ALT-5 Why become a Nurse
If you are challenged by the thought of committing to something you can throw your heart and soul into, Nursing may be the career for you. However, if your personality needs constant stroking and rewards, it is not. If you are not willing to share in working on weekends or holidays, you will find yourself disappointed as a nurse in a hospital setting. However, you may do well in other areas of healthcare. In most cases, it is not a career without sacrifice.
In some cases what has lead you down this road to selecting nursing as a career, is the personal satisfaction you have received when caring for another.
The education for nursing is often clear cut, and challenging in many areas. You can expect a heavy amount of study in the science areas. These are the necessary requirements, as well as the clinical time required at patient's bedside. This is to provide you with a well rounded hospital experience. You will need this background to incorporate into any area of nursing.
Todays nurse is not only the one who administers, but helps direct appropriate patient care. A Registered Nurse in the clinical hospital setting will write care plans within parameters and according to standards and guidelines. They are designed to achieve certain outcomes in the treatment and management of an illness.
A nurse who is at the bedside must be educated in the use of the most advanced technology, this includes learning about equipment that is used to monitor and treat patients in todays hospital setting.
The role of a nurse is primarily the patients advocate. A nurse must be confident enough to stand on her own on her patients behalf. As well , to be able to make independent decisions within her scope of practice.
Has this scared you away from nursing? It should not, in most healthcare areas there is a collegial system that supports and contributes to the well being of both the patients and the caregivers. It is an especially strong circle of professionals, that unifies and makes you stronger, it helps you grow through shared expertise and it provides unbelievable personal support. The only requirement is that you maintain high ethical standards in your practice and take the responsibility for patients in your care.
The rewards for your commitment are many and most of them are personal. It is unbelievably rewarding to be part of a team and to save a life, or deliver a newborn. This includes holding the hand of a dying patient. Especially for those who are alone and without a family. Teaching and learning opportunities in the healthcare area are many and boredom is never a problem.
Heathcare has been in constant turmoil for a long time, and probably always will be. Advances in technology and research have added quality to our lives. But it has also taken a toll on the professionals in this area. Many have left for more money and more time. But those that have stayed will tell you, the need for a nurse will never change.
The profession of nursing, will always be asking the most from you. And will in most areas pay you less than you are worth. Yet, many of us will tell you it is one of the most fulfilling ways to spend a life.
