited job opportunities than RN or CNA. As previously stated, you need to research the nearby nursing programs and their requirements and make your decisions based on what you learn about them. Many people get a CNA certificate before gaining admission to nursing school. That allows you to get some experience in patient care and may help you in the admissions process. Good luck.

[marachne]

Of course the fastest way to get into healthcare is to get your CNA. You can take this class free at a LTC facility that offers it. That's what I did. Just call some facilities and see when it's being offered. Usually no work commitment required either. Nursing school is very tough to get into and most have expiration dates for the prerequisite classes. When did you take your sciences? Most schools could care less if you have a prior degree. That's what I am finding out. I would go to the nearest school(s) in your area and talk to an advisor and see what the requirements are and what are the expiration dates for the nursing prerequisites. It's never too late to change careers! Good luck!

The one exception to "no one cares if you have a prior degree" is that to be in an accelerated RN program or a direct entry program (i.e. go directly into either psych np or midwifery) you need a prior degree. There are people starting RN programs in their 50's. Just recognize that floor nursing (and CNA work) is physically demanding, and you may want to think about how to do this career in a way that isn't a hospital-based bedside position.