Career change help!

[cooper_patterson]

Hi all!

I am currently visiting the idea of changing careers! I am currently investing most of my time researching health related professions as I had always thought that would be the best suited route for me. The two main options I was considering in the Nursing field are Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Anesthetist. I am now looking into what all is necessary to get there. I have read the prereq.s but am having some questions with what all is necessary to become an RN.

Basically my main question is in regards to me having BS in Biology from Texas A&M and was wondering if that would help in my quest or do I have to still get a nursing degree regardless. I have read about the 2nd degree BSN option and the Accelerated option, which help with some of the general courses, but is there a third option for someone who has already taken the sciences too?


Thanks,

[texcollex]

First let me say... "Gig em!"

Your degree will Definitely help in gaining a nursing degree. As you have mentioned, some schools have accelerated programs for just such situations. To get into nursing school, however, there will still be prerequisites that you may have to take. Anatomy and Physiology (two semesters), for example.

Whatever you have to take, I have to say that I think it will be worth if for you. Demand and pay have been high for both positions. The working conditions are usually pretty good. Nursing is a very fulfilling field, and you have a lot of options in career advancement.

Most advanced practice routes require that you will have a year or so of experience after you get your RN. Most CRNA schools like critical care experience (ICU is good). From BSN to MSN is a matter of 36-40 hours of post grad work, plus quite a few hours of clinical time. This will qualify you to sit for the Nurse Practitioner boards. If you decide on the Nurse Anesthetist route, you will have to commit to a couple of years heavy class load, plus clinical hours.

Most nurses decide not to work while in the CRNA program. In the Nurse Prac program, much of which can be done via Internet, many keep their jobs at least part-time. I plan to pursue the NP route for that reason, and also that I like the closer working relationship with the patient that it provides.

Best of luck in your pursuit.
Tex