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How can I began my nursing journey? Im currently 15 about to enter 10th grade so what can i do to get a headstart in being a nurse, or just being in the medical field in general.
How can I began my nursing journey? Im currently 15 about to enter 10th grade so what can i do to get a headstart in being a nurse, or just being in the medical field in general.
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7 answers
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Martin’s Answer
Great question! Focus on the standard science and math courses, and if possible, delve into psychology too. Consider volunteering at a healthcare facility, be it a hospital, a veterans' home, or a nursing home. You might even want to consider joining a volunteer ambulance service, but make sure you've completed your first aid and CPR training first. Explore and discover what you love or what doesn't quite resonate with you. All experiences will be beneficial. You could even assist the athletic program's trainer at your school. Stay curious and open-minded, and remember to enjoy your high school years. College will be more challenging and guide you in choosing your path. However, keep in mind that you're aiming for a career, and it's essential to have other interests in life too.
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Rebecca’s Answer
Hey there! It's awesome to see you're thinking about joining this amazing profession! Just like Karissa mentioned, starting with AP Bio and Chemistry can set a solid foundation for your journey into nursing school. Shadowing nurses can be a wonderful opportunity to confirm if this is truly the career path you wish to follow. Volunteering in nursing homes can also provide valuable insights into the daily life of a nurse. So, go ahead and explore this fantastic field!
Thanks for up vote. Marty
Martin Schoen
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Lora’s Answer
Hi, Christen. It's exciting to hear of young people gravitating to the healthcare field. I am going to piggy-back on the previous answers here...
Yes, definitely take biology and chemistry. However, no mandates on taking the AP courses! Getting an understanding of the basics of science is a great first step. If your school offers up anatomy and/or physiology, that is also a great add to your curriculum.
Many hospitals will shy away from shadowing due to liability issues. Check local small clinics and offices, local college groups that focus on nursing and being a physician's assistant, etc. Some colleges and universities provide operating theaters - you can watch a surgery take place and get a feel for what you see on a regular basis. Best of luck!
Yes, definitely take biology and chemistry. However, no mandates on taking the AP courses! Getting an understanding of the basics of science is a great first step. If your school offers up anatomy and/or physiology, that is also a great add to your curriculum.
Many hospitals will shy away from shadowing due to liability issues. Check local small clinics and offices, local college groups that focus on nursing and being a physician's assistant, etc. Some colleges and universities provide operating theaters - you can watch a surgery take place and get a feel for what you see on a regular basis. Best of luck!
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Karissa’s Answer
Take AP Biology and AP Chemistry. Ask your pediatrician's nurse if you can shadow them for a few hours after school.
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Dolma’s Answer
It's great to see that you know what you want to pursue at such a young age. However, it's important to shadow professionals in the field and see yourself in the profession to ensure it's the right fit for you. Nursing is without a doubt a stressful and rewarding job, and it's good to be sure before you invest so much of your time and effort. You can start by joining a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program and start working in the field (when you are eligible to work) to gain first-hand experience.
If you decide that nursing isn't for you, many of the prerequisites you take will be transferable to other healthcare careers, such as radiologic technology, ultrasound technology, or other allied health professions. This flexibility can help you find the right path within the medical field, ensuring that you end up in a career that you are passionate about and find fulfilling.
Good luck!
If you decide that nursing isn't for you, many of the prerequisites you take will be transferable to other healthcare careers, such as radiologic technology, ultrasound technology, or other allied health professions. This flexibility can help you find the right path within the medical field, ensuring that you end up in a career that you are passionate about and find fulfilling.
Good luck!
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Anna’s Answer
Hey Christen,
It is great to see our youth being so eager to join an incredible profession. Getting into your courses early on that Karissa mentioned is great advice to follow. Trying to get into AP Bio and Chemistry is a great foundation. Seeing if you are able to volunteer as well as shadow will help you learn where you want to specialize as a nurse. I would also suggest early researching programs near you and look at courses you will be required to take to get into the program.
It is great to see our youth being so eager to join an incredible profession. Getting into your courses early on that Karissa mentioned is great advice to follow. Trying to get into AP Bio and Chemistry is a great foundation. Seeing if you are able to volunteer as well as shadow will help you learn where you want to specialize as a nurse. I would also suggest early researching programs near you and look at courses you will be required to take to get into the program.
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Hailey’s Answer
Concentrate on your math and sciences. If your high school has a health vocations class or club I would consider joining. Speak to your guidance counselor and see if they have recommendations or information for you. Are there any schools in your area you could tour when the time comes? Check out articles on the internet regarding your interests. Check your local library as well! Best of luck!