L.B. Path

To new nurses, I would advise you to go into the field with your eyes wide open, be ready to swim like a duck and always make lemonade out of the lemons.......but don't ever become so discouraged before you try it that you decide you don't want to do it.....I am a flexible type of person and have enjoyed a career in nursing that I could not have enjoyed in any other field. I have worked in many positions and had that "darn near broken back syndrome".....but when my back was hurting the most my heart was often singing joyously for the DIFFERENCE that I know that I made in an individual's life.....I didn't get into nursing for the money...I guess for me it is true, there is NOT enough money in the world....I DO draw a decent paycheck......but for ME, I have never associated my nursing career with the paycheck.....It is as though they are separate entities....In the most extreme case, when I have been near overwhelmed by finding myself in areas that could be considered, "unsafe", I have spoken up.....I wont assume a shift without enough help to back me up when I am charge Nurse/etc/etc.....and interestingly enough, I have always been given the support I need. I am not unreasonable....but patient safety and care is utmost in my career life. I don't NEED the $$$ as much as I need the piece of mind that my patients will have adequate care. After 13 plus years of Nursing, I would STILL advise someone to go into nursing because there are so many options available......Just like for me now, I am getting ready to go on for my Bachelor's and then higher......and then have hopes to teach nursing.......Those who are after the $$$$ can sure find an easier way to make it....Those who desire to make a difference with their lifes, will find nursing more than satisfying....but know your heart and know yourself....Then, you can determine what YOU have to offer to another.....take care of yourself.....and love each other.....IF you are capable of doing that......THEN, you will make a QUALITY nurse and THEN a nursing career is the right one for you.