Ok, so maybe that was a little to intense of a title, but it is an important desision. I am wondering if I should go into pre-med school or go into nursing. I hope to have a family some day, but I want to help people. I guess that sounds a little cliche, but its true. I have heard that doctors don't deal with the emotional aspect of the health care. So, what do you all think I should do? What career would have me more involved with the patients and would let me have more time to raise a family? Thank you all for you help
Tracy
maroonbell2004@yahoo.com

Hi Tracy,

I think just about any nurse can comfirm for you that nurses spend vastly more one on one time with patients than physicians do, who tend to breeze in for about 5 minutes once per day on morning rounds.

Also, while I occasionally overhear nurses at work complaining about working a 12 hour shift or a 'double' (16 hours), residents commonly work 36 to 40 hour shifts, and average about 110 hours per week. So the answer to that question is pretty clear as well.

Hope this helps.

Howdy-

I would *highly* recommend 'shadowing' some doctors and nurses (women) in your area. If you are in college, your professional advising office should be able to hook you up with these opportunities to see what life is like as a doctor/nurse. I'm headed to medical school because I have a dual fascination with science and humanity. Many women in my family are nurses, and chose to be nurses to have more time with family. However, when you dont consider med school and residency/fellowship - nurses work as much or more than doctors. There are great opportunities in nursing now because of the nationwide shortage - but do whatever you feel you would be fulfilled doing! Good luck!!!
Lauren

My mother is a nurse. Growing up hearing her stories, I knew I didn't want to be a nurse. It depends on what you are looking for, as to what to choose. If you want to do more patient care (meds, cleaning, feeding, ect) choose nursing. If you want to find out what is physically wrong with someone and hopefully "fix it", be a doctor. I've heard too many horror stories of dodging loaded bed pans to consider nursing!
Good luck,
Tess