Is it for me?

Math is rather important for dosage calculations.

Hi, i am currently a highschool student and am thinking about becoming a nurse. I've done alot of research and i think this field is for me. I've just got a few questions.

Some of the school's i've looked at have collaborative programs...colleges with universities, and they give you a B.Sc.N, i was just wondering what that means exactly and what the difference between that and a RN is?

How physically demanding of a job is it?

I'm not very good in math and i don't know how much that will matter. Also i know i'll be able to give the patients IV's and needles, it's just i don't want to hurt them while doing it. will i get better at it and not hurt them after awhile.

I'd appreciate any answers you can give me, and thank you for reading this.

Meaghan

Don't worry Meaghan, we all have doubts and questions when we start out.

(Assuming you are here in the states) After you get your BSN you take NCLEX test to receive your RN. There is alot of talk on this word about which route is better to pursue. You don't have to actually get your BSN to become an RN. You can become an RN with an associates degree (2 year degree?) also. I think there are even other ways to go about it.

The physically demanding part is hard to answer. Nursing has so many different fields. You can sit behind a desk all day or you can be on your feet 12 or more hours a day. You don't have to decide which route to follow until you are closer to graduating and getting your RN. There is a lot of "brain work" involved in nursing. You have to be able to think quickly and logically. Math does not have to be a strong point, you will learn it if you apply yourself.

As far as needles and IV's go, it takes practice. It is scary at first, but with each one you get better at it. It is now 2nd nature to me. I don't even hesitate when another nurse asks for help starting an IV.

Good luck in your journey. Keep reading on this board and you will be amazed at what you will learn.

Terri