Thinking of Being an RN- Advice

K.,
I think there are many advantages of working as an RN, I have been one for 8 years and have enjoyed it. I didn't have children when I got my undergrad nursing degree, but I was raising one and had my second while I was in grad school. Many schools offer some of their classes online, which I think makes it easier for moms and other busy men and women to fit school into their lives. There will always be a need for nurses, and there is such a variety of jobs available in the field I think everyone can find the right fit for their lives. Of course it can be hard work, some jobs being more physically exhausting than others. As a single mother I imagine you will be working full time for the pay and benefits, but if your situation changes at all the flexibility in schedules that nursing can provide is another nice benefit. I would recommend that when you interview for jobs later, ask for an opportunity to chat with a few of the nurses currently working that job. It can really help you get a better idea of what the work environment is really like, for example how supportive bosses are of family needs/situations, the physical demands of the job, the intradepartmental/intraoffice interactions, etc.
I don't think you can ever be "to old" to further your career/education. My mother was an OR tech for most of her life, then she decided to go back to school and became and RN at the age of 55. Three years later, she couldn't be happier with her decision. I wish you the best.
~S.

K.,

I have been an RN for 10 years and a NP for 3 yrs. My mother is also an RN (40 years now). It is definately worth it. Nursing school is not easy but it will be worth it in the end. Depending on what type of practice you go into (hospital, MD office, outpt. surgery) your schedule will vary. Excellent benefits and I always liked working 3 12hr days and having more days off. However there are many 8 hr 5 day a week positions as well. My mom was a single mom with two girls (and one with severe asthma) when she went back for her BSN (had ADN). She did it and so can you! Just need to make sure you have some family and friend support.

We have a lot in common -- I too am essentially a single mom and I am thinking about going back for a nursing degree. I have NO support and I have a 3 yr old and a 10 month old. Feel free to email me if you want.

K.,

I want to encourage you to GO FOR IT! You've come this far and would likely regret not finishing and trying it. 46 is not old (I had my youngest child at 44)!!!

My two best friends are RNs....both first got their nursing degrees while being single Moms. The secret is a strong support network - find the best daycare possible and have backup (family and friends who will pick up your 3 yr old when you need them so your child does not miss out on activities etc. and so that you can remain focused on what you have to do).

My two friends are both in their forties now and put their years in already doing the tough work - hospitals, long hours, difficult patients and doctors etc., but I think I can speak for them when I tell you they would not have traded it for anything....they are now Case Managers (look into that), you work with insurance companies, doctors and patients by telephone and they are well-paid and not overworked.

As a former employment specialist I can tell you (and I'm sure you are aware) that RNs are in HUGE demand.

best of luck,

W.

Don't ever let your age stop you...but remember. The job is often thankless and grueling, the hours are horrible, the liability is mind-boggling, and as a 47 year old woman I got out of it due to stress, and constant back pain from being on my feet entire 8 hour shifts.
I now work from home. A lot more fulfilling and a lot less stressful. And my back doesn't hurt!