RN-rural

Back in 1974, I took an apptitude test that pointed the way to nursing. Up until then, I never thought of myself as medically inclined. (In fact, I got sick at the sight of blood!) But after working in a nursing home, I knew I had found my "calling". It was very fulfilling to care for others. After the first few heavy bleeders, I got used to that, and learned how to be a good nurse. I started as an LPN, then went on to RN school. I have never regretted it, even tho, the pay and hours were not so good when I started out. I like knowing I am helping others. Today, there are many who get into nursing because it is a stable career with decent pay and benefits. I find many "nurses" who don't view it as calling but as a career. Most of them I wouldn't want to nurse me or mine. It takes more than booksmarts to be a true nurse. You must be willing to give of yourself, even if the patient doesn't appreciate you and your work. So, I do consider nursing a calling. Just like teaching. Your attitude is just as important as your education.

LOL! Pictures of stuff gross me out...but I can handle most things 'in person'...except eyeballs! -nancy [/b] I never saw a picture that grosssed me out, but green yucky sputum gets me--even worse if it's shooting out of a trach! I guess I knew I could be a nurse when I was able to go right to lunch after watching my first autopsy (wayn back in nursing school). Oh yeah, I don't think I would have shook the hand that squashed roaches!