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NURSING AS A PROFESSION

Nurses make up the largest segment of the healthcare workforce and interact with more patients than any other profession in healthcare. Nursing shortage is a global issue that is impacting the U.S. in an unprecedented manner. The shortage of registered nurses is the number one concern of health system leaders.

With RN employment projected to grow over 9%, higher than the average for other occupations, with just under 200,000 openings annually since 2020, it is one of the most in-demand and respected fields today.

WHY CHOOSE A NURSING CAREER?

OPPORTUNITY, OPTIONS, AND RESPECT

Not only is a nursing career emotionally fulfilling and rewarding, there are tangible benefits, too. Opportunities with nursing being the fastest-growing occupation in the US; options with over 100 specialties from which to choose and a number of advanced nursing degrees; and flexibility with various combinations of work schedules depending on the location and specialty you choose.

Also, nursing is a respected career field, with a high level of esteem. According to a Gallup Poll, more than 80% of Americans rated nurses as having “high” or “very high” honesty and ethical standards. Nurses have topped their list every year since 1999, except for 2001 when firefighters were rated higher after their prominent role in 9/11 rescue efforts.

Learn more, and see why a career in nursing might be right for you: Why Become a Nurse.

BENEFITS OF A NURSING CAREER

FLEXIBILITY. REWARD. SATISFACTION.

As a nurse, you will continue to learn and grow every day, not only as a healthcare professional, but as a compassionate human being, affecting the lives of everyone you touch. Nurses have the satisfaction of providing their patients with the highest quality of care, helping to increase their comfort and speed their recovery.

Nurses are also needed nationwide, so graduates are likely to have an opportunity to work in many locations across the country. And because hospitals and other medical facilities are looking for nurses, salaries are likely to be competitive – especially for nurses in advanced practice.

WHAT KIND OF PERSON MAKES A GREAT NURSE?

COMPASSION, COMMITMENT, AND EXCELLENCE

Nurses love helping people. They’re truly passionate about the human spirit, recognizing that a genuine smile can make a patient’s day. They’re able to pay close attention to the details, analyze data, make decisions, stay calm and perform in high-pressure situations.

The best nurses are the ones who possess patience and empathy as it helps them see things from the patients’ perspective. They also have a tremendous work ethic, going above and beyond, not only for their patients but for their colleagues as well.

As a nurse, excellent communication skills are a vital part of the job and essential for your success. You must be able to clearly articulate, both verbally and non-verbally as you will be working with patients, families, doctors and other hospital staff, each with varying educational, cultural and social backgrounds. Of course, you must also be a good listener. If you think that describes you, you could be an ideal fit for an incredibly rewarding career in nursing.