What Am I Thinking?!?

[MommaK]

Hi all. I am new to allnurses and am really enjoying and learning a lot from your posts. As a 49 year old woman, I recently have been moved to start a new career in nursing/healthcare. I have been researching and trying to gain as much knowledge as I can and I am very tempted to start with STNA training and certification. I guess when I say "moved to start a new career in nursing", I am looking for something more personally fulfilling while contributing to society. I currently earn $15 an hour in a FT office job. I've been there 8 years and it's comfortable, but not fulfilling. With my children being grown, I think it woud be a great time to move on to something else since I could be flexible on what shifts I worked, but I am concerned about not wanting to earn less than I do know. Does starting as an STNA in probably LTC and continuing my education to LPN or RN sound like a smart way to go? I am in northcentral Ohio. Can anyone give me an idea of how the wages would compare between STNA/LPN/RN? Since I am in the "decision phase" here, any advise about training, schools, or your personal experiences would be greatly appreciated.

What am I thinking?!? Am I too old to start this "adventure"? :)

Thanks in advance!

~K

[Heather43230]

I started out as a home health aide when I started RN school, it was rewarding and taught me things that most nurses I work with do not care to do. If i see a call light on I will answer it and try to assist the patient even if it is to provide personal care, to shaving, etc. As for pay scale here in Columbus Ohio the average STNA starting wage is about 10-12.00 dollars an hour, LPN 14-18.00 dollars an hour, and RN 22-25.00 dollars an hour. Of course it will depend on whether you work in LTC, Doctor's office or Hospital. Nursing is a very rewarding career to go into, it is one where you can touch another persons life by helping them recover from illness, etc.

Heather

PS. You are never to old to change your career, you only need to have faith in yourself and courage to step put of your comfort zone. :)

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I agree that changing careers is often a new lease on life. I started nursing at age 45. As for STNA or LPN first - that so much depends on your motivation and salary needs. Some people quit before completing their goal because they get tired of school. Others use the time to work while learning.

[gcupid]

You're too old...., only if you think you're too old. Good luck in whatever you decide to do.