2nd Career in Nursing

pixierose, BSN, RN · May 12, 2016

Only you would know, and can truly answer, if this is a good decision.

I'm a former teacher, now in nursing school. I'll graduate in December with my BSN. Was this a good decision *for me?* So far, so good.

I like that, when I become a nurse, I won't have to grade papers into the night, or develop programming to meet the curriculum needs of my students during my kid's soccer games. I like that I'll be working with my patients, as opposed to "I'm 'supposed' to be working with my students but administration keeps adding more meetings to my day and I'm having a hard time meeting with my caseload."

Basically, I'm trading in one set of difficulties with another. My husband is a nurse; he's still sleeping right now (on this sunny, bright 80 degree day) because he worked last night, a night where everything bad that could happen pretty much did. But it's a set of difficulties I'm willing to live with.

What would you be happy doing?

Nursing school - for me and all of my classmates - is time consuming. You do have to want to be a nurse to succeed. You do have to make time for yourself, though, and if you have a family it can be challenging. But it's definitely doable. This board has a great many tips on how to succeed.

Raven Sierra, BSN, RN · May 12, 2016

Second career here. No regrets yet...heading into my senior year in nursing school. It's a difficult question for someone else, as your reasons for becoming a nurse might be different than mine. My reasons were as follows (not in any order):

1. I wanted to help hurt people. My former career had me on the sidelines as people got hurt, and I had to watch but couldn't help. I didn't want to do that anymore.

2. I am fascinated by the sciences of nursing and medicine. I love learning how the body works and how it can go wrong (pathophysiology). I also love learning how interventions change the physical response.

3. I don't like routine work days. My former career wasn't routine, either. I enjoy the challenge that comes from not knowing what's coming.

4. I enjoy people. Most days.

5. I wanted a secure job. When the recession hit, my former industry was hit hard. I have been downsized before. That was an experience I never wanted again. As a nurse, I'll always have a job somewhere.

Your reasons may differ.

As far as learning A&P 1&2, it's like a big puzzle. You have to try to see how the smaller parts work in the whole organism. Know your learning style, and use it. I'm a visual learner, so I got the A&P coloring book. Do what works for you, but really digest the material. It will keep coming back.

ETA: Do not underestimate the intensity of nursing school. I was unprepared for the sheer volume of information we would be learning in a short time. I thought I'd be ready for it, as I already have a bachelor's degree in another field. It is unlike any other undergrad degree that I know. I study about 40-50 hours per week in addition to class time and clinicals, if that gives you an idea. For me, it's worth every minute. But just be aware.