Should I forget about becoming a nurse if I'm afraid of blood/needles?

Question

I have always been interested in becoming a nurse (RN). I have completed half of the RN program and still have to finish my clincal (another year and 1/2). My problem is that feel faint and sometimes pass out when I see someone or myself getting their blood drawn. It's called vasovagal syncope and a lot of people have it. I really want to become a nurse but how can I if I have this problem???

Answer 1

You are identifying a bit to closely with the patient and imagining yourself getting the needle. With time, you will come to realize that drawing blood is a good thing, and believe it or not will feel sheer joy when you hit a "hard stick" (small difficult vein) and get the speciman others could not. You are normal. Most of us had a bit of an aversion to sticking needles into others, but you get to love it. Concentrate on the good you are doing for the patient, master the techniques with practice, and sail on.

Answer 2

If you go to nursing school you will probably get over that phobia. If you really want to be a nurse you should go for it. After doing the procedures on dummies (or whatever they use for practice) you will get over it. Good luck.

Answer 3

You can get used to the sight of blood and needles. It's easier when you don't know the people who are bleeding.

I used to pass out, or have to lean against the wall, then I convinced myself that the sharp end of the needle was pointing AWAY from me, so it was OK. I still hate shots and blood tests, but I no longer pass out.

Answer 4

Yes, as a nurse of any type you will be exposed to blood, body fluids, needles, open wounds, and all sorts of emergencies. Why don't youo find something else in the health field that you might be interested in. There are alot of options and they'll take the same time as becoming an RN and pay you the same amount.. You can become an Ultrasound tech, (tell people what s*x their baby will be) or something in radiology maybe... anything in the health field will be very rewarding and you'll be doing something great for someone else. Good luck!