Lydia Said:

How will the new health care bill affect my career as a registered nurse?

We Answered:

The bill won't even be in effect until January 1st, 2014, and it won't be completely executed until about 10 years after that. Don't listen to the irrational comments saying Hospitals and Nursing Homes are doomed, those are just people that are pissed because they're being taxed slightly more so that the less fortunate have a chance at healthcare, Do your research before you make stupid comments, people! Medicare will still provide the traditional benefits while putting certain restrictions in place to keep insurance companies from taking advantage of the elderly. If anything, It will help hospitals and nursing homes because the bill is increasing health care coverage to another 32 million Americans! Where are they gonna go when they get sick? Duh.

Kay Said:

what types of previous work experience can help prepare someone to pursure a career as a registered nurse?

We Answered:

Experience as a health care assistant will help you. I'm a student nurse with nearly 20 years of experience as a health care assistant. Some of the students with no care work experience have been horrified that nurses actually have to deal with faeces, vomit, blood, sputum etc. I feel my experience as an HCA has prepared me for the hard work, long hours & matter of fact attitude so I'm taking it all in my stride. I mostly worked in nursing homes but prior to applying to uni I got a job with the NHS so I'm already used to the routines etc of the hospital where I'm now training. If you're in the UK the bank work as an HCA is a good preparation for becoming a nurse. http://www.jobs.nhs.uk/

Loretta Said:

Can you help with a question about a career as a Registered Nurse?

We Answered:

RN on the orthopedic floor of the hospital, the RN on a rehab floor. The nicu nurse and nicu PT. I am a PT in a public school and I definately interact with the school nurse.

Glenn Said:

Is being a Registered Nurse a fulfilling career?

We Answered:

This question is one of the most hilarious questions that I've ever heard. Are you truly asking such a question? Do you know what's it like to bus your *** for 12 straight hours without a lunch break because you are caring for patients all day? The nursing is profession dedicated to those who care. Nursing is one of my most important profession next to being a mother. How much can you pay someone for caring? You can't put a price on that dear. What ever they pay you, it's just really has more to do with paying your rent and living. They can NEVER pay you enough to spend a lifetime caring for hundreds and thousands of people.

It's seems to me that you want to be a nurse, but you are looking for approval that this is the right direction for you. Listen, when I first started nursing school, I was in the same boat. I questioned it for months until I finally did it. It has been by far the most rewarding experience of my life. I'm mean that because I'm in tears right now. It's the HARDEST thing I've ever attempted because nursing school is so tough, but whatever struggle I was been through, it was worth it.

Listen, there are so many different facets of nursing. You can even find a job where you don't have to work in a hospital! You can become a traveling nurse and specialize in many different areas. You should do what I do now, I'm working as a tech. I do the job of a nursing assistant in addition to phlebotomy and EKG. Please believe me when I say that it's a tough job. I am running around on my feet all day! My feet are so sore right now, but I'm loving it because I am learning so much. Keep a humble attitude and you will become a wonderful nurse.

So why don't you apply for a nursing assistant job and see if you like the environment. Watch the nurses and see if that's something you would like to do. Then pray about it and ask God for direction. I did and God has been guiding me.


Good Luck.

Don't be afraid to contact me with your questions. I will gladly answer them.

Luis Said:

How does a registered nurse who is also a mom balance career and family in light of shift work?

We Answered:

I am a brand new LPN and I have a 3 year-old daughter. I am going to school to become an RN. I just started a job where I work 8-hour shifts, but I have to say that so far, balancing school and family was much harder than balancing work and family! School takes up much more time and the schedules are crazy and always rotating. At least when you're working, you can come home and relax, as opposed to constantly doing homework and writing papers for school. One plus to nursing though is that you can always work PRN. Also, if you work in a facility with 12-hour shifts, you only need to work 3 days a week to be full-time (in most). You could spend the other 4 with your family. How many people can do that?

It is not easy. But as long as you have dependable child care and are willing to work your tail off, you can do it. If not, don't even think about it!