callicarpa

I'm about to complete all my pre reqs and about to start applying to nursing schools. In the meantime, are there any jobs that pre reqs would qualify one for or at least help in getting hired? I've thought about CNA or phlebotomist but can't spend more time and money in the certifications for those right now. Anything else related to health care?

I'm an aspiring second career RN...finally finishing pre-reqs and working on applications after being on the fence for awhile. I'm coming from a field (architecture) with VERY low job satisfaction- I don't think I've ever met any architect aside from studio owners who has ever said they really like their job, plus it's a very unstable field and the work feels very trivial. I'm just a little nervous that I might be jumping into another field like architecture where everyone is overworked, stressed, bitter, regretful of their life choices and constantly daydreaming about escape routes. I know burnout is common in nursing too and it is also a tough job but it seems I hear more nurses saying that they do love the job, that it's meaningful, etc. My reasons for getting into nursing are that I NEED to be doing something meaningful, have always found health topics, biology, etc interesting, like physical jobs where I'm moving around and on my feet, need a more social/interactive job (less desk/computer screen) and want something more secure than my current field. I think I have a pretty good tolerance for stress, difficult situations, and of all the various jobs I've had in my life I really liked the fast paced, multi tasking, social and physical sides of waiting tables. So despite the challenges can you honestly say you love nursing and wouldn't trade it for another career?? Or am I getting into architecture 2.0?

OP, someone earlier in the thread wrote that you truly have no idea how interdependent you are on the resources and systems of others, which have allowed you to be where you are today - and I can't agree more. I'm getting so tired of seeing this 101-level Ayn Rand libertarian B.S. and have watched it blossom into full-fledged fascism in the US, and it's happening in Canada too. This isn't a game or a leisurely philosophical argument, it has real and dangerous consequences. It's also pretty obvious to me how your attitudes will translate into sub-par care for certain patients.

I am about to start nursing school (second career, age 30) but have also just been diagnosed with autoimmune neuromuscular disorder (myasthenia gravis). I am hopeful that once I start treatment I'll be able to get symptoms under control, but right now the weakness, shortness of breath, double vision, inability to do most physical tasks (holding heavy objects, walking long distances, etc) is debilitating. Even eating a meal is exhausting fro me. There is no guarantee that treatment will be effective and the disease is different for everyone. Is there anyone else out there with MG or something similar who is also a nurse? I have wanted to become a nurse for a long time and would hate to quit right when I'm about to get started for something that might go into remission or be controlled with treatment... if it's any help I'm most interested in working in community & environmental health