If you are looking for a job where you can make a real difference, you may have thought about becoming a nurse. Nursing is an inclusive field, and people of all ages and backgrounds have something to offer – both to their potential role as a nurse and to patients.
Currently, the average age of a registered nurse (RN) in the United States is 50, according to the American Nurses Association (ANA). Nurses represent a diverse group of people and many have chosen to go into nursing after previously holding other jobs, such as being a teacher, police officer, firefighter and even a farmer.
The reasons people choose nursing as a second career are varied:
You Can Find Variety
Nursing offers plenty of options for variety. You can specialize in a specific field of medicine, such as oncology, hospice or maternity. Every day is different as you will likely see new patients and encounter new cases. Additionally, a variety of industries hire nurses. While you probably imagine working at a hospital, doctor’s office or clinic, those are just some of the places you can work. Nurses also have opportunities for employment on cruise ships, pharmaceutical companies, law offices, schools and publishing firms.
You Can Make a Difference
Quite simply: nurses change lives. In this role, your job is to care for others, helping patients and their families, often when they need it the most. Nurses frequently say their job is their calling—one that is very rewarding. If you are looking for a heightened sense of purpose, becoming a nurse gives you an opportunity to make a difference every day.
You Can Use Different Skills
Most nurses will use a variety of skills each day. This can be challenging but also exciting and rewarding. For example, nurses must think on their feet and quickly evaluate patients, taking immediate action when necessary. Nurses also need to communicate well with patients in order to understand their conditions and effectively discharge them. Nurses often juggle multiple patients and cases at one time, and organization skills are vital. And nurses must act with patience and compassion as they often encounter people when they are in the midst of a difficult situation.
The Career Outlook Is Positive
Becoming a nurse can be rewarding in other ways, as well. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for registered nurses are projected to grow 12 percent over the next decade. This could make nursing a good second career and worth considering if you were previously employed in a field that is no longer stable.
It is never too late to make a career change, especially if you want to make a move into the field of nursing. If you are interested in getting on the path to this rewarding vocation, Fortis can help you get your start. Click here for more information or call us today atand speak to one of our career counselors.