Nurse seeking career change

[Tress24]

Hello all!

First here is a little bit about myself. I am an BSN prepared nurse. I graduated from an acredited University at the top of my class. I did very well in all of my nursing courses and enjoyed the schooling behind my degree. However, during school, I always HATED clinicals! At that point in time, I thought I hated clinicals because I was never acting in the role of the nurse. I was acting in the role of a PCA i.e. filling water pitchers, changing bed linens, providing peri-care. I didn't mind because I thought..."this is part of my training." By the time my senior year in college began, I was still performing these things and hardly ever performing nursing duties. So, I decided to apply for a college co-op program and was accepted. I worked along side a preceptor for a year and a half in the role of the nurse. It wasn't bad, but I can't say that I enjoyed it. I now have a year and a half of expereince, both in the hospital on a med/surg unit and presently in a LTC/rehab facility. I don't hate nursing by any means, but I generally don't feel that it was the right career choice for me. I hate working holidays, weekends, being demeaned by doctors, and working with nurses who wouldn't be able to tell you their "right from their left." I am in a position that requires an LPN. At first, I was okay with it, simply because I was a new grad. However, I'm not now and any opportunities that arise within the company that require an RN I apply for. I get turned down for these positions because, unfortunately, management likes to play "favorities." I'm not simple minded enough to think that this doesn't go on elsewhere, but I feel that I'm not living up to my potential. Especially with the degree that I have. Quite honestly, I think to myself, "do I even really want those positions?" I can honestly say that I love the knowledge behind my degree, but I don't enjoy the career. I do love to train other nurses and thought "I'll go into teaching." However, most places require more experience or a Master's degree. I guess what I'm asking is are there any options out there for me? Fast track to another degree? I think that I would like to become an elementary science teacher....but I'm afraid I'll hate it just as much as nursing. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!! :)

[surferbettycrocker]

wish i had some words of wisdom but i don't. i am still waiting for it to get better and it has not. i just get more tired and numb in the brain with each shift that goes by. guess just wanted to let you know you are not alone. start working on an NP degree then teach! you would love the advanced patho and pharm that go along with it ibet:candy:

[Purple_Scrubs, BSN, RN]

Honestly, you might dislike teaching just as much. I would try and shadow a teacher for some time before you go through the education for it. I am a school nurse, and I love the kiddos so much that I toyed with the idea of switching to teaching myself. After being in this world for a while, though, and seeing all the bs the teachers have to go though...nope, I'll stick with school nursing