MSW to RN - is this wise for me?

[asafko]

I am considering making the switch from school social worker to RN. I have my Masters and am a Licensed Social Worker as well. I was looking into an accelerated program in either Philadelphia or Southern New Jersey. I am a mom to 3 and work part time right now. Doing this would definitely be a financial hit for us that makes me scared to take the leap...is there anyone out there who took this path? How long did it take to really get into the field working? Did you have any regrets?

Thanks for any help you can provide!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

I'm curious - why do you feel the need to move to Nursing rather than moving ahead in your own career field? I'm certain you must have the intellectual horsepower & motivation to do it . . . but why? Nursing is not a panacea for unmet aspirations... in fact, it is much harder to move ahead in nursing than in other 'helping' professions. Salaries are very compressed & hospitals all over the nation are in the midst of paring down labor costs by reducing RN positions. Not a good time to switch, particularly if your income is important to the wellbeing of your family.