Nursing - The Possibilities Are Endless

When many people think about the profession of nursing - they imagine a person in scrubs taking care of patients on a hospital unit. They think this is what nurses do and where they belong. 

When ACTUALLY - the profession reaches far greater than this one idea of a nurse. Yes, working at the bedside in the hospital is a big pool of nurses, but nurses hold so many other roles in and outside of the hospital. And 'patient care' isn't even on the job description.

That's right - you can be a nurse and NOT take care of patients. And we need to break the stigma that you're not a REAL nurse unless you do. 

Other than direct caregiving, nurses hold so many roles. Education, leadership, process improvement, project management, care management, clinical research - the list could continue on and on.

So when you think about the trajectory of your nursing career - there is more than just med-surg, ICU, or ER. There are countless opportunities out there, many of which you don't even know exist.

When I was in nursing school and starting my career - I had no idea there were vascular access nurses who just went around the hospital starting IV's and lines.

I didn't know there were nurses who worked in risk management, addressing safety concerns and making healthcare safer for nurses and patients.

I didn't know there was an entire department called 'patient relations' designed to make the patient experience as good as possible, and address patient complaints.

And the fact that these departments were staffed and run by nurses!

You really need to get into the nursing profession and start working to see these opportunities. You definitely don't learn about all of these in nursing school. 

An RN license opens so many doors. If you're feeling burnt out at the bedside - know you have  options and you don't have to do patient care to be a 'real nurse'. Ultimately, the only thing that matters is you and the happiness and fulfillment you get from your job. It really doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.

I still remember the disappointment I felt when I shared with a co-worker friend that I had accepted a position as a nurse supervisor. I was so excited to move into leadership and try something new. I texted my friend. He responded 'so you're going for an office job now? Is it just for the money or what?'

My feelings were hurt. There was no 'congrats'...not even a 'good luck.' It just felt like shaming for leaving patient care. It was hurtful, but it was my first lesson that not everyone will understand or support you. You just have to be steadfast in your decisions and do what is best for you.

Looking for career guidance or advice? Shoot me an email! [email protected]