Choosing Between Nursing and Medicine: A Personal Journey

Deciding between pursuing a career in nursing or medicine is a challenging yet exciting journey. I, myself, went through a similar phase in high school, much like you, and have some insights to share with you.

Exploring Nursing: Start with a CNA Certification

I would suggest you consider taking a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course and committing to working as a CNA for 3–6 months. This hands-on experience will give you a clear idea of whether you truly enjoy caring for the needs of another human being. A CNA role can be demanding, but it offers invaluable insight into the healthcare field.

Be Prepared for the Rigors of the CNA Role

An observation position is very different from being in a hands-on situation. As a CNA, you’ll get firsthand experience in patient care, which will help you decide if this is the path you want to pursue. Additionally, being a CNA is a demanding role, and it involves a great deal of physical and emotional labor. However, it is an essential step to make an informed decision.

A Personal Insight From a 40-Year Nursing Career

I have been a nurse for 40 years. My journey began in high school when I took a course called 'Introduction to Healthcare Opportunities.' This course sparked my interest in nursing, and from there, I held every position, from Candy Striper to BSN Associate Director of Nursing. Nothing beats the feeling of knowing that you have provided much more than just a paycheck. Nursing has been more than a profession; it's a way of life for me.

Start Your Journey with Volunteer Work

If you are still unsure, a great way to explore nursing further is to volunteer at a local hospital. This hands-on experience will provide you with a firsthand look at the real life of nursing. You can also research the course curriculum, internships, and the board exams online. However, nothing beats the experience of breathing the same air and seeing it up close in a healthcare setting.

The Realities of Nursing

Being a nurse is not just a job; it's a way of life. It requires a deep passion for healthcare and the ability to handle the challenges that come with it. Nursing isn't glamorous like it is portrayed in movies. It's a physically and emotionally demanding role. Sickness, injuries, and death are not easy to deal with, as you may experience them intensely for the first time in your career. Witnessing a patient's death or struggling to advocate for a patient can be emotionally taxing.

Why Nursing is Rewarding

Despite the challenges, nursing can be highly rewarding. The feeling of making a difference, saving a life, or providing much-needed support and advocacy for a patient is incomparable. When you see a patient who was on the brink of death walk out of your unit, it is an incredible feeling. Nursing is not just about the job; it's about who you are and what you stand for.

To make an informed decision, you need to think long and hard about your passion and commitment to nursing. Once you become a nurse, the journey is lifelong. Nursing is a way of life that defines you. If you are willing to embrace the challenges, the rewards are immense. So, take the plunge and decide whether nursing is the right path for you.