RNs- good and bad please

[CaliforniaDreamin]

I have always wanted my DDs to go to a 4 year college. My dd 15, is starting to look into a 2 year RN program at the local community college. This, of course, has thrilled me to no end. If this is her decision, I will NEVER nudge her in the direction of a 4 year college. I think its a wonderful profession, job security and very good money.

Unfortunately, we don't know anyone personally who is an RN. She did some research and found out she needs to take Chemistry in HS, but that's no big deal.

Anyone care to give the good and the bad? I explained to her that she would be dealing with a lot of bodily fluids, death,long hours etc. But that's all I really know.

If anyone could give a rundown of nursing school and how you feel about being an RN, this would help give her a lot of insight into what to expect. She will be a sophomore and wants to make sure she is doing all she needs to do in HS to be accepted into a nursing program.

TIA!!

 

[dakcp2001]

I just finished Nursing school in May. It was a 2 year ADN program I completed and I also have a 4 year degree in another field. My best advice: your daughter needs to volunteer or get a job at a hospital. That way she can see first hand what an RN does on a day to day basis. There is no substitute for first hand experience and it will look good on her application. A lot of people have misconceptions of what a nurse does, and this way, she can see for herself if it is something she wants to do! It is a messy, but rewarding career if she chooses to go that route! BTW in my area, the hospitals hire the 2 year school over the local 4 year schools because it has more clinical hours. That will vary from place to place of course, but one thing to consider is how strong the schools clinical rotations are regarded. Sorry if my post doesnt make sense, just finished an 11 hour shift and my eyes are closing.....tireeed

 

[kelleyrn2000]

In the area where I live:

It is hard to get accepted into the program. GPA and NLN test scores are so important!

Anatomy and Physiology: dissection of fetal pig or similar animal.

Nursing school: lots of busy work, tedious, stressful, study all night. Basically if going to school full time, it's hard to keep a job and social life. But the friends you have in nursing school you will cherish!

The job.
Pros: helping people, more stable job security, decent pay (although work is hard), decent benefits.
Lots of variety of jobs to choose from, depending on your personal interest.

Cons, many places the RN has a high patient load. Hours can be long, many may stay late to catch up on charting, etc.
Shift work for many positions isn't always convenient for those with kids, but works for some.

The hardest part of being a nurse for me is dealing with death. From elderly to infants, I have been there and it's something that affects me very deeply. Most patients do have a good outcome, but unfortunately as a nurse you may be in the position of taking care of a dying patient. There are also outpatient settings for nurses, though, where this would be less of an issue.

 

[CaliforniaDreamin]

Thank you both for the info...I'm going to call the hospital and see if there are any kind of "candy striper" programs.

I know that the colleges around here only accept 30 to 40 into the ADN a year. But she is a good student and I know she will do well in the placement test.
Dissecting a pig may be a problem, but it's better than a human cadaver.

A couple more questions. Do you regret getting into the field? Also, say someone wanted to specialize in a certain field, like pediatrics or labor and delivery....is that extra schooling or on the job training? I have no clue!

She was born prematurely and with pneumonia and had to spend the first 7 days of her life at Brenners Childrens Hospital. I think she would like a job in the NICU there. I don't know if something that specialized would require a BSN or not.

 

[DisneyFirefly]

I'm a CNA (nurse's aide), not a nurse, but I'd recommend that your daughter look into becoming an aide or something first. I was looking into nursing school and then became a CNA and then changed my mind about nursing. I've decided to go back into hospitality and go back to school in January. That's just my decision, though. Everyone's different, obviously It's just not for me. I was working in skilled nursing care and now work in assisted living. Our duties (I'm on night shift, so it's different from what the day people do) are med reminders and laundry. My partner does the meds and I do the laundry.

Nurse's aide info for your state. I was able to take a free program through a nursing home, so if that's something your daughter is interested in, you may want to call around and see if any nursing homes have a program like that. My old facility also paid for my state exam and I had a guaranteed job after passing it.

 

[dakcp2001]

Thank you both for the info...I'm going to call the hospital and see if there are any kind of "candy striper" programs.

I know that the colleges around here only accept 30 to 40 into the ADN a year. But she is a good student and I know she will do well in the placement test.
Dissecting a pig may be a problem, but it's better than a human cadaver.

A couple more questions. Do you regret getting into the field? Also, say someone wanted to specialize in a certain field, like pediatrics or labor and delivery....is that extra schooling or on the job training? I have no clue!

