Need Advice...

[candi361]

I am considering returning to school for a degree in nursing with the hope of ultimately becoming either a Nurse Practitioner or School Nurse. This board has been a godsend in regards to finding out what the reality is and also not thinking I'm too old at 36 to get started.

However, as I've started looking into schools and the pre-reqs necessary, it has ocurred to me that I need to find out if my health situation may be an obstacle to the plan; early last year, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and had some stressful events take place that led to mild anxiety. I also have some blood sugar issues. My blood pressure is under control with meds, I haven't had any more bouts with anxiety attacks for over six months, and I function fine as long as I eat something every 5 hours or so. My question: do any of you think that nursing school is going to be too much to take on with these health things going on?

I have wanted to be a nurse since I was 6 years old but my mom discouraged it: "Why be a nurse when you can be a doctor?" she said. I never brought it up again. But 30 years later, I've realized that it's still my calling and I'd like to still pursue it if I can. I will be completely bummed if my health issues prevent me from doing it, but I'd rather be realistic than get in over my head. If that's the case, I've considered getting my degree in Health Science and pursue Health Education in some form as a second option.

I appreciate any opinions and input, thanks in advance!

[gwenith, BSN, RN]

The only real answer is to try. There are a lot of us with "health issues" of one kind or another and some you would never know. But it is only by trying that you will find out if it is too much for YOU.:)

[candi361]

Thank you!