Looking for Job Satisfaction? Consider the Nursing Profession It's 7 a.m. and your shift is just starting. The floor is waking up. It's been 18 hours since you've seen Mr. Smith. You know he is recovering from an auto accident and is not a happy patient. He wants to get some work done, but his doctor wants him to rest and focus on his recovery. You walk into his room and he's agitated. It's your job to help calm him down.
Patients perceive nurses as true caregivers. That's why many people chose the nursing profession. While physicians take care of a patient's physical well being, nurses are seen as consolers, comforters and counselors. Patients are more apt to share their true feelings with a nurse, feelings they may not share with their physicians. Often these feelings are more emotional than medical, involving isolation, loneliness, fear and uncertainty.
If this kind of work interests you, where do you start? Whether you are a high school senior or a career changer, there are many opportunities available. Community colleges, colleges and universities offer a variety of programs and degrees ranging from a certificate's program to an associate's degree to a baccalaureate degree. Research the type of work you feel best suits your needs. Review college course catalogs. Look at class schedules. Visit the campus and meet the faculty. Many programs are specially designed to prepare students for direct entry to health careers.
In response to community needs, Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) has specialized short-term courses or technical certificates. Some programs have agreements with four-year colleges and universities that enable the partial or complete transfer of NVCC course work to four-year degree programs. Visit http://www.nv.cc.va.us/curcatalog/programs/general.htm for further information about the various programs, course catalog and entrance requirements.
Don't delay! Listen to your heart. You know the nursing profession has been calling your name. Start your research now to begin a course of study that will open your world to genuine excitement and rewards. Make a difference.
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