Know the Work of Nurses Before You Become One

By Brent McNutt

"What do you do for a living?" This question gets to the nitty gritty of our jobs. It goes beyond the job title. It goes beyond the salary. It even goes beyond the "job description." When people ask this question, it gets to the heart of our job. For example, an incident manager might reply, "I contact people who know what they are doing, and then I ask them what they are doing." Likewise, if you are considering becoming a nurse, then you should have a clear sense of what the job entails. Here are some key elements:

1. Nursing is flexible

Nurses have one of the most flexible occupations in the world. Think about it this way: every person in the world has health, thus they need healthcare services. If you are a breathing human, then you can get sick. Typically, we imagine nurses working in hospitals. However, they can labor in several different environments, including:

• hospitals
• doctors' offices
• home care places
• nursing homes
• occupational places
• schools
• government agencies
• clinics
• retirement communities

Many nurses appreciate the flexible hours that they enjoy, as nurses. This allows them to keep a balance between their professional and personal lives.

2. Nursing can be demanding

On the other hand, the demand for nurses has become increasingly high, with about 6% of nursing positions being yet unfilled. This can place a strain at some healthcare facilities, requiring nurses to work overtime or even double shifts.

Furthermore, in certain situations, nurses need to provide patient care 24 hours a day, and seven days a week. Fortunately, certain methods can help nurses to cope with the situation. For instance, scrubs such as cheap landau scrubs provide nurses with attire that is lightweight, comfortable, and hygienic. Nevertheless, providing around-the-clock nursing care for a patient can place a huge strain on the nurses themselves. This can result in both physical and emotional stress.

3. Nursing provides a solid salary and benefits

How much do nurse earn? According to official studies of the US government, RNs' median yearly earnings are about $52,000 (2004). During that year, RNs salaries ranged from about $37,000, to about $74,800. Those RNs working in emergency departments, and those with their own nursing practice, earned up to $90,000! Finally, several employers of nurses provide the workers with benefits such as bonuses, educational benefits, and childcare.

4. Nursing involves education and training

Education and training are vital in the field of nursing. All nurses must earn a nursing license, before they can practice in any state, as a nurse. Afterwards, nurses may renew their license. They can also hold licenses in multiple states. Finally, RNs can earn an associates', bachelors' or masters' degree in nursing, opening the doors for salary raises and promotions.

What is the world of nursing REALLY like? The aforementioned aspects include a few of the most important features of nurses' work, such wearing scrubs. Before knowing that you want to be a nurse, know what you would do!