She was born prematurely and with pneumonia and had to spend the first 7 days of her life at Brenners Childrens Hospital. I think she would like a job in the NICU there. I don't know if something that specialized would require a BN or not.

Right now it is extremely difficult in my area for a new grad RN to get a job period, I am applying out of state and relocating. I know it is a regional thing and fluctuates from year to year. Most new grads these days start with "whatever job they can get" and then aftr a year or two transition into the specialty they want. It is usually on the job training. In some areas of the country, new grads are able to jump right into a specialty field. The nurses I work with tell me I need the skills of a Med Surg floor before transition into a specialty to make me a better nurse, but to each his own. There is no one path! Many new grads go right into a specialty and do well.

 

[kelleyrn2000]

It really depends on the hospital if they want the RN to have the BSN or not. In my area it is preferred, but most areas it's not required.

I sometimes have a few regrets. It's hard being in healthcare when you have kids, in some settings. In my case, I am specialized, and if I call in sick, there usually isn't anyone to cover my shift. So I feel guilty for calling in, and if I go in, I feel guilty for not staying with my kids.

Most of the time I am very happy with my job. We all have bad days no matter what the career, it's just a bit harder when people's lives are on the line. I think if your dd really cares about helping people, then she will make a good healthcare worker. She could try asking to shadow a couple of nurses in different areas to see if it is what she would like to do.

 

[minniecarousel]

Both of my sisters are RNs. They started out in the 2 year AS program at the Community College. They both eventually went on to get their BSN's. One went onto get a Master's in Nursing and now teaches other nurses (she certifies them in certain procedures & runs seminars on-site.) The other sister left nursing and became a Certified Medical Coder - so she is dual-credentialed.

So starting with the AA program is a great start. If she ends up wanting to move up in nursing, she'd be able to get the BSN while working as an RN.

The local AA (or AS) programs around here are very competitive. I agree with her doing some hospital volunteering.

 

[bumbershoot]

Dissecting a pig may be a problem, but it's better than a human cadaver.

Opposite experience for me. Pig is fetal, so never born, product of industry. Cadaver chose to donate themselves, was an adult. Cadaver dissection is the most fascinating and amazing thing I ever did in school (BS in exercise phys, DC in chiropractic, did dissection for both). In my opinion everyone in the medical field should do it. (and not just watch like my classmates who were grossed out)




Stepmom did a 2 year program (plus pre-reqs beforehand) at a community college in CA. After graduation got a job, has had that job for, oh, 12+ years or so. (I just the time b/c she got pregnant with my 15 year old half sis while in prereqs, LOL) She works in the NICU, and is shift nurse now. Makes most excellent money.

The cons are only from my side. She's changed, entirely. She was always a loving, happy person who was dealing with the relative jerk she married (my dad is good to me and my family but not to anyone else)...but after a few years in the NICU she's cold as ice. No emotions, no empathy, no sympathy. She's not the same person that I knew since I was 7...I am glad that she has a career she dreamed of while still in high school (she started pre-reqs at 40), but I'm sad for what I've lost in a formerly beloved stepmother.

 

[Avojeo]

Thank you both for the info...I'm going to call the hospital and see if there are any kind of "candy striper" programs.

I know that the colleges around here only accept 30 to 40 into the ADN a year. But she is a good student and I know she will do well in the placement test.
Dissecting a pig may be a problem, but it's better than a human cadaver.

A couple more questions. Do you regret getting into the field? Also, say someone wanted to specialize in a certain field, like pediatrics or labor and delivery....is that extra schooling or on the job training? I have no clue!

She was born prematurely and with pneumonia and had to spend the first 7 days of her life at Brenners Childrens Hospital. I think she would like a job in the NICU there. I don't know if something that specialized would require a BN or not.

I have no regrets getting into Nursing. I love what I do especially taking care of my patients. However the hours can be long, patient loads can be challenging as well as your co-workers if they are not picking up the slack on their end.

I am from Greensboro and actually work at High Point Regional. I do know there is a volunteer program at HP as along with other area hospitals. I believe all of these programs start at the beginning of the summer.

I take it you live in Winston Salem? You are lucky because there are many nursing schools options in the area and highly suggest she looks into as many as she can to see what each one offers as well as the requirements to get into their program. Since it is so competitive she would have backup plans. Also most have the same requirements she would just have to apply to each one and submit transcripts. We have the clinical groups from about 3-4 of the different schools on my floor and they look like they would be an awesome school to attend.

