The demand for new nurses has never been greater
For anyone who is questioning the fact that there is a huge demand for new nurses, a quick look at the latest statistics will make it abundantly clear that there is a nursing shortage in the United States.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of registered nurses will grow by 15% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is largely due to an aging population and an increasing focus on preventive care.
Additionally, the American Nurses Association reports that nearly 80% of nurses say they are frequently or always overextended or have too heavy a patient load which can lead to burnout, and this can in turn lead to higher turnover and further exacerbate the shortage.
If you are considering a career in nursing, or are already working as a nurse, it is important to be aware of the potential for a nursing shortage.
Keep an eye on job openings in your area and be prepared to relocate if necessary, or you might consider pursuing a higher degree in nursing, which could give you more flexibility in terms of where you work.
It should be noted that this nursing shortage applies to other countries as well as the United States, which just goes to show that the demand for qualified nurses has never been higher.
Job opportunities for nurses
It is worth remembering that nursing is a rewarding and challenging career that can make a difference in the lives of others.
There are many different types of nursing jobs available, from working in a hospital to becoming a research nurse or even starting your own home healthcare business, so whatever path you choose, your career in nursing can be both personally and professionally fulfilling.
If you are interested in a career in nursing, here are just a few of the many different types of nursing jobs available:
- Hospital nursing: working in a hospital is one of the most common types of nursing jobs. Hospital nurses may work in a variety of departments, such as surgical nursing, medical-surgical nursing, labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care or pediatrics.
- Clinic nursing: nurses who work in clinics may provide primary care or specialize in a particular area, such as geriatrics, sports medicine or women’s health.
- Home healthcare nursing: home healthcare nurses provide nursing care to patients who are unable to leave their homes. This type of nursing job can be both challenging and rewarding, as you help patients maintain their independence and quality of life.
- Nursing education: nurses who enter the field of nursing education may teach at a nursing school or hospital, or work as a nurse consultant. Nursing educators play an important role in preparing future nurses for the challenges of the profession.
- Nursing administration: those interested in a management career may want to consider a job in nursing administration. Nursing administrators plan, direct, and coordinate the delivery of healthcare services.
- Nursing research: nurses who enter the field of research may work in a hospital, university or research institute. Nursing research is vital to the advancement of the profession, and nurses who engage in research help to improve patient care and outcomes.
There are many different types of nursing jobs available, so there is sure to be one that is right for you. No matter what type of nursing job you choose, you will find that it is both personally and professionally rewarding. So, if you are interested in a career in nursing, do not hesitate to explore all your options.
Becoming a second career nurse
Are you thinking about making a career change and becoming a nurse? You are not alone — many people choose to pursue nursing as a second career. It can be a great choice, as nursing is a fulfilling and rewarding profession that offers plenty of opportunities for growth.
If you are interested in becoming a second career nurse, there are a few things you will need to achieve before making the transition.
For example, there is a requirement to study and complete an accredited program and then pass an NCLEX-RN exam in order to gain the specific nursing license.
After you have obtained your nursing license, you will need to find a job at a hospital or other healthcare facility. Once you have gained some experience, you may want to pursue further education and training to specialize in a particular area of nursing.
One option when becoming a second career nurse is to take advantage of the Distance Accelerated BSN Program offered by Baylor University, which has an excellent reputation in preparing graduates to earn their RN licensure in as little as one year.
Conclusion
If you are someone that is interested in a second career, and if the thought of becoming a nursing professional appeals to you, there has never been a better time to get involved.
It is often the case that individuals reach a point in their career where they feel that there must be more to life.
Perhaps they have become bored with their present occupation, or it could be that the recent pandemic has caused them to look at their values and reassess what they want out of life.
The great thing is, it is possible to become involved with a distance learning program that can be carried out alongside normal working hours so there is no risk involved.
Yes, you will have to spend time learning instead of watching the TV, for example, but think of the many benefits that come with becoming a second career nurse.
When you also take into consideration that the demand for qualified nurses has never been greater, taking the time to gain the necessary qualifications becomes something of a no-brainer, and it is one of those circumstances where you will look back in a few years time and realize that your decision to train to become a nurse was one of the best you ever made.