Young nurses

I have a question regarding nurses who are young. Ages less than 30. In fact anyone who looks young as well. I find that older patients tend to be skeptical with younger nurses and even doctors. I've had patients tell me that I'm young and I feel as though I am not taken seriously. What would your advice be for a young nurse facing these issues? And has anyone had this happen and what did you do?[/quote']

I have been told I look younger than my age by many people. I commonly get called "miss Tammy"and a DON I had called me "kiddo" all the time. I just ignored it. I figure looking younger in 10 - 20 years will definately be an advantage ( if my knees and back don't give out by then).

I've been told at times I look younger than I am, especially when pts hear how old my children are. I've always attributed these perceptions to the dim lighting of night shift & the power of a well utilized pca.

I look young, but I have very serious attitude and wear glasses. Because of that I had some pt. comment you look so young for your age! When I ask them how old do they think am I They think I'm around 30 but I'm actually 25. But that's probably because my pt. know I'm married with two kids (working long term, so, all the same pt.) this add to the age.

I think you just have to prove yourself. People will respect me as an authority when I do things worthy of respect like providing quality care and good information. I doesn't mean I don't get asked if this is an after school job, or "Would you like to be a nurse when you grow up?" here an there, but then there are also those who I impress and are shocked to learn I am so young.