What is it like to be a Nurse?

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If you consider being a nurse, then you should know that this career comes with both advantages and disadvantages. In case you have ever wondered, “what is it like to be a nurse?” you will find all your answers within this article. To begin with, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing is one of the largest healthcare occupations; the employment in this industry is expected to increase by 19% until 2022. The job outlook for health treating and diagnosing practitioners will grow by 20%, so the difference is minimal. Now, let’s see what being a nurse means.

You Will Earn More

The average salary for a registered nurse is $65,470 per year, which is quite high as compared to many other industries. However, your wage will depend on your experience, work establishment, education, specialization and program (holidays, weekends, night, days etc.). Most of the nurses work in hospitals (almost 60%). Moreover, as a nurse, you will probably be paid hourly, so if you need some extra bucks, you are always welcomed to work overtime.

Be Prepared for Physical Work

Nursing can be a demanding job, so the salary you will earn won’t be easy money. Being a nurse also involves physical demands, as most of the times you will have to be on your feet. Your shift can last between 8 and 12 hours, during which, you will have to lift, pull, push, stretch and bend while assisting your patients. Sometimes, this workout can offer you better results than the gym.

You Will Have Variable and Flexible Shifts

This can be both an advantage and disadvantage. The flexible hours will allow you to arrange your schedule where it will be convenient for you. Still, at the same time, your program will be erratic, with shifts rotating every week or even every day. You will also have night shifts and you must be prepared to work during holidays and weekends. If a program from 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday is not that appealing to you, then nursing is the right career fit. Finally, you must be available to work “on call,” meaning that if there is an emergency requiring your skills and help, you should be ready to leave everything behind and go to work. However, this happens rarely, so you should not be worried about this scenario.

You will be a Problem Solver

Unlike doctors, you will be the one who will stay near the patients day and night. As a result, you must be prepared to listen to them and offer them all the support they need. You will have to create plans of care and offer personal comfort and care. At the same time, one of your duties will be to educate the patients and their families and caregivers regarding their health status along with proper treatments. You will also have to inform them about self-care and the benefits it brings. Other duties will imply taking diagnostic tests, giving treatments, helping the patients while transporting them to tests, operating complex equipment, and always consulting with the healthcare professionals and doctors regarding the patients’ treatment and health.