4 answers
Jordyn
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
1
Question
Asked
731 views
If math and sciences are not always your strong suit, is it still possible to go into the medical field?
To be more specific, after nursing, I would like to go farther and become a neonatal nurse practitioner. Would this career be possible not being great at math and some sciences? Or would there be a better option for me that you would recommend?
Login to comment
4 answers
Flor Ordoñes
Marketing
1
Answer
San Fernando, California
Updated
Flor’s Answer
In short, yes!
Many medical professionals go into the medical field with math & science not being their strong suit. However, with enough determination, accountbility to view where you need and to ask for help, it is possible. Colleges have many resources available to ensure you earn a great grade. Finding ways to collelate your diffucult subjects to everyday life is also a great best practive that I have learned as well.
Many medical professionals go into the medical field with math & science not being their strong suit. However, with enough determination, accountbility to view where you need and to ask for help, it is possible. Colleges have many resources available to ensure you earn a great grade. Finding ways to collelate your diffucult subjects to everyday life is also a great best practive that I have learned as well.
Isabel Alencar
Nurse Practitioner/ Nurse Executive
2
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Nursing as a whole is a lot more about basic math and science, (think algebra, biology, anatomy, physiology) than the specifics you take as prerequisites. (Physics, organic chemistry, calculus) The science and math classes are applicable to areas of medicine as a whole, and depending what area of healthcare you go into you will use the more specific classes, but taking these required courses gives you big picture understanding of the things going on with your patients. Day-to-day you will need basic math and science knowledge to accomplish your tasks. When ordering medication, especially for pediatrics and neonates, you will calculate the dosage per kg of body weight in many instances, and that is the type of math you will use daily in your role. Don't let the fear of these classes deter your you from your dream. There's so much more that goes into being a NP than just those classes and you can be great even if those classes are not your strong suite.
If you really struggle, go to office hours or tutoring to help you.
Isabel recommends the following next steps:
Briana Pelle, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech language pathology
149
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Briana’s Answer
Hi Jordyn,
There are many people who aren't fans of math and science who work in medical fields. A lot of it is the difference between theoretical/academic math and science and how these subjects can be functionally applied in the field, which is often much easier for people to learn. If you are interested in nursingz try taking a health science class to see how these ideas are applied.
What many people struggle with is that nursing and medical schools have a lot of STEM prerequisites that are more theoretical. You have to get through these courses before you get to how they are applied for medicine. That's stuff like statistics, calculus, microbiology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, and anatomy.
It is up to you of you want to complete these courses and pursue nursing or find another track into the medical field. Learn how you learn (are you a visual learner, learn by doing?, do you need to write things down?, do you need 1-on-1 help or do you need a group setting?, etc), and commit to studying these courses in a way that is most effective for you personally. And remember that you don't need straight As. You need to pass, you need to be confident in your knowledge, and you need to know where and how to get help of you are uncertain. This doesn't always mean As across the board.
Here are a few other health care jobs that don't require as many STEM courses in your education and training: medical billing and coding, medical scribe, medical social worker, patient advocate, counselor or therapist, family planning counselor, genetic counselor, health care administration, medical technologist.
There are many people who aren't fans of math and science who work in medical fields. A lot of it is the difference between theoretical/academic math and science and how these subjects can be functionally applied in the field, which is often much easier for people to learn. If you are interested in nursingz try taking a health science class to see how these ideas are applied.
What many people struggle with is that nursing and medical schools have a lot of STEM prerequisites that are more theoretical. You have to get through these courses before you get to how they are applied for medicine. That's stuff like statistics, calculus, microbiology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, and anatomy.
It is up to you of you want to complete these courses and pursue nursing or find another track into the medical field. Learn how you learn (are you a visual learner, learn by doing?, do you need to write things down?, do you need 1-on-1 help or do you need a group setting?, etc), and commit to studying these courses in a way that is most effective for you personally. And remember that you don't need straight As. You need to pass, you need to be confident in your knowledge, and you need to know where and how to get help of you are uncertain. This doesn't always mean As across the board.
Here are a few other health care jobs that don't require as many STEM courses in your education and training: medical billing and coding, medical scribe, medical social worker, patient advocate, counselor or therapist, family planning counselor, genetic counselor, health care administration, medical technologist.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6185
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jordyn!
Is it Possible to Enter the Medical Field with Limited Math and Science Skills?
Entering the medical field, particularly as a neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP), is indeed possible even if math and sciences are not your strongest subjects. However, it is essential to understand the requirements and expectations of this career path.
1. Understanding the Role of a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
A neonatal nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in caring for newborns, particularly those who are ill or premature. NNPs perform assessments, diagnose conditions, manage treatment plans, and provide critical care to infants. This role requires a solid understanding of both nursing principles and advanced medical knowledge.
2. Educational Requirements
To become an NNP, you typically need to follow these educational steps:
Obtain a Nursing Degree: Start by earning either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN is often preferred as it provides more comprehensive training.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse (RN).
Gain Clinical Experience: Most NNP programs require candidates to have experience working as an RN in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or similar settings. This experience is crucial for developing clinical skills and understanding the complexities of neonatal care.
