| Nursing is a growing field, and a popular entry point into a career in medicine. The work may be unglamorous and demanding, but it is deeply rewarding: As a nurse, you have the power to save lives and make a real difference for your patients.
Unlike many other jobs, becoming a nurse requires you to go through a significant amount of education and training. Before you commit to the cost and time of nursing school, its important to be sure that this career is right for you.
Nurses are constantly communicating: listening to patients and their families, giving important medical information, and working with other nurses and doctors. You'll need to assess your patients conditions accurately, as well as explaining medications, treatments and important instructions.
Emotional strength and stability will be your cornerstone: As a nurse, you'll be helping others deal with their stress while managing your own. You will constantly be exposed to the realities of human suffering, and possibly to stressful medical emergencies. |
One of the greatest qualities a nurse can have is the ability to connect with patients emotionally, to understand the patients needs and motivations when they are hurting, tired, and frustrated. The ability to be empathetic or to put yourself in another persons shoes may be found more among nurses than in any other professional field.
As a nurse, you will face difficult patients, conflicts, confusion and stress. Your mission is to provide excellent care, no matter what is happening around you. Nurses have to be on even during times when you may not be feeling your best. That may include the need to swallow your own frustration and work together with patients and coworkers, even when they rub you the wrong way.