Why Become a Nurse?
Why become a nurse? Perhaps it would be better to ask, “Why not become a nurse?” There’s never been a better time to join this rewarding field of healthcare. Not only are nurses in high demand nationwide, they also work in what society views as one of the most trusted professions. Moreover, it’s a great career choice for those who seek job security, work flexibility, good pay, and endless opportunity.
High Demand
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates registered nurse employment to grow by 7% between the years 2019 and 2029, a faster rate than the average growth for all occupations. Those nurses with a BSN degree or higher will be in the highest demand as healthcare facilities across the country continue to reduce the number of associate degree nurses on staff. In fact, the Institute of Medicine (now referred to as the Health and Medicine Division of the National Academies of Science) published a report in 2010 on The Future of Nursing that called for increasing the number of BSN holders in the U.S. workforce from 50% to 80% by 2020. Although the goal has not yet been met, healthcare employers continue to move in that direction.
Diverse Opportunities
Nursing is one of the most diverse career choices in healthcare. As a licensed RN, you can take on a general practice role, concentrate on a specialty practice area, or pursue certification to qualify for jobs requiring a specific nursing skill set. In fact, the knowledge and skills gained through our ABSN program would prepare you to fill any number of entry-level nursing positions. Work environments for nurses include hospitals, physician’s offices, nursing homes, schools, military bases, urgent care centers, corporate clinics, and anywhere else hands-on patient care is needed.
Job Flexibility
Being a nurse means you have access to a part-time or full-time work schedule. If you decide to take a break from the profession, it’s easy to get back into the job market. You may even find yourself able to work different times of the day and in shifts that range from four to 12 hours.
Got What it Takes to Become a Nurse?
The best nurses are those who are equally competent and compassionate. They also embody specific qualities that make them good at their job. A good way to gauge whether you have what it takes to be a nurse is to consider your answers to these seven questions.
- Are you calm under pressure? Nurses must be able to maintain clear focus during stressful patient care situations.
- Are you emotionally strong? Nurses need to remain strong in the face of human suffering.
- Are you an empathic person? Nurses need to be able to look at every situation from the patient’s point of view.
- Are you physically fit? Nurses need to have the stamina to work long shifts and provide physical support to patients.
- Are you a collaborative person? Nurses must work in concert with other healthcare staff to ensure the best possible patient outcomes.
- Are you a good communicator? Nurses must be able to effectively explain medications and treatment options to patients and families.
- Are you detail-oriented? Nurses must pay attention to every last patient detail when administering medication and overseeing treatment.
If you answered “yes” to all seven questions, you just might have what it takes to become a nurse—and a great one at that.
Want More Information
Contact us to learn more about pursuing a career in nursing.