Whew. I don't know if it is a Neptune transit that's got me confused or what, but I'd really like to hear from some nurses out there about this question, if you have the time and/or inclination:

I am applying to nursing school. As you know it is a lot of work and money. Which is fine, but is it worth it? Specifically, do the facilities chronically understaff to save money, making nursing a needlessly hellish experience? Is there any professional respect at all for nurses, in your opinion?

I can learn to deal with the gross factor, and I enjoy working hard. But working hard is different than being used, know what I mean?

I really admire nurses (Cancer sun), and I'd love to hear it straight from you all. Many thanks!

Nursing is the most respected profession on the planet.  A survey/poll was taken not to long ago and it showed that nurses are the most trusted profession also.  People trust nurses more than school teaches, cops, doctors, priests et al.  Unfortunately nurses and school teachers are still considered by many to be "pink collar" jobs.  Many feel nurses are so trusted because they have no real power to harm,  school teachers, cops, doctors, judges, can hurt us.  We don't trust things that can hurt us.   Nursing is an unusual mix of art and science, where the two are beautifuly blended to offer comfort, care and love.    It demands that you be the best that you can be.

Me nurse for 30 years,  last 12 at hospice. Pisces rising with jupiter in virgo.  Humble service to others.

25-year RN here.  I have done just about everything, from Labor & Delivery to Hospice and everything in-between.  If I were advising a daughter or loved one on whether or not to go into nursing, I would have to say "consider it carefully".  On the one hand, nursing has been certain job security in a rural area that has a high jobless rate. The nursing shortage in this country is reaching critical levels.  There is a lot of satisfaction in helping those who cannot help themselves.  The hours are long, the pay isn't great.....plan on working nights, weekends and holidays......Staffing issues and mandatory overtime are the norm (it's more about lack of qualified help than deliberate understaffing, in most cases).  I have to say, however, that I can't imagine doing anything else!  I have been there to welcome new life into this world, and I have been there to aid the dying in making the transition from this life to the next as dignified and comfortable as possible.  The rewards are not in pay or benefits, but in the knowledge that you have made a difference.  When you see the gratitude and trust in your patients' eyes and you know you have eased their suffering, if only in some small way, it is way worth it.  I am proud to say I am a nurse.  Virgo sun, Cancer moon, Pisces rising.

Thank you, daisy and Demelza. You should both be very proud. I would like to do hospice, but of course I don't know anything yet. Who knows.

I wanted to get some opinions here, as opposed to a nursing forum (which also helps) because it's not just the opinion, it's the temperament of the person giving the opinion. Sometimes, those with the strongest opinions are also the biggest whiners (not always, but sometimes). I just wanted to make sure I'm hearing all of the voices.

From what I've observed and heard so far, I think the people who thrive in nursing are the ones that see life philosophically.

Demelza said what I have failed to say.  One of my greatest moments in my life was the day a very young woman, in this country illegaly and 3,000 miles from home and mama said to me 3 days before she died, "I don't want you to let go of my hand until God calls for it.  It is then I want you to be one to hand it over to him." 

One of the best and hardest days of my life.  Anything else is just a job.

It was a quiet ride home that night.   Did you notice we both have pisces rising and a strong virgo influence.

Interesting, daisy. Thank you for your service as well.

Well, before I come across as all misty-eyed and Florence Nightingale, let me say one more thing:  nursing is not for the faint-of-heart!  Courage as well as compassion are essential.  Every day is a battle..........

I Am Strong

I Am Invincible

i am tired

I use to work in hospitals but mainly as clerical and technical positions. I wanted to go to nursing school when I was young and ambitious but could not pass algrebra. I'm very right brained.

Nursing is a calling. It's a great defense against unemployment. You are wanted, you are in demand. They are beginning to jump thru hoops to retain and employ nurses. You can always work in a doctors office or clinic setting if you want day hours. There are many facets of employment to nursing. You can always rise up to Nurse Practitioner and have the perks and respect of doctors. Women have a compassion and intuitive factor that men have not yet developed. I believe in the future that nursing will rise up out of the pink collar division and will get the respect and approval they deserve.   

I say go for it. You will have the emotional satisfaction and stability of helping people and being a light in this world - and get paid for it too boot. This is from a quad Virgo (sun/moon/mar/venus) "No greater joy in this world then helping others in their time of need."  Virgo

LOL Demelza. You guys are awesome.