What Is Your Opinion?

Hi all,

I'm going to be entering college in August to begin taking my prerequisites for the ADN program. I'm 41 yrs old and for the last 20 years I've worked in LTC and wish to do so after I obtain my RN.

My question is, do any of you find that many of your peers discriminate because of a nurse's age? What was it like in school?

The reason for my asking is that I've read several posts by younger nurses who think the older nurses should retire and let the younger ones take over. That's a bit discouraging to me because I've always felt that with age comes a certain amount of wisdom. Granted, if a nurse is beginning to do things that would endanger a patient, it would be time to move into a different aspect of health care or retire.

I've worked with several older nurses who were outstanding and I learned so much from them. When they retired many of us were sad to see them go. I'm really concerned that there are younger nurses who have a preconceived notion about their older peers. I hope that I can help negate some of those notions by being the best nurse I can be. I've always loved working in LTC. I live in a rural Texas town and most of the patients I have cared for I have known for the better part of my life. Many patients were dear friends of my family. I have loved them all, each and every one. I've always treated my patients as I would want myself, parents, and grandparents treated.

Anyway, if any of you could tell me how you feel older nursing students are perceived by the younger students and by instructors, I would greatly appreciate it. I do know of one younger student who will be a great study partner. My 18 yr old son will begin at the same time as myself and we should be going into the RN program at the same time. He is really excited about this new adventure together as am I.

Thanks in advance,

Tishira