Due to an aging population, advances in medical technology and frequent legislative changes, healthcare has become of the fastest growing sectors of the US economy. For those looking for a new career or considering their options while at college or high school, a job in the healthcare industry can offer a level of job security that you won’t find with many other roles.
One of the most in-demand healthcare positions is nursing. Nurses are required across the US and training to be a nurse has never been easier. There are nursing and medical assistant programs in New York and right across the US to the west coast, making it simple to study locally. But before you take the plunge and apply for a nursing course, it is important to ask yourself whether you are cut out for the position. These are the key qualities you need to be a successful nurse:
Thriving under pressure
Handling stress and operating under pressure are a key part of being a nurse. While some areas of nursing are more stressful than others, there will always be the possibility of emergency situations, in which you will be challenged to make the right decision under pressure. Many people thrive in such a dynamic, fast-moving environment, and if you’re the kind of person who would get bored in a regular office environment, then nursing could be for you.
Ability to handle unpleasant sights
Let’s be honest, if you are at all squeamish or fussy, you may struggle with nursing. All nurses, even those who eventually move on to other areas, will initially have to spend time carrying out bedside care, which means changing dressings, administering injections and even helping patients with bathing and using the toilet. Unpleasant sights come with the job, and those who are particularly squeamish and feel faint at the sight of blood are unlikely to be able to cope!
People skills
Are you a people person? Not everyone is comfortable working around other people, but as a nurse, that is essential to your job. You will be required to deal not just with patients, but other healthcare professionals, patients and family members, so interaction with others will play a central part in your job role. Those who enjoy interacting with new people will find nursing an ideal career.
Strength and patience
To be a good nurse, you need to have a thick skin. Not only are you under pressure to make the right decision on a regular basis, you will also have to deal with a lot of people, some of whom are angry or challenging, and many of whom are simply struggling to cope with a difficult situation and take out their frustration on the nursing staff. You need to be tough in order to deal with that type of behavior, while continuing to deliver a life-saving service.
Conclusion
There are many attributes that make a good nurse, but if you exhibit those outlined above, there is every chance that you can be a success in this demanding but rewarding career.