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What is the career success rate for Registered Nurses
Thank you for agreeing to this informational interview. My name is Eric. I am a Cleveland Job Corps student, and I am reaching out to you because I believe I would enjoy a career in #healthcare #nursing #registered-nurses nurse or LPN, and I would appreciate your perspective on the practical aspects of working in this area.
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Hillary’s Answer
Eric, It is wonderful you are considering a career as a nurse. I am not a LPN, I am a RN. Both types of nurses are needed in this world. RN requires a bit more schooling as I'm sure you've found in your searches, but what also exists are LPN to RN programs. Many of the LPNs (LVN where I live) that I know are going to a bridge program for LPN to RN. You choose whatever is right for you at this time.
Being a nurse was not my first career choice. In fact, it wasn't even on my radar. I was studying physics, engineering, and space science. I had no idea what went on in the healthcare world. I made the switch a few years into my other studies and it was tough. I found the schooling to be difficult and didn't always make sense why we learned a certain way. Being a seasoned nurse and looking back I understand why nursing school is taught the way it is. I love what I do! I work in an hospital and on an ambulance. My specialties are critical care, trauma critical care, and critical care transport. My favorite part about being a nurse is being there for my patients and their families on the darkest and scariest days of their lives. Don't ever forget that what your patients are experiencing is not a "typical day" for them and they will be scared and need guidance and YOU are their advocate. Maybe they don't know the right questions to ask, what they are supposed to be doing for aftercare, what medications to take and why, or how to take the medications safely. This is where you come in. And not to worry... you are not expected to know everything. Just know your resources that there is usually somewhere to look up the answers and you always have a team with you.
One last thing I'd like to mention is that there are so many opportunities with nursing. You can work in a hospital, nursing home, pediatric center, ambulance (flight or ground), case management, forensics, anesthetist, surgery, out-patient centers, clinics, doctor's offices, cosmetic, research, and so many more. Good luck!
Being a nurse was not my first career choice. In fact, it wasn't even on my radar. I was studying physics, engineering, and space science. I had no idea what went on in the healthcare world. I made the switch a few years into my other studies and it was tough. I found the schooling to be difficult and didn't always make sense why we learned a certain way. Being a seasoned nurse and looking back I understand why nursing school is taught the way it is. I love what I do! I work in an hospital and on an ambulance. My specialties are critical care, trauma critical care, and critical care transport. My favorite part about being a nurse is being there for my patients and their families on the darkest and scariest days of their lives. Don't ever forget that what your patients are experiencing is not a "typical day" for them and they will be scared and need guidance and YOU are their advocate. Maybe they don't know the right questions to ask, what they are supposed to be doing for aftercare, what medications to take and why, or how to take the medications safely. This is where you come in. And not to worry... you are not expected to know everything. Just know your resources that there is usually somewhere to look up the answers and you always have a team with you.
One last thing I'd like to mention is that there are so many opportunities with nursing. You can work in a hospital, nursing home, pediatric center, ambulance (flight or ground), case management, forensics, anesthetist, surgery, out-patient centers, clinics, doctor's offices, cosmetic, research, and so many more. Good luck!
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Meg’s Answer
Eric- I almost didn't bother answering this because Hilary answered it so beautifully! However, I will add a couple of things....
I would really recommend you go straight for your RN and specifically your BSN. Some states are fading out LVNS altogether and your options are limited. Now, this might change because of the projected shortage but you really should aim for RN.
Also, good news (although it irks me!!) there is a high demand for men in nursing so you might be able to get financial help . My son is currently a junior at University of Louisville and loves the nursing program.
I have been a nurse for over 30 years and have never had a problem getting a job. I love the flexibility. You can try new parts of nursing. You can be a traveling nurse. Just so many options.
Good luck!!
I would really recommend you go straight for your RN and specifically your BSN. Some states are fading out LVNS altogether and your options are limited. Now, this might change because of the projected shortage but you really should aim for RN.
Also, good news (although it irks me!!) there is a high demand for men in nursing so you might be able to get financial help . My son is currently a junior at University of Louisville and loves the nursing program.
I have been a nurse for over 30 years and have never had a problem getting a job. I love the flexibility. You can try new parts of nursing. You can be a traveling nurse. Just so many options.
Good luck!!