Second Career Nurses (30+ years old)

BJZMom · Nov 2, 2006

I have always desired to be a nurse. After careers in pharmaceutical sales and public health education I decided at age 35 to complete a second degree BSN program.

I would remain in nursing...

... if my employer did not insist that my family come second to my job

...and if I am permitted to care for my patients using critical thinking skills and not spend valuable time serving as the chamber maid, waitress, and gopher.

RNwntaB · Nov 2, 2006

I am 32 & decided on nursing as a "third" career. 1st career = Office Manager / 2nd career = daycare provider.

Reason I decided on nursing - Lots of reasons: I always had an interest in it, but had a bigger fear. When I left my office job, I cut my pay by 75% or so. I wanted to be with my two kiddo's & not have them in daycare. Having the daycare, I've learned I don't mind taking care of babies & I really enjoy the times I can tell I've made a difference! Daycare wages won't help me pay for my kid's college or give me any retirement....

I want to have flexibility so I can still be here for my kids & not send them to daycare. I want a job where I can be challenged & rewarded. I want a job where I can make enough $ that we don't have to barely "get by" and having 50+ hours wrapped up in it. I want the ability to be able to try my hand at different areas of care if/when I desire to. I want to touch people's lives & also be touched!

What will keep me in nursing?

-Knowing that I am making a difference.

-Knowing that I am able to comfort a scared/sick child/patient/family member.

-Knowing that I am able to put $ towards my children's education

-Knowing that I am able to put $ towards our retirement.

-Knowing that I have the flexibility to switch departments or even employers if I need/want to.

-Knowing I don't have to work 50+ hours and to barely make "min. wage"