oldskool61

Best Wishes, Grace! Remember- relax, Breathe, and be yourself, for YOU!

Call me crazy... I am an LPN with 21 years of nursing behind me; most of my experience is in out-patient work. currently i work as an Occupational Health Nurse in a manufacturing plant... (great people and a unique job, but very limiting). I recently completed my BSN program and anticipate RN boards in Dec. I feel such a a strong pull towards getting back into the in-patient setting RIGHT NOW- to get re-aquainted to the essence of nursing, and to start thinking more broadly, and functioning in the acute care setting- I feel that the time is right! I am more professionally focused, and less intimidated by in-patient nursing, as was the case when I first graduated as an LPN, way back when... This presents a challenge- both positive and negative... I'm up for the opportunity and can see myself moving forward, now- and after I become a licensed RN. But at the moment I am a bit concerned about bringing myself up-to-speed, since I've been out of the game for a long time. Any words of wisdom? :heartbeat HELP!

I LOVE this e-store- you'll find just what you need. Good luck! (CPNEgrad07, As I always say; if it works- TALK ABOUT IT!)

Wow! I have to give you a big thumbs up for being so candid. I'd like to comment, and just let you know that you're not alone in this challenge. It IS normal to have some doubts about your career path, especially while you're in school... The first, second or 100th go-around! The real truth is what is genuinely in YOUR heart and soul, and it is true that you (and only you) can truly realize your strengths. Relax, breathe, and don't be so hard on yourself. As a fellow Nursing Student, (returned to earn my BSN at age 43)and 20-year LPN; My truth is that I've attempted college algebra 6 times, and quit each class in the 3rd week, because of my lack of self confidence! OUCH... (But- I am determined to prevail). I am sure that you may have felt awed and amazed when you observe seasoned Nurses in action- in their element, doing what they have been trained to do best. As a nursing student, we all get overwhelmed and seriously question their own ability to become as competent, knowledgeable, compassionate, and PROFESSIONAL as these nurses. This- is where the rubber meets the road! There's no shame in realizing that this avenue of health care may not be your calling! Health Care has so many roads... ALL vital and unique. You have to feel absolutely great about you; and you'll know what to do. Hang in there and do what feels absolutely right- for YOU!

I have recently considered buying an nurse's apron, but the thought of one more thing attached around my waist made me go crazy... FYI- it may seem lame, but a few years ago I worked with a Nurse that wore a sleeve-less nursing vest/jacket that had multiple pockets. She made it look easy, without being weighted down. You may have to look online at different nursing uniform sites- Good Luck!