Nursing is a very selfless and rewarding career that does not come without certain challenges. If you are considering a career in nursing it is important that you feel like you encompass these attributes.
Empathy
More often than not, nurses act as the link between patients, their family and the doctors. It is important that you are perceptive to how patients are feeling and that you can act accordingly to provide excellent care and emotional comfort. On the surface this may seem like an easy task, but nursing is a stressful job where traumatic situations are common. You need to be able to accept suffering and death without letting it get too personal. Be prepared for the occasional bout of compassion fatigue; it happens to everyone, but it is critical that you can identify it, reset, and come back efficiently. A great nurse is able to manage the stress of sad situations and draw strength from the heartwarming moments and triumphs that patients face.
Communication Skills
Most jobs require excellent communication, but when it comes to nursing it could be a matter of life or death. As a nurse, you are there to advocate for your patients, listen intently and anticipate their needs. Nurses are the link between doctors and patients so interpersonal skills are key. You will be exposed to a variety of situations with every personality type under the sun. Nurses are the glue that holds a hospital together, and a great nurse balances the needs of patients and doctors as seamlessly as possible.
Problem Solving
Problems will arise on a daily basis, and your ability to address those problems quickly and with extraordinary attention to detail will be crucial. A great nurse can think quick on their feet and address problems as they arise while maintaining a level head and calm attitude. Amongst the chaos, it is imperative to pay excellent attention to detail. From reading a patient’s chart correctly to remembering the nuances of a delicate case, there’s nothing that should be left to chance. One wrong move, no matter how small it may seem, can easily lead to death.
Flexibility and Endurance
A great nurse is flexible with regards to working hours and responsibilities. It is often expected that you will be working long hours, overtime, late-night shifts, and potentially weekends. The upside to this non-traditional schedule is that it means skipping the 9-5 rat race. Run errands, go to the gym or spend time with family on a random Wednesday. This career will afford you the luxury to do that. Physically, nursing is also a very demanding task. Standing for long periods of time, lifting heavy objects (patients included), and not always getting the time for a proper lunch break will be regular occurrences. To prepare for this physical strain, it is important to stay strong, eat right and sleep adequately in your everyday life.
If you feel like you would excel at the challenges that come along with nursing then you are in for an exciting and eventful ride. The tasks that nurses face on a daily basis are not for the faint of heart, but the rewards of helping people get back to a healthy and happy state provides immeasurable joy and satisfaction.
