While being a nurse is not an easy career, it is gratifying. If you are looking into a career in healthcare, here are five perks of being a nurse that could help make your decision easier.
Perk #1- Nurses are in high demand
Going into a career in healthcare has never been more needed than today. Skilled and compassionate nurses are in high demand. No matter where you are in the world, the skills and knowledge you carry as a nurse are vital. The need for nurses will grow, promising job security for both old and new nurses.
Perk #2- Opportunity for growth
Advancing in your nursing career is more straightforward than in many other occupations. You can take many opportunities to grow in your career, such as receiving a Master’s in Nursing or a Doctorate in Nursing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, opportunities for nurse practitioners are projected to grow 38 percent from 2022 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. If you are an asset to the facility you work for, they will likely provide tuition benefits for furthering your nursing education. And, of course, along with career advancement comes a pay increase.
Perk #3- High earning potential
The income for nurses is pretty good. As a registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree, the BLS estimates the median salary as $81,220 annually. Additionally, a master’s or doctorate in nursing earns more because of their extra training and education.
Perk #4- Variety of work settings
Being a nurse doesn’t mean being limited to one specialty or setting. Nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, in-homes, or even travel for their jobs. You also have a variety of specialties to work in, depending on your interests and strengths.
Specialties can include:
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics
- Neonatal
- Mental Health
- Geriatrics
- Women’s Health
- Oncology
- Emergency Room
- Labor and Delivery
- Trauma
There are many specialties in need of nurses. Therefore, exploring multiple areas of interest is more manageable for nurses.
Perk #5- Making a difference
Nurses have more direct contact with patients than most other medical specialists. In general, the quality of the nursing staff will have the most effect on a patient’s experience in the healthcare setting. Nurses save lives and improve the quality of life for their patients. If your goal is to change people’s lives, nursing may be your perfect career.
Ready to become a nurse?
Concordia University offers many flexible options for you to start your path to being a nurse. Learn more about our School of Nursing.