3 answers
3 answers
Updated
KatieAnna’s Answer
It is great that you are already applying for your BSN. I do agree with Iris, in gaining experience as a PCT or CNA. One thing I would suggest, is not just doing this in the area that you are interested in, but trying the float pool ( if you are going into hospital nursing) so you get a wide array of experiences from Med-Surg, ICU, Ortho, Oncology, Emergency, etc.
Thank you so much! I will keep that in mind.
Veronica
Updated
Cathy’s Answer
Good for you for choosing nursing as a career! I attended nursing school in the 1980's and a lot has changed since then. I guess I would tell 'my old self' to know that the learning will never stop, changes will be part of every day life, and to be open to all areas of nursing. In school, I did learn the most when I was doing my clinical, I tried to 'connect' the dots so that I was always seeing 'the bigger picture.' The reality is that I will never fully see the 'big picture' as there is always more to consider and things change so rapidly. Never hesitate to ask questions, think 'why are they doing this or why is this ordered?' Also anticipate-I think this person should be on an IV antibiotic because......This will help you learn.
Best of luck to you!
Best of luck to you!
Thank you so much for your advice!
Veronica
Updated
Iris’s Answer
I wish I had thought to consider having a part-time or per diem job as a PCT (patient care technician) or CNA (certified nurse assistant) while in nursing school, esp. on the floor that I was interested in. It gives you a lot of hands-on experience and you can see what the nurses do. In addition to hands-on experience, it could also help you when applying to nursing jobs after graduation. Some floors will even hire you on to the floor after you become a nurse, making for a smooth transition from one position to another.
Thank you so much!
Veronica