Is a Nursing Degree Too Good to Be True?

1. Getting accepted into a nursing degree program is a challenge

Nursing programs are in demand, and the limited space goes to the best and brightest. It's important not only to complete all the prerequisites before you apply, but you need to do well in those classes. Some schools may be more competitive than others, so this may not be a hard and fast rule, but some students find that having B's doesn't cut it. You really need A's. So if you're serious about nursing school, there's no time for slacking.

If you're having trouble getting into a registered nurse (RN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, there is a fairly reasonable remedy: You can earn your licensed practical nurse (LPN) degree instead, and continue your education from there in an LPN to BSN program. A certified nurse assistant (CNA) certificate can also be a good way to build your knowledge and get some experience in the field. You can complete your CNA training in about six to 12 weeks.

2. Nursing careers aren't for the faint of heart

Nursing is a very physically demanding job. You'll spend a lot of time on your feet and helping patients. The hours can also be a challenge. Depending on where you work, you might be on call, and your hours may include nights, weekends and holidays. And it's not just the physical demands of the job, but also the emotional demands.

Looking after the well-being of your patients requires a great deal of compassion, which can take a toll over time. Not all patients have positive outcomes, and the health care environment can be stressful. Experts recommend that nurses learn to take care of themselves by eating properly, practicing relaxation techniques and taking quick breaks to deal with emotional moments when necessary.

3. Entry-level nurses have to pay their dues

While today's nurses command more respect than clichés may lead you to believe, entry-level nurses definitely get the grunt work. CNAs and LPNs may especially bear the brunt of the most unpleasant tasks from assisting/lifting patients to emptying bed pans or changing soiled linens.

The good news is that nursing offers great opportunities for promotion. While you may need to go back to school for a more advanced degree or specialized training in order to take advantage of these opportunities, they're more plentiful than ever. As hospitals and other health care providers employ nurses to handle many of the tasks that doctors used to do, nurses will experience overall job growth as well as greater opportunities to move up the food chain.