nativegirl64

Vintagestudent, It is wonderful to see someone else who is in the same boat. I really love being in the medical field. I am also not as fit as I was in my early years, but my heart is as strong as ever. I do nursing, phlebotomy and records as well as checking in/out patients, answer phones, assist dr with procedures, administer injections and breathing treatments, ekg, holter monitors, test patients for pt/inr and glucose. I get more tired on days we have less patients. I love being with the patients and staying busy. I feel I have accomplished something after a long day at work. Of course, there are "pets" or favorites. As I mentioned before, it is a lifelong dream. The one thing that pushed me full force into the field is in 87 we lost a child- stillborn. All I kept being told was that it was God's fault. It was his will. But I wanted to know the medical reason this happens. I had to find a way to know I didn't cause it. After finding other parents like my husband and myself, I found out it wasn't as uncommon as I thought. My husband is now permanently disabled from chronic residual pesticide poisoning. So another chapter to learning more about the medical field. His symptoms are always changing. I am always finding myself hungry for knowledge of the medical field. I want to learn as much as I can. One thing I have learned about going into the medical field later in life is that I have more chance to study, I retain more information and make better grades as a result. The best thing is having a wonderful family backing me in whatever I choose to be when I grow up. lol. Our 17 year old son thinks it is cool that his mom is sitting at the dining room table doing homework like he is. In my spare time I am also getting an Associates in Healthcare Mgmt online. The saga continues. As far as shoes, I try to make sure I have thick soles on mine. I do a lot of walking, bending, etc. As far as strength, I keep up on that, I try to stay as active as possible. lol. Sorry if I am babbling. Thanks and God bless.

Betty, I know I don't have a lot of experience compared to a lot of nurses out there. I have high praise for those that dedicated their lives to take care of those who need them. I have always wanted to be a nurse. I read Madam Curie, Florence Nightingale and the like. When I was a kid I would write down any medical word I heard on the shows we watched. Then go to school and drive the librarian nuts. I am in a similar situation. I started and Rn program 20 years ago. Life led me back to FL after my husband was injured and wasn't able to finish it. After 3 children I now carry a CNA (for 4 years now) and working in a Physician office, and a phlebotomy certification. My intentions are to continue up the Nursing "ladder." As long as your heart is in it and you have the stamina to keep up with the demands you are never too old. The world needs caring, good-hearted nurses no matter what age they are. I have seen nurses that are sweethearts and others that have personalities of stumps. Follow your heart and God will put you where he wants you to be. BTW I am 44 this year. My kids and husband encourage and stand behind me all the way.

I was wanting to know the same question. I currently hold a certification in FL for CNA and Phlebotomy. I had inquired at a hospital for a CNA position and the HR manager seems to think I have to totally retrain for both certifications. However, I have been a CNA for 3 years and a Phlebotomist for nearly 6 mo plus. I am confused. I know you can get nationally certified in Phlebotomy. Can you do the same for a CNA? Any info would be greatly appreciated. We are wanting to leave FL asap.