Job Satisfaction for RNs?

[callicarpa]

I'm an aspiring second career RN...finally finishing pre-reqs and working on applications after being on the fence for awhile. I'm coming from a field (architecture) with VERY low job satisfaction- I don't think I've ever met any architect aside from studio owners who has ever said they really like their job, plus it's a very unstable field and the work feels very trivial. I'm just a little nervous that I might be jumping into another field like architecture where everyone is overworked, stressed, bitter, regretful of their life choices and constantly daydreaming about escape routes.

I know burnout is common in nursing too and it is also a tough job but it seems I hear more nurses saying that they do love the job, that it's meaningful, etc.

My reasons for getting into nursing are that I NEED to be doing something meaningful, have always found health topics, biology, etc interesting, like physical jobs where I'm moving around and on my feet, need a more social/interactive job (less desk/computer screen) and want something more secure than my current field. I think I have a pretty good tolerance for stress, difficult situations, and of all the various jobs I've had in my life I really liked the fast paced, multi tasking, social and physical sides of waiting tables.

So despite the challenges can you honestly say you love nursing and wouldn't trade it for another career?? Or am I getting into architecture 2.0?

[Davey Do]

My reasons for getting into nursing are that I NEED to be doing something meaningful, have always found health topics, biology, etc interesting, like physical jobs where I'm moving around and on my feet, need a more social/interactive job (less desk/computer screen) and want something more secure than my current field.

This portion of your post pretty much says why I got into Nursing, callicarpa, and I've worked in the medical field for over 38 years.

It's had its ups and downs, but all in all, I'm satisfied with my decision. And if I had it to do all over, I'd choose to be a Nurse again.

The very best to you in your endeavor!

[Toadette, MSN, RN]

Nursing is my first career and I would most definitely do it all over again. One of the things I love about nursing is the flexibility. With my nursing experience, I can do so much with my career. You could spend a lifetime as a nurse and not even scratch the surface of career possibilities.

I don't depend on the warm, fuzzy moments. As others have noted, they're few and far between. I come home knowing that I've done my best and sleep well at night.

[mmc51264, BSN, MSN, RN]

I started my nursing career late in life. I took care of horses for many years/worked for a veterinarian. I have taught school. None of these were easy jobs. I believe many people are not prepared for what nursing REALLY is; how hard it is. But is is also extremely rewarding and I am not sure I would have been able to this job earlier in my life, but I love it now. Warts and all.