Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers there is. It’s actually more of a calling. But it’s also highly demanding and mentally and emotionally challenging. You need to have skills that go beyond the technical or clinical skills you learn in nursing school.
Here’s What it Takes to Thrive in A Nursing Career
It’s not enough to have a mind for science and a heart that wants to help people. There are more traits and skills that good nurses possess. Of course a desire to help people is at the heart of any career in healthcare but caring too much often results in burnout and that’s contrary to thriving. Here we help you discern if you have what it takes to thrive in a nursing career. These are the skills that help you make your nursing career a success.
Compassion and Empathy
That calling you feel to help people is where it all begins. The nurse who has a basic desire to care for others and is able to seamlessly put themself in their patients’ shoes. A nurse’s compassion and empathy must remain non-judgmental and always “patient first” focused.
Physical Stamina
As a nurse you’ll be on your feet, at times, for more than 12 hours a day. Bending, squatting, pushing, lifting and moving patients takes a toll on your back, legs and shoulders. Nursing is physically demanding and in order to thrive in your nursing career you need to be up to the task. That’s not to say someone with physical limitations is excluded. Anyone with the necessary skills can become a nurse.
Excellent Communication Skills
Much of what a nurse is called upon to do involves communication. You’ll educate your patient so they can make informed decisions about their health and you will help their family members and supportive friends understand what your patient’s needs are going forward.
You’ll communicate critical information to your colleagues, doctors, labs and so forth. When you possess excellent communication skills you’re able to forge a stronger team with your coworkers. That means better patient care.
Emotionally Resilient
There will be times when you feel an immense and profound sadness over a patient’s outcome or stress from a particularly long and difficult shift or you may have an issue with a coworker that you can’t seem to resolve. All of these situations are emotionally overwhelming but the nurse who is able to compartmentalize those feelings and pause the emotional reaction while they focus on their patient will definitely thrive in a nursing career.
Please remember, a nurse is human and must always find a way to deal with those emotions. Whether you talk to a professional or seek guidance from a mentor you cant bury those feelings.
Adaptability
The healthcare industry is always changing. As new protocols are put in place and technology advances the nurse will be asked to adapt. That means learning how to operate new medical equipment, medical records software, and many other facets of healthcare. When you are open to learning new things and exhibit a willingness to be coached you’re not only demonstrating adaptability but also gaining knowledge and developing new skills along the way.
Multitasking
Not only will each patient have different needs that require different degrees of care but also you’ll have separate medical schedules for those patients. Inevitably you’re preparing medication for one while another is calling to you and your coworker needs something as well. Because oversights in patient care can have serious repercussions it’s essential that a nurse possess the skill of multitasking.
Thrive with Us
There are so many more skills that enhance your ability to thrive in a nursing career but these are top of the list. If you think you have what it takes and want to explore your opportunities contact BOS Medical Staffing. We’ll help you thrive.
