New Beginnings...

nursegreen · May 21, 2008

Well, if you can make it through the USMC for 13yrs then you can probably handle nursing. It's a lot of hard work and very demanding at times but it is truely rewarding. It is something that you really have to want. Salary depends on where you are and nurses don't make what they deserve (my :twocents:). I find the ED/Trauma/ICU very exillerating and a huge adrenaline rush. If you fit that picture, you'll probably enjoy it. As for schooling, it will go by faster than you think and don't let the four years hold you back!!! Good luck!!

:nurse:

Harleyhead · May 22, 2008

Hello all,
I have recently been separated from the USMC after 13 years of honorable service for injuries I sustained while on active duty.
I find myself now, at the age of 37, wondering what's next? The fast pace and constant action of an Emergency Room really appeals to me.
My question is, I know that there is at least 4 years of school involved and lots of hard work. I have no college and possess a High School Diploma. I have average intelligence and common sense, but I fear I might not make it through all the schooling.
I was hoping to get some advice on becoming an E.R. Nurse as my new career goal. How is the job? The pay? Is it worth it? Any advice would be appreciated.
Thank you,
Blud

Blud it only takes 2 years. I know of some marines who have done this nursing stuff. When you finished mcboot camp you knew you could anything and you still can. PM me for more info.

TazziRN, RN · May 22, 2008

Actually, with no college under your belt it will take you at least 3 if not 4......you have to have pre-reqs done before nursing school. You can do it, if you really want it. I spent many years in the ER and loved it until I burnt out, but I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. Best wishes, and thank you for keeping the peace.

BLuDKLoT · May 22, 2008

Thanks for the quick replies guys.

Harley, I tried to PM you but it said "no contact info".

How is the pay lets say after 2 years on the job? What is the starting pay? How soon can you begin working as a nurse while in school, or can you?

Is making $100,000 a year in So Cal out of the question? I really want to find a job that really pays well, is rewarding, challenging, exciting, fast paced and that provides the adrenalin rush you receive from organized chaos. This topped my list along with Helicopter Pilot, Private Security Specialist, and Police Officer.

I know that after being a Marine for 13 years I can handle literally anything. My only concern was memorizing all the medical terms/names for the various body parts internal/external, medications, diseases, etc... Sounds like allot of studying, tests, and homework! BLAH!

So how does a guy just shy of 40 years old, with limited college credit (military transitional credits) begin becoming an E.R. Nurse?

Thanks,

Blud

Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP · May 22, 2008

Seriously.

If you can learn all the stuff you had to learn for the USMC, then you'll be able to learn the stuff for nursing school. It is probably a different kind of stuff, but if you know how to learn, then it shouldn't be an issue.

I think if you want it badly enough - and I gather from your post that you do - then you'll be able to get through the schooling. And if you have common sense that goes a L O N G way in nursing school.

And, as an aside - thank you. Marines have an uber-special place in my heart, as my brother is one.

:usmc:

TazziRN, RN · May 22, 2008

You start out by hightailing it to your local community college and sign up for the pre-reqs needed for nursing school. This will be general ed as well as the sciences. Then you go to nursing school for two years. Yes, there is a lot of studying and memorization, but you can do it. It would be easier if you don't have a family, or at least no small children. No, you cannot work as a nurse while in school, but if you get your CNA you can do that while in school. Some ERs will hire CNAs. Another option would be to get your EMT and sign on with an ambulance company while in school.

After graduation, some facilities will hire new grads right into the ER, but make sure that if you do that you get at least 8-10 weeks, if not longer, in a preceptorship. Other facilities will require that you get at least 6 months in a general care unit first.

nurturing_angel · May 22, 2008

I just wanted to add my sincere THANKS and a big :bow: for all your service to this country. I also have extra-ordinary respect for Marines as my hubby did his stint in the Marines. I also have a nephew who wore the uniform for a short time

Good luck with your nursing and ER career. I know you will do great!

:bowingpur

BLuDKLoT · May 22, 2008

Thanks for the support, it really is appreciated. Being a Marine is all I know...I hope it helps in my pursuits.

Blud

TazziRN, RN · May 22, 2008

I'm an Army brat through and through........am I kicked off the thread?

:hpygrp:

Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP · May 22, 2008

I'm an Army brat through and through........am I kicked off the thread yet?

Taz, I saw a t-shirt the other day that said

A ren't

R eady for

M arines

Y et.

:offtopic:

BK, I think you are going to do fine.

If anything, you already know how to discipline yourself and get it done, even if it's something you really don't want to do. There is plenty of that in nsg sch. (But there's no name-calling such as what you get in boot.)

I went to NS with a few people from several walks of life who were going back into nursing as a second career; they did great then and have since gone on to do wonderful things.

Best of luck to you!

TazziRN, RN · May 22, 2008

*hmph*