2nd career nurses, are they happier?

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I am 35 and will be entering nursing school as a second career soon.

I was wondering how many nurses out there that chose nursing as a second career, are happy in their jobs. Does anyone wish they hadn't gone into nursing?

So many nurses talk about being miserable and burnt out, but I was wondering if it is different if you started nursing later in life.

Thanks.

I started nursing school at age 35 and am now a new grad. I was an office manager for years. I have been working as an RN since October 8th. I have days I come home saying to myself stupid girl, what were you thinking? Those are the days that I have patients who treat me like their personal slaves or perhaps not even a 1 minute break to use the bathroom. But days like today, with a patient who everyone branded as a pain in the butt who I touched - priceless. This job is physically and mentally exhausting at times, but when I come home and feel I made a difference it's just the most awesome feeling :)

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I don't know the answer to this, but here's my theory: those who entered nursing school because that's what was expected of them rather than them wanting to do it, I would imagine would not like it nearly as much as someone who has either dreamed of being a nurse from a young age, or who decided later in life that nursing was for them and then worked their butt off to become one.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I was a factory worker for several years before entering nursing, so this would be regarded as a second career for me.

I am an extreme introvert who does not like socializing with people, so my personality does not mesh well with the "people skills" that are required of nurses. I knew that my deep introversion might potentially clash with this job description well before enrolling in a nursing program. Frankly, I do not like the social interaction aspects of my job. However, I enjoy the flexibility, scheduling, career mobility, and income that nursing has provided me.

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Specializes in Emergency, Trauma, Flight.
I am 35 and will be entering nursing school as a second career soon.

I was wondering how many nurses out there that chose nursing as a second career, are happy in their jobs. Does anyone wish they hadn't gone into nursing?

So many nurses talk about being miserable and burnt out, but I was wondering if it is different if you started nursing later in life.

Thanks.

that will all be up to you~~

:cool:

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