Looking into changing to a career in Nursing in CA. Advice?

[ZombiPhill]

Hello, I'm brand new here but I have read a lot of posts on this site and decided to join.

My name is Phill, and I am considering changing careers. I currently work as a Building Automation Technician doing 40 hours a week but I don't feel fulfilled in my career, I've been doing this for a little over 3 years.

I was told by my mother and grandmama to go into nursing straight out of high school (I'm 32 now) but I didn't feel like going into it at the time because I didn't want to be told what to do (being a teenager and all.) I took some classes and have some general ed classes transferred to the school of my choice, which is the same school I earned my certificate of Building Automation at.

I decided to make this career change because my daughter was born a preemie. The amazing care and the wonderful staff that helped her survive made me want to achieve something more in my life, and lit the fire that my mom and grandmama wished was there back in 2001. I want to be someone that people remember fondly for being there in their time of need, a small beacon of hope at a difficult time.

My question is this: is this a viable option? Is it going to be as difficult to find a place in the nursing field as most people say? I am both excited and scared to change my lot in life. I am already set up for a CNA class to get my foot in the door and get some experience. This is something I know I would love to do, and I'm hoping I can get some sage advice.

Thank you in advance, I appreciate all comments.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

First of all - I just want to assure you that anything's possible... if you have the ability and tenacity.

BUT - please don't go into nursing based on a (completely unrealistic) idea that you will be a hero to patients and their families.External validation is a very rare thing for nurses. We don't get 'warm fuzzies' and undying gratitude. Sick people are cranky and sometimes downright hostile. Families are hyper-critical. We get lambasted if the room decor is not snazzy enough or ESPN is not available on the TV. We get blamed if the physician is unavailable or the pharmacy is bogged down so pain meds are late. We are the ones who have to deal with complaints about the food... and have to ensure "five star customer service" no matter how intense or difficult the workload. Yeah, not all glitter and puppies.

Contentment in nursing is more about internal motivation and 'rewards'. If that's not going to be enough, you may want to go in another direction.