What If....

CHATSDALE · May 16, 2007

many people have gotten into the program and decided it was not for them, yo can usually transfer credits into a program that is better suited for you

however from reading your post that you will probably find nursing all you would hope for

jjjoy, LPN · May 16, 2007

Like it or not, there are no guarantees or crystal balls so sometimes you've just got to take your best shot and go from there. Since you think you want to pursue nursing, then start pursuing. If along the way, you realize that it's not what you want, then you can change direction. There's nothing wrong with changing direction. At least it means you were moving, and not just sitting still, doing nothing until you magically "know for sure" what you want.

Another way to approach it is to just go one step at a time. Finish this course. Work as a CNA. If you can afford it, take your time instead of rushing. Take a few pre-reqs but don't rush to apply to nursing school ASAP and use that time to explore and learn about yourself and see how you feel about working with patients day in and day out. In the big picture, an extra year of "exploring" before making a bigger investment in your education might be worth it. People are different and what works for someone else may or may not work for you.

It can feel so stressful to worry about the "what if"s... but really, so what?! Even in the worst cases, people manage to make the best of it and usually learn a lot in the process.

GingerSue · May 16, 2007

can you work part-time at a hospital for a while

to discover if you like the atmosphere, etc?

what might you not like about nursing?

DaughteroftheKing · May 16, 2007

I am going to start applying for a CNA position in a hospital as soon as I finish this CNA class so that I could get the experience..

I honestly dont think, from what I now right now, that I would dislike anything about nursing.. it all sounds so adventurous, uplifting, and being a true servant of yourself to provide for others & all that sounds awesome..

Theres always just that thought like, man that would suck if I spent these 3 years in school & all that money & I ended up hating it.. but I really dont think thats gonna be the case, so... nevermind I guess! lol

YooperNurse · May 16, 2007

I did have a friend who went to be a nurse, did great in all her classes, but when she got into the field, decided it wasn't for her. There are some ADN programs that are 2 years, after the first you can be an LPN and make a bit more money while going for the RN. Being an LPN is a great way to see how you might like it. Another option is to be a CNA in an acute care hospital setting. Hope this helps!

pkapple · May 16, 2007

starting as a CNA could really help you decide! After all they get pure patient care, if you find you don't like bathing, ambulating, answering call lights and all the other "dirty" aspects of nursing care...well as a nurse you do all that and the more advanced meds, treatments, planning, and the ever popular paperwork.

you will build on your knowledge as go thru school and the more you see and learn the better start you will have as a nurse.

If you get part way or even fully thru the program and decide nursing is not for you, so be it. Remeber, there are so many levels and opportunities for nurses that I am sure you will find a niche.

Good Luck

RNperdiem, RN · May 16, 2007

I can't say I had the same worry, but I recommend going for the CNA. CNA's get the behind the scenes views of nursing, and much of what you do is nursing care as other posters have said.

Altra, BSN, RN · May 17, 2007

Life is an adventure, not a straight linear path. There is no crystal ball or guarantee. Also, consider that many, many people do not have just one progressive career path over the course of a typical 40-50 years of working life. If life sooner or later brings you to some position outside of nursing, that doesn't automatically mean that it was a waste of time.

Kudos to you for taking steps to gain practical experience in the nuts & bolts of day in-day out patient care -- this experience will nicely complement your education.

Here's hoping you'll also maintain strong involvement in things outside of work -- hobbies, friends, family time, etc. Careers are probably most fulfilling when they're balanced by other personal interests.

Good luck to you. :)

futurecnm · May 17, 2007

I am going to start applying for a CNA position in a hospital as soon as I finish this CNA class so that I could get the experience..
I honestly dont think, from what I now right now, that I would dislike anything about nursing.. it all sounds so adventurous, uplifting, and being a true servant of yourself to provide for others & all that sounds awesome..
Theres always just that thought like, man that would suck if I spent these 3 years in school & all that money & I ended up hating it.. but I really dont think thats gonna be the case, so... nevermind I guess! lol

You would probably know before you finish the entire 3 years. Nursing school is very hands on training, and you will find out in clinicals if nursing is for you. We have had a few people decide it isn't, and even one girl is finishing up the first year and not sure she wants to come back. I'm sure there are always things you won't like about nursing. It is very challenging, but I'm finding that as a student I find it rewarding. I do not work in the medical field or have a job as a CNA so I went into it pretty much blind. i wouldn't recommdend that but for me, it wasn't an option to get a job before or while going to school.

cappuccino · May 17, 2007

You'll probably find out along the way whether nursing is for you or not. One thing is for sure though. When you're in school ,it in no way compares to when you are on your own and working on a unit. It can be very overwhelming but most people make it through those tough couple of years.......