Too old to begin career in ED?

Nurses General Nursing

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Specializes in ltc/subacute/ER.

Hi all! I am a new grad, I passed the NCLEX in Dec. I was offered a job in ER with a 12 weeks training program longer if I need it. I was also offered a position at a sub acute rehab. I am not sure which position I should take, I have always had an intrest in ER nursing but I am doubting myself partiallly because I am an older nurse (40) and maybe at this stage I should be looking into different areas of nursing?? I am physically fit no worries there about keeping pace, I guess just worried about my lack of experience I've never put in a line, Idk any advice will be appreciated thank you.

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PSYCH, PP, CEN.

I graduated from nursing school at the tender age of 46, did 1.5 years med surg then went to the ER. No problems. Be aware though, that a lot of ERs are staffed with mostly younger nurses and there can be a generation gap if you have trouble fitting in with much younger nurses.

I fortunately ended up in an ER with all older nurses and it is a great environment.

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PSYCH, PP, CEN.

The 12 week internship is awesome. I would go for it. You see and learn so much in the ER.

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Congrats on passing!:yeah: I don't have any advice...only encouragement! I just wanted to say that I'm a prenursing student and I'm the tender age of 41...well actually I'm waiting on an acceptance letter from a ADN or BSN school :uhoh3:. Any who....also wanted to say you can do anyone IMO 40 is not old...if the ER is your desired postion I say go for it!

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Specializes in ltc/subacute/ER.

Thank you all for the encouragement! I am going to go for it, whats the worse that can happen (dont answer that lol) I dont have a problem getting along with the younger generation most are surprised to learn my age so hopefully I will fit in ok. Thanks again I know it will be hard but I am going to keep praying, learning and improving my skills.

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Specializes in chemical dependency detox/psych.

Take the ED position--it sounds like they're willing to train you, which is wonderful.

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Specializes in EMERGENCY!!!.

Congrats on passing your boards! Working in the ER, nurses know how to expected the unexpected and enjoy the adventure. That includes having new nurses around because you truly never know what to expect from new grad and that's okay! My only advice to new nurses is make sure you are truly receiving a decent orientation and make the most of it. Learning about IV's and basic care should not be intimidating because it gets better/easier with time. Good Luck and have fun :)

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Specializes in Peds, School Nurse, clinical instructor.

Congrats on your new career, I would say go ER all the way :)

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ER hands down!

Don't worry about fitting in with the younger nurses. I think as long as you have a willingness to learn you will be ok.

Welcome to all the drama, madness and mayheim! I absolutely love working in the ER! I hope you will too!

Good luck to you!

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Specializes in PP, Pediatrics, Home Health.

I had a girl from my class graduate when she was 50 and started a job in the ED and she loves it!They had no problem with her age.I say go for it if I were you!It sounds like an amazing opportunity for you :)

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Congratulations on the job offer and never, ever let a silly thing like age hold you back.

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Specializes in ltc/subacute/ER.

thanks again to everyone for making me feel really good about my decision to start ED nursing. I have a quick question for all of you if I may. I was wondering how long it took you to not feel like you stuck out like a sore thumb as the new grad who knows nothing lol?

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