An Inside Look at NURSING

Dedication: I dedicate this to my older brother, John, who just passed his board exam to become a Registered Nurse!

Nursing. A lot of people I know seem to be headed that direction. I mean, why wouldn't you? Considering the recession, the longer lifespan, and more elderly needing health care assistance...how can you say no? It's stable, pays really well, and the very best part? You can make as much money as you want by working more than the usual 40 hours a week.

I know because I've watched my mom do it all the time. Growing up, I knew that we were short on money when I would rarely ever see her. Including now. On top of working full-time as a Clinical Nurse Manager, she also picked up a part-time job at a nursing home and another one for a a home health care agency. It's non-stop work for her, but she's doing it and she's making the money to make ends meet.

And it's not just the money, there are other reasons why people choose nursing. You get to take care of people who legitimately need your help. You get to make them feel better, to make them smile. And the best part? You get to give reliable advice to your friends and family! It's not just work...it's a way of living.

Still not convinced?: 6 Excuses That Keep People From Nursing

All I'm saying is, if you're totally against nursing for some reason you cannot put a finger on, give it a chance. It just might be what you've been subconsciously dreaming about all your life.

On a lighter note, I found a "Nursing Community for Nurses" that's worth checking out at allnurses.com. A unique, online community for nurses to share their inputs on everything nursing! Including this...

Top Ten Reasons to Become a Nurse:

10. Pays better than McDonald's (though the hours aren't as good.)
9. Fashionable shoes and sexy uniforms.
8. Needles: 'tis better to give than to receive.
7. Confidence in reassuring patients that all bleeding stops ... eventually.
6. Opportunity to expose yourself to rare, exotic, and exciting new diseases.
5. Interesting aromas.
4. Courteous and infallible doctors who always leave clear orders in perfectly clear handwriting.
3. Admit it, it's a lot easier than med school.
2. Celebration of holidays with all your friends ... at work.
1. Comfort in the knowledge that most of your patients survive no matter what you do to them.

Nurses photo courtesy
Male Nurse Action Figure photo courtesy