So, do I become a nurse or what?

2amigos · Feb 14, 2003

You mention that you have short-term memory issues. Are those issues signifigant enough to keep you from retaining information? Is it possible for you to start taking pre-requisite classes now? It would let you know how you can adapt your studying so that it is successful for you, and the time will go by faster.

Good luck to you in what ever you decide!

Cheryl Moore

susanmary · Feb 14, 2003

Sorry about your accident -- great that you are moving ahead with your life. From your post, it's difficult to ascertain the extent of your short-term memory loss. Your memory loss may interfere with your ability to be a nurse -- there are many factors. I agree with the above poster -- take a prerequisite course as a start. You will find the right profession -- but perhaps you can shadow a radiology tech and an RN to see the demands/complexities of both jobs. If you are committed to find a career in the medical field, speak with a school counselor. You should be able to get some special services in school to help you succeed. Best of luck to you in your future endeavors!!!! Sue

Satori · Feb 14, 2003

I can remember things if I really focus on remembering them. I had to learn memory tricks for that stuff, whereas I never had to before!

My problem is that I used to have a VERY good memory. I only had to hear someone say something once, and (if I deemed it important), I would remember it. Now, I don't know if I'm just average or below average. There are alot of times where people tell me things, and I don't remember exactly what they said about half an hour later. But, I do remember to ask them!

I'm not so concerned about my ability to get through nursing school. I've proven to myself that I'm capable of learning things. (Actually, for the first time in my life, I've memorized my license plate number.) I'm really concerned about how vital a role short term memory plays in performing your job as a nurse. Does anyone have any information about this concern???

susanmary · Feb 14, 2003

Short-term memory is essential in nursing.

TeresaRN2b · Feb 14, 2003

I think that both programs will be challenging and if you want to be a nurse you should go for it. You very well may have to come up with methods and systems to aid you in remembering things, but if you are capable of getting through radiology school you can get through nursing school and I am sure be a great nurse. You may have to carry around a pen and pocket notebook full of checklists and reminders for yourself, but if you can come up with a system to assist you I see no reason not to go for it.

litepath · Feb 16, 2003

It is normal to have to hear and repeat things three times to log it into long term memory. Short term memory is just that. So, you may want to talk with a psychologist and get some helpful hints at remembering things. I always repeat what I hear or read if I truly want to remember it, otherwise it just leaks out. And for me unless i continue to go back an reread things from past semesters and truly integrate it in my daily lexicon, it just doesn't stay very well.~~good luck~~

justjill · Feb 16, 2003

satori, i don't know what to tell you, but good luck with whatever you decide to do :)

javamom · Feb 16, 2003

Satori, check around to your different nursing schools. Our university has told everyone in the class that if you want to be a nurse but have any type of learning disability to talk with them and they'll do whatever necessary to help! Yes, short term memory is important for nursing BUT there are ways around it!

If nursing is what you want to do and you're driven...DO IT! :) Good luck to you!