indecisive

Originally posted by kaybe:

I am a Medical Ass't. I received this degree in 1986. I worked for about 4 years in the medical field after getting this degree.

Since the time above I have stayed home and have taken various pre req classes for RN.

I did take a CNA course in 1999 and have been working as an CNA the past 18 months.

I am now making $12.57 an hour. I am thinking about going back to school full time. Is it worth it as far as pay is concerned.

My insurance is paid for as long as I work at this job because my husband also is employed there. He makes about $15 an hour.

I would appreciate any input at all.

Hi kaybe. You indicate you are currently working as a CNA. Is your sole motivation for pursuing a nursing degree money? If so, I am very reluctant to recommend that you continue to pursue nursing studies unless your priorities for practice encompass more than making money.

I feel very strongly that potential nursing candidates need to view nursing as a career and not as a means to make money. You'll be sorely disappointed if you pursue nursing for money. I have begun to encourage those interested in nursing to consider how much effort and time you will invest to continually elevate your occupation. For instance, will you join a nursing organization? Will you regularly take CE courses? Will you attend state board meetings? Will you regularly read in attempt to keep up with changes in legislation, practice, or procedures that affect nursing practice? Will you learn all the legal issues that affect your practice? Don't let what I wrote intimidate you because every occupation that calls itself a profession have these elements.

Nursing can no longer afford to have people enter nursing without a holistic focus. We are now having to overcome the tragic effects of giving up power and influence to people who have devalued us over the many years because we had a tunnel vision for patient care. If you decide to pursue nursing, best wishes on your endeavor.