Nursing job question?

Hi all,
I have been nursing in care homes (as trained nurse) for almost 18 years now but fancy a change in direction. I am thinking of the possibility of returning to a hospital/ward but i feel a bit nervous. Is this normal? Think I've spent too long in just one job and maybe i should have ventured away a while ago. Am only 39...is it too late to change direction do you think?

Never feel that it is too late. I worked as a nursing assistant until my youngest was in school, went to school and received my LPN, and a two years later received my RN at the age of 41. I now am doing what I enjoy, I teach nursing assistant classes, and own my own adult family home. You have perhaps another 20-25 years that you can work. Look at all you have accomplished in that time already. GO FOR IT. Good Luck !

no its not too late. your bound to feel nervous. just go for it. you wont be happy if you dont!!! x

I don't think so. I would make sure your retirement has matured first. You don't want to leave a year before you retire. :P

Hospitals need nurses bad. They might be reluctant trying to train a seasoned nurse with old habits. Still the shortage is so bad I bet they would over look such things. The medical floors I have seen are much like a nursing home anyway.

I bet you would enjoy postpartum, nursery, or an OB floor.

Anyway Good Luck.

It's your life enjoy it.

I think you are right to be nervous because it is a big change and the demands on you will be very different from the nursing home. I think you should take the challenge and it is never too late. Check with the hospital in your area or the RCN and find out whether you need to do any training or updating before you apply. My wife was a nurse for many years and then re trained as a midwife at 37 and she never regretted it although there were plenty of hurdles to jump.

I think you have made a good decision.In hospital you will gain lots of new skills,you will find it more interesting if you are somebody who wants to learn.Its never too late go for it .you will be fine