Nursing is more than just a career path since it is a calling that involves helping people from different backgrounds. Most people who venture into this profession do so because of their natural will to make a difference in the lives of others. Impacting someone else’s life is gratifying, which makes nursing among the few rewarding careers. Other than the highs of nursing, the job can be physically, emotionally and mentally taxing. Burnouts are common among healthcare providers due to the demanding nature of their careers. This makes it essential for you to venture into this profession for the right reasons other than for the benefits.
Fundamentals of nursing by Lecturio may be insightful for anyone with the desire to become a nurse. Besides being a rewarding career, here are other reasons why you should pursue a nursing degree.
1. Competitive salary
Different countries have varying rates for their nurses. Note that the amount of money you will be paid depends on other factors such as:
- Level of education
- Experience
- Specialty
- Job-status
- Geographic location
Besides getting better earnings than in most professions, nurses get other benefits like tuition reimbursement, life insurance, savings, pension and medical-dental-vision insurance. Compensation for school fees allows nurses to advance their learning with no fear of financial costs.
2. It gives you a sense of purpose
While the salaries for most posts may be enticing, this is not a career that you can thrive in if money is your drive. Most nurses regard their job as an art rather than a profession. More than doctors do, nurses spend most of their time beside patients, some with critical conditions.
Part of being a nurse is being at a person’s side when they feel low and are at their most vulnerable stage. Besides addressing their health needs, nurses offer emotional support to the affected families in times of crisis, including losing a loved one. Seeing patients recover from long-term illnesses makes you content and gives you joy.
3. It is a flexible job
Working hours for nurses vary depending on the facility you work in. They work in shifts, with some reporting in the evening and others during the day. This creates more flexibility in your day-to-day schedule as you can choose to work during the night if you are not a morning person.
Nurses in residential facilities stay longer shifts to minimize possible mistakes when handing over patients to different caregivers—those working for long hours like a 12-hour shift report to work three days each week. Although extended shifts can be exhausting, they give you extra days to unwind and recharge. With proper planning, you can attain a balance between your work and personal life.
4. High on demand
Healthcare needs will always be there regardless of how things are set up. For this reason, employers will always be on the lookout for nurses to care for patients. Other than hospitals, these healthcare providers work in different settings, including schools, care homes, and workplaces.
With the right qualifications, you have a better chance of getting employment right after obtaining your license. The recent outbreak of COVID-19 was an eye-opener on the importance of healthcare workers in society.
5. Allows you to find your niche
Other than working a 12-hour shift in a hospital, nurses have many other opportunities in other areas. For instance, you can choose to offer your services online rather than reporting to work.
You can be a bedside nurse for patients who cannot stay in a hospital or other healthcare facilities for one reason or the other. Other options include legal nursing, school nursing, nursing education and administration.
6. Travel opportunities
Nursing is an exciting perk for those people with a bit of wanderlust. Since healthcare services are a necessity around the globe, nurses have the chance to work in whichever place they desire. Thanks to the different agencies available, you can find a travel job that fits your qualification and experience in a faraway country. Working in other countries is an excellent way to network while exposing yourself to different workspaces.
Although nurses have the exact scope of work as doctors, they spend most of their days and nights attending to the needs of people. They form the backbone of the healthcare industry and play a crucial role in promoting good health, managing conditions, and preventing complications.