From what I seen to get into Brenners, they hire their own. Meaning you need to be working for Baptist to get in. I highly suggest if that is the area that she wants to work at look into their volunteer program at their facility or even if they offer a "shadow" program, where she can go and observe a nurse for a day or two. This way she can ask what she needs to do to get a job there.

I agree with the PP about become a NA. Most nursing school if not all require you be a NA before you apply. I was a NA but didn't work as one before nursing school and I know I struggle the first two semester of clinicals because I was not familiar with the hospital setting and giving baths in a timely fashion. However the ones that had worked as a NA flew by with flying colors.

Let me know if you have any more questions, I will be glad to help you in any way.

 

[golfgal]

Not a nurse but my mom was and I have several friends and family members that are-around here a 4 year degree is the only way to go. You are in competition for your job and every edge helps. Also, nurses here are paid very well-starting around $50K for a hospital job and around $100K for about 10+ years of experience. With a 2 year degree the pay isn't quite as high, still good though. Also, if she ever wants to move into management, she won't be considered if she doesn't have a 4 year degree. I know this isn't the same everywhere but that is how it is here.

 

[SydSim]

BSN prepared RN here - 23 years and counting. Have worked in maternity the entire time, and all of it doing night shift.

I entered nursing at a time of shortage, so I had my pick of assignments. I make great pay.

Nursing school was hard, lots of studying and clinical rotations could be stressful. My job is easier - at least I'm done after 8 hours. When in school, it seemed like a 24 hour job.

Yes, doing the 2-year ADN program is shorter and less expensive, but I always cherish my college days living on campus. For an 18 year old right out of high school, having that on campus experience is great. I wouldn't trade if for the world.

In some areas, hospitals prefer their RNs to be BSN prepared. It is cheaper to get your ADN, then get your BSN while working (and allowing your job to pay for it, if possible). But to me, the whole college campus experience is priceless. Several of my ADN nursing colleagues have said how they regretted not going away to college. JMHO

 

[dakcp2001]

Another thing to consider, if the cost of college is an issue, a 2 year degree is a good place to start, as it allows you to work as an RN and a lot of hospitals will pay for you to go back & complete your BSN. Most offer some tuition reimbursement if not covering all of it. Plus she will be getting RN pay 2years longer than if she did a 4 year right away. I know it varies around the country, but in my area BSN and ADN mostly get paid the same. There is one hospital that pays BSN a quarter more per hour.

Working as a CNA or NA at a hospital is definately a HUGE help in nursing school, but at 15, she is too young I think for that. I think starting as a volunteer is best, and if she wants to pursue it, she can take the CNA course when she is a little older. In my area you need to be 18 and they do fingerprints and criminal background checks etc to ensure patient safety.

There are a lot of options too, she might like Physical Therapy or Radiology etc, so being in the healthcare enviroment will be good for her.

I envy the people that know what they want to do so young. Be prepared that she may change her mind many times before she finished college! I used to work in admissions for a local major University when I was younger, and our stats showed that most students change their major at least twice before they graduate. So when choosing a college, it is important to make sure there are a lot of options should she change her mind.

 

[dakcp2001]

BSN prepared RN here - 23 years and counting. Have worked in maternity the entire time, and all of it doing night shift.

I entered nursing at a time of shortage, so I had my pick of assignments. I make great pay.

Nursing school was hard, lots of studying and clinical rotations could be stressful. My job is easier - at least I'm done after 8 hours. When in school, it seemed like a 24 hour job.

Yes, doing the 2-year ADN program is shorter and less expensive, but I always cherish my college days living on campus. For an 18 year old right out of high school, having that on campus experience is great. I wouldn't trade if for the world.

In some areas, hospitals prefer their RNs to be BSN prepared. It is cheaper to get your ADN, then get your BSN while working (and allowing your job to pay for it, if possible). But to me, the whole college campus experience is priceless. Several of my ADN nursing colleagues have said how they regretted not going away to college. JMHO

ITA about the living on campus thing! My first degree is in another field, I wouldnt change it for the world. Living away at 18 is great, and I think the living & learning independence thing is a huge part of the college experience IF you can afford it.

 

[ajk912]

Is this a state by state thing, because I was under the impression that for even for the RN two year program you need to do college pre-reqs first? You couldn't go into the RN program just out of high school, you'll need to do about two years of pre-reqs at the local community college/college first. From what I understand, it takes about 4 years to get a RN degree but for the LPN (I think that's the one..the one where you only get about $13 an hour) that one is only 2 years, but hard to get a job with the 2 year degree.

