Nursing is one of the most in-demand jobs of the century. It is also the choice of profession if you are caring and want to help others. Although, it is not for the fainthearted and is often seen as a lesser form of healthcare. Even though only the smartest and the toughest can call it their job and their passion.
Nursing is a job that is not only in demand. It is essential to keep everyone healthy. In recent years, shortages in nursing staff have been highlighted due to COVID 19. Making it a better time than ever to consider it as a career choice. There are, like many careers, pros and cons. In this article, the pros of choosing a career in nursing are explored.
1. Salary, security, and in-work benefits
Nursing has always been a job in high demand, and this trend is set to continue. In the US, it is predicted that there will be a 10% growth rate in nursing between 2022 and 2030. Not to mention that the majority of registered nurses who are retiring will hit a peak in this period too.
Due to this, nurses receive in-work benefits and a competitive salary. Even when it comes to starting, training nurses receive tuition reimbursement. So,looking into online accelerated BSN programs is something that you should do. This will allow you to compare the programs offered by universities, and it will also enable you to assess how the skills learned can transfer.
Remember, it isn’t general nurses that are in short supply. This short staffing also extends to geriatric, cancer, and even mental health nurses. If you have children, childcare payments may be offered. This will vary on where you choose to work, but it is almost unanimous among universities. As well as wellness programs and paid vacation.
2. Flexibility
Nursing isn’t the 9-5 job that many people have.It offers night work, 12-hour shifts, long shifts, or short shifts. Thus, allowing you to match it to your schedule and family commitments, and a schedule you need for one week can be changed for the next one.
Once again, this may vary depending on where you choose to work. For instance, if you are a nurse at a school, you will get two months off during the summer. An ER nurse won’t. Community health nurses also tend to work 9-5. A mental health nurse may work three 12-hour shifts in a row and have four days off.
If you work in a small hospital, you may be able to choose your own schedule yourself without having to go through the clinical lead. This will allow you more independence and help with your well-being.
3. Advancing
Nursing is a job that offers multiple ways to advance.
When you get a nursing degree and some experience, you can move into almost any field. There are many managerial nursing positions, for instance. Or you may want to specialize. Undertaking a course in nursing for learning disabilities? Or even oncology? You could even become a nurse practitioner. Which is, in essence, a community doctor role.
If you want to stay working in your hospital, you can become a head nurse of a ward. Which is a very respectable and highly paid position.
4. Challenging
Many people want something more from their job. Working behind a computer 9-5 every day can become monotonous.
As a nurse, you are often in a position where you are thinking on your feet with people in real situations. Some days may be quiet. Others may be hectic, and of course, some days will be harder than others.
Globally, registered nurses can all agree on 1 thing. This job is challenging. It allows you to develop time management skills. People skills. While also using your clinical skills in a real-world setting. Registered nurses also agree that when you begin your placement, you will hit the ground running. Most of what you learn in your placement won’t be taught. You will need to develop new skills quickly and be adaptable. Once you have the hang of it, it will become second nature.
5. Rewarding
Nursing is an incredibly rewarding career.
Personal satisfaction comes with this professional, caring role. As a nurse, you will impact people’s lives every day. Not just your patients. But their families as well. As well as other healthcare professionals.
This doesn’t only extend to treating physical illness. In general, nurses are very compassionate. They realize that their patients are ill. So, they do their best to stop the discomfort. While also ensuring that their patients are listened to. It may not seem like much, but this can be very reassuring to someone who is in hospital.
Once again, some areas of nursing can be harder than others. For instance, if you are a hospice nurse, you will see death every day. If you are a nurse working on a midwifery ward or a NICU unit, this is not as likely. Overall, almost all nurses agree that this job gives them personal satisfaction. Which should never be overlooked in any career.
6. Trusted career
Being a nurse enhances your status in the eyes of others.
If you are a nurse, you are seen as more honest. Trustworthy. While also being caring and compassionate. More than this, you are also a respected medical professional. To be a successful nurse, all of these things are true and required. You will also be regarded as someone with high ethics.In annual Gallup polls for nearly 20 years, nurses have been described as respectable. Which will certainly boost your self-esteem.
Remember, nursing is not a job for the fainthearted. You will need to be at your best every day and provide care to the highest level. There is also ongoing training and other courses that you need to attend. As well as the initial degree and placements.
This is a career that is only suited for the brightest and the most caring people in society. If that sounds like you, start looking for your nearest nursing course.