Pursue Graduate Education: Enroll in a Master’s or Doctoral program specifically designed for neonatal nurse practitioners. These programs will cover advanced topics in pediatric health, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and more.
3. Importance of Math and Science Skills
While strong math and science skills can be beneficial in nursing and advanced practice roles like that of an NNP, they are not insurmountable barriers:
Math Skills: Basic math skills are necessary for medication calculations, understanding dosages, and interpreting lab results. Many nursing programs offer support courses or tutoring to help students improve their math skills.
Science Knowledge: A foundational understanding of biology, chemistry, and human anatomy is essential. However, many nursing programs incorporate these subjects into their curricula with opportunities for hands-on learning that can enhance comprehension.
4. Support Systems Available
If you find yourself struggling with math or science:
Tutoring Services: Many educational institutions offer tutoring services specifically aimed at helping students succeed in challenging subjects.
Study Groups: Joining study groups can provide peer support where you can learn collaboratively with others who may have strengths in areas where you feel less confident.
Online Resources: There are numerous online platforms that offer courses and resources tailored to nursing students needing extra help with math or science concepts.
5. Alternative Career Paths
If after careful consideration you still feel that becoming an NNP may not be suitable due to your concerns about math and science:
Consider Other Nursing Specialties: There are various specialties within nursing that may align better with your strengths. For example, roles such as school nurses or community health nurses may focus less on acute medical interventions.
Explore Non-Nursing Roles in Healthcare: Positions such as healthcare administration or patient advocacy may allow you to work within the medical field without requiring extensive math or science knowledge.
In conclusion, while challenges exist regarding math and science proficiency when pursuing a career as a neonatal nurse practitioner, there are ample resources available to assist you along the way. With dedication and support, it is entirely feasible to achieve your goal of entering this rewarding field.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)
This organization provides comprehensive information on various nurse practitioner roles including educational pathways and certification requirements.
2. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
The NCSBN offers resources related to licensure examinations such as NCLEX-RN which are crucial for aspiring nurses.
3. National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN)
This association focuses on advancing neonatal nursing through education and advocacy while providing resources specific to neonatal nurse practitioners’ roles and responsibilities.
GOD BLESS!
JC.
Is it Possible to Enter the Medical Field with Limited Math and Science Skills?
Entering the medical field, particularly as a neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP), is indeed possible even if math and sciences are not your strongest subjects. However, it is essential to understand the requirements and expectations of this career path.
1. Understanding the Role of a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
A neonatal nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in caring for newborns, particularly those who are ill or premature. NNPs perform assessments, diagnose conditions, manage treatment plans, and provide critical care to infants. This role requires a solid understanding of both nursing principles and advanced medical knowledge.
2. Educational Requirements
To become an NNP, you typically need to follow these educational steps:
Obtain a Nursing Degree: Start by earning either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN is often preferred as it provides more comprehensive training.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse (RN).
Gain Clinical Experience: Most NNP programs require candidates to have experience working as an RN in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or similar settings. This experience is crucial for developing clinical skills and understanding the complexities of neonatal care.
Pursue Graduate Education: Enroll in a Master’s or Doctoral program specifically designed for neonatal nurse practitioners. These programs will cover advanced topics in pediatric health, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and more.
3. Importance of Math and Science Skills
While strong math and science skills can be beneficial in nursing and advanced practice roles like that of an NNP, they are not insurmountable barriers:
Math Skills: Basic math skills are necessary for medication calculations, understanding dosages, and interpreting lab results. Many nursing programs offer support courses or tutoring to help students improve their math skills.
Science Knowledge: A foundational understanding of biology, chemistry, and human anatomy is essential. However, many nursing programs incorporate these subjects into their curricula with opportunities for hands-on learning that can enhance comprehension.
4. Support Systems Available
If you find yourself struggling with math or science:
Tutoring Services: Many educational institutions offer tutoring services specifically aimed at helping students succeed in challenging subjects.
Study Groups: Joining study groups can provide peer support where you can learn collaboratively with others who may have strengths in areas where you feel less confident.
Online Resources: There are numerous online platforms that offer courses and resources tailored to nursing students needing extra help with math or science concepts.
5. Alternative Career Paths
If after careful consideration you still feel that becoming an NNP may not be suitable due to your concerns about math and science:
Consider Other Nursing Specialties: There are various specialties within nursing that may align better with your strengths. For example, roles such as school nurses or community health nurses may focus less on acute medical interventions.
Explore Non-Nursing Roles in Healthcare: Positions such as healthcare administration or patient advocacy may allow you to work within the medical field without requiring extensive math or science knowledge.
In conclusion, while challenges exist regarding math and science proficiency when pursuing a career as a neonatal nurse practitioner, there are ample resources available to assist you along the way. With dedication and support, it is entirely feasible to achieve your goal of entering this rewarding field.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)
This organization provides comprehensive information on various nurse practitioner roles including educational pathways and certification requirements.
2. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
The NCSBN offers resources related to licensure examinations such as NCLEX-RN which are crucial for aspiring nurses.
3. National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN)
This association focuses on advancing neonatal nursing through education and advocacy while providing resources specific to neonatal nurse practitioners’ roles and responsibilities.
GOD BLESS!
JC.