What types of people become nurses? Think of how you react when you come across someone in need. If you see someone fall on the street, do you rush over to see if the person is alright? Can you sense when a friend is upset, and want to know why? This type of concern for others, or empathy, is an admirable trait valued by many. Knowing you’re this type of person can give you some insight as to what kind of career choice might be best for you.
If you like helping others, maybe you should consider a career in nursing. People who are injured or sick need comfort from caring, compassionate individuals who have the personality traits and calm demeanor that make them feel at ease.
In a study published in the Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, students were asked questions about their motivation for studying nursing. The results of the survey found that overwhelmingly, the students perceived themselves as altruistic, caring individuals whose primary motivation was to help others in need.
Nurses are More than Just “Angels in White”
Aside from their compassion and a desire to help others, students in the study highlighted the importance of intelligence as well as caring. Nursing students today are proud to consider themselves competent and intelligent caregivers.
What are some of these traits that define competence? Communication skills are very important. Competent nurses must listen and speak effectively in order to quickly determine a patient’s symptoms and evaluate how serious the condition might be.
Proper attention to detail is essential too, as consequences from errors can be significant. You must be able to keep accurate records and remain alert, sometimes after long hours. In addition, you should have the physical stamina to remain on your feet for long periods of time. A career in the medical profession is hard work, but the knowledge that you are helping others is tremendously rewarding.
Employment in a Range of Settings
As a charge nurse, floor nurse, or even in a management position in a long-term care facility, you’ll perform a variety of functions in numerous settings, including hospitals, clinics, long- and short-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, and home health care settings. Aside from traditional career settings, nurses are also employed in a variety of other sectors, including schools, mental health agencies, hospices, military facilities, and in nursing education and research. Some nurses even work in private practice, setting their own schedules and working as little or as often as they choose.
Earning Potential of Registered Nurses
What type of salary can you expect as a registered nurse? In 2012, the median annual pay in the field was $65,470 per year, or $31.48 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook in the future looks very promising as well, with employment expected to grow 19 percent between 2012-2022—faster than average for all job sectors. This growth is largely due to an increase in preventative care, medical and technological advancements that allow people to live longer, and the aging baby-boomer population.
Your Path to a New Career in Nursing
Becoming a registered nurse doesn’t take as long as you might think. At ECPI University’s College of Nursing, you can earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Health Science with a major in Registered Nursing in just 18 months through the University’s year-round program.
The subjects you’ll study include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and acute care. You’ll also take courses in surgical nursing, nutrition, communication, and cultural diversity.
Studying nursing is more than just reading a textbook, so part of your curriculum will include practical lab-based experience. You can learn how to work with people effectively and how to provide the most compassionate and competent care possible. You can also learn how to function as part of an interdisciplinary team, demonstrate critical thinking and decision-making skills, and provide culturally respectful support in multicultural settings.
Nursing Certification
To practice as a registered nurse, you will need to pass the pass the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). A solid nursing curriculum, practical lab experience, and your own initiative and dedication all work together to help you to pass this examination, become certified, and begin your rewarding career as a registered nurse.
If you believe you’ve got the personality and desire to become a registered nurse, contact ECPI University’s College of Nursing, Medical Careers Institute (MCI) today. It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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