Is 32 too old to start nursing school?

[JasonC]

Hi all,

This is my first post here...I just happened onto this site via a car message board I'm on...

Anyway...I am considering becoming a nurse and wonder if I am too old to start? I'm a guy...32...single btw:D My mom thinks its a great idea...she has been a nurse for a long time(more of administration though)....I told her I thought about becoming a CNA first, then go on to get my R.N. She said go the EMT route first then get your RN....she said CNA's do all the scud work...is how she put it.

My goal is to work in the ER....I talked to one nursing admin where I work and she said I would need at least one year of Med-Surg, before I could work in the ER. Am I better off going the EMT route? I guess I am a little confused?

Thanks for any insight.

Jason

[zdatny]

I was 37 when I started my Nursing course. I am approaching my 55th birthday in a few days. I am still nursing. I love what I do , and can't think of anything which would fulfill me the way Nursing does. Being an RN has enabled me to play a small part in improving the lives of some unfortunate people who found themselves in need.

[pollyevans]

Hi there go for it I am 55 and in year 2 of my nursing degree in New Zealand I hope to have some years nursing soon

And I am enjoying every minute of study

[nursedawn67, LPN]

Heck no...it's never too late! I graduated from nursing school 3 years ago when I was 32, and I'm married and have 3 kids. I say if that's what you want....GO FOR IT!!!! :)

[Allison S.]

The average age of my nursing class first year was thirty. I was 32, and I think that our oldest member turned forty that year. We all did great. We had a 100% pass rate.

As for what to do first, working as an EMT may pave the way for ER work, but when I enquired around here, I heard that you needed previous work as an RN in an ICU.

CNA work is certainly better prep for nursing and will give you a better idea of what you are getting into. Around here, you don't really have to be certified to work as a nursing assistant. It helps if you are in nursing school, but there are jobs going unfilled, so most institutions are willing to train anyone who is willing to do the job.

BTW, I'm married. Sorry.