Taking the Long Road to Become a Nurse
 Mel Bowen |
After success as a teacher, manager and business consultant, Mel Bowen decided to make one last career switch. At 47, she entered the Research College of Nursing accelerated option program — a one-year bachelor of science in nursing program designed for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline. She received assistance with her tuition in return for a contract to work for an HCA hospital for two years upon graduation.
Mel started working in cardiopulmonary telemetry at Research Medical Center. Her patients often have respiratory problems, as well as heart, digestive and other medical problems. After eight months, she was assigned to palliative care and works with patients who frequently have multiple medical problems and may have a terminal diagnosis. Mel likes the emphasis on total care and being part of a team that includes health care workers, a chaplain and social worker. She is able to draw on her past job skills, which is important to Mel.
Enjoying the hard work, Mel appreciates the many opportunities that nursing offers her — a good salary, a stable career outlook, no travel requirements and plentiful job opportunities in
Kansas City.
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