Possibly seeking Nursing career... help?

[bedwards90]

Hi, I am Brittney and am very interested in pursuing a career in nursing... It's taken me 4 years to figure out, but all of the things I hear about it makes me think this could be the career for me. I live in South Dakota... single mother. I'm wondering what everyone would recommend starting off? What is the difference between an RN and a BSN? How long did school take start to finish? Thanks for the input=)

[amygarside]

Hello Brittney, it is nice that you are thinking of being a nurse. Both RN and BSN have their advantages and disadvantages, however, you can start taking RN courses first. It is a four year course. Good luck!

[Kathbabynurse]

Hi Brittney,
Nursing is a great career because you can work less days/week. I must tell you that it is exhausting profession! You must have good stamina and patience! RN - Associates is fine, but many hospitals these days want nurses who have BSN. If I were you check out the area hospitals you are thinking of working and see what they require. Best of luck to you, and hang in there!

[bb249038]

Hi Brittney, The difference between an Rn and Bsn. Bsn has a 4 year degree from an accredited school of nursing. An Rn may have attended a 2 year community college and have associate degree or nursing hospital program and have a nursing diploma. All have an Rn license just different levels of education. Read about Nursing Magnet Status for hospitals for them to obtain this status eventually their nurses must have a BSN (4 year nursing degree). Good Luck!

[NurseEducator]

Hi Brittney,
Nursing is a great career. I would suggest you try to do something in healthcare first to see if this is for you. You could do a unit secretary, CNA, Monitor Tech, EKG tech, Pharmacy tech etc type certification course (check out the local community college) and see if this is a good career fit. I often see people in nursing who really don't like patient care and could have took a different path if they had known. Also, these careers often get you into jobs that have tuition reimbursement and can help you pay for the programs. Maybe look at job postings in your area and see what they are requiring most are probably BSNs but, you can do the RN first so, you have income and then start on BSN as well. Good luck, whichever path you choose.

[jmsrn159]

Hi Brittney, My name is Joan. I have been retired for about 5 years and coming back for part time work. The learning modules are online and they will qualify you to upgrade. Suggestion...get the RN lic and get a job. Meanwhile, in your spare time, you can study for the BSN license. ...With a baby I am sure your a busy person so hold tight and don't sweat the small stuff. Any nurse that doesn't want to help you is going to harm you if you don't ignore her. Furthermore, you decided on nursing for many reasons so consentrate on that and just ignore the junk.