 

[lacrosse_lady72]

Is this a state by state thing, because I was under the impression that for even for the RN two year program you need to do college pre-reqs first? You couldn't go into the RN program just out of high school, you'll need to do about two years of pre-reqs at the local community college/college first. From what I understand, it takes about 4 years to get a RN degree but for the LPN (I think that's the one..the one where you only get about $13 an hour) that one is only 2 years, but hard to get a job with the 2 year degree.

For my local CC, it's 1 year doing pre-reqs (writing, math, cell biology, A&P, human development, nutrition, general education) which takes a min of 4 quarter terms because cell biology is a pre-req for the 3 terms of A&P. Once accepted into the CC's nursing program* it's 6 terms of class work.

*That nursing program is extremely competitive, they had 1300 people apply and they only accept 125. So, having a 4.0, another previous degree, medical field experience are important. But it's a good thing because with completion of the AAS, you get to bypass the extreme competitiveness of the BSN program at Oregon Health & Sciences University.

 

[MomRN]

I graduated with my BSN in May 2009. I also worked at the hospital a year before graduation.

The good: I like nights, I like working 3 days a week, I like being able to schedule 8 days off in a row without taking a vacation day. The pay is good. However, I love working with people. I'm not grossed out by urine, stool, vomit, or other bodily fluids. I love wound care.

The bad: Working nights is difficult for family life. Have to work holidays, and weekends. there's also the downside of the job... people die, people are demanding, some coworkers are great, others aren't. Hospital poilitics. However, I don't know of any job that doesn't have it's cons.

Granted, I'm a new nurse. I still have a lot to experience. However, I couldn't imagine a better profession for myself. I eventually want to get my Master's, so that's why I went ahead and did my BSN. Had I just wanted to be a RN and go no further an Associate's would have been fine. The pay difference at my hospital is around $.50/hr.

 

[dakcp2001]

Is this a state by state thing, because I was under the impression that for even for the RN two year program you need to do college pre-reqs first? You couldn't go into the RN program just out of high school, you'll need to do about two years of pre-reqs at the local community college/college first. From what I understand, it takes about 4 years to get a RN degree but for the LPN (I think that's the one..the one where you only get about $13 an hour) that one is only 2 years, but hard to get a job with the 2 year degree.

The CC I went to does allow people to do the entire program in 2 years, although it is SUPER difficult. The students that did that (there were about 6 in my class of 75 students) have to commit full time to the nursing program, no working, no family, no free time etc etc. It means taking Nursing, A&P & Micro all at the same time. I do NOT recommend this. Most schools wait list people for a year or two which gives them time to knock off some prereqs. I recommend completing the A&Ps, Microbio, and non nursing classes first if you can. Some people did them over the summer.

 

[pioneer89]

What is the job availability and comparative pay for non-hospital nursing jobs? Things like working at a doctor's office, or "9-5" clinic or home visit nurse?

Just curious, because I have several casual friends whos wives are nurses, and it seems like the biggest complaints they have is working in hospitals with the off-hours, under staffing and such.

 

[laurie31]

Usually the pay is less in places like doctor's offices and schools; places that are M-F, no weekends, no holidays. Think of it as a trade-off. Better schedule = less money, although positions like that do exist in hospitals too.

Outpatient areas such as same-day surgery, pre-admissions, dialysis gain hospital pay (and benefits) but usually aren't open on weekends and holidays.

Also, you don't HAVE to choose a job where there are bodily fluids to clean or dying patients if you really find you can't deal with that. I think everyone has certain things they'd rather not do, but often after you graduate, you find that pee and poop aren't as gross as you thought.

I don't mind blood or guts, and I actually enjoy working with the dying - it's very rewarding, but it is certainly not for everyone.

There is such a large variety of options for nurses, that someone should be able to find a place that suits them. School nursing, industrial health (employee health), or even reviewing charts for insurance companies or serving as an expert witness. You aren't limited to hospital nursing.

In fact, I have two co-workers who are RNs and also have their law degrees. I almost don't need to bother saying that this is a lucrative combination.

Yes, the economy is bad now, making it hard for new grads to find jobs, just as it's hard for ANYONE to find a job, but the economy won't be like this forever, and the nursing shortage is very real and is only getting worse. When the money becomes available to fill all the empty positions "out there" then I think RNs will be able to once again pick and choose.