The training that community college nurses receive enables them to acquire multiple skills and considerable medical knowledge. These can be used to pursue a wide range of careers in both clinical and non-clinical settings. Diligent individuals can rise through the ranks or pursue non-traditional paths. Post-graduate education may lead to better opportunities in different fields. The following are just some of the options available:
Administration
Most people start out as an entry-level nurse within hospitals, clinics, and similar facilities. They are typically assigned to provide direct care to patients. This is a very rewarding job but it can be quite stressful as well. Over time, they may choose to shift to more administrative types of work and use their expertise to ensure that the facility runs smoothly behind the scene. They could eventually be given a supervisory or managerial role with the task of improving internal processes for the efficient delivery of services. This career path requires a high degree of organizational skills.
Home Health Care
Those who enjoy direct contact with patients but prefer a less turbulent setting may want to look into home health care. This nursing specialty calls for long-term arrangements with individual patients who are often among the elderly but may also be children having extreme difficulties. The objective is to monitor the patient's condition and hasten the progress of treatment. Ideally, the end result is a return to full physical independence. This means gaining back mobility and strength. Nurses who serve in this capacity should possess excellent interpersonal skills, lots of patience, and a sincere desire to help.
Travel
Free spirits don't have to be tied down to one location forever. They can apply in a nursing agency for temporary placement in medical facilities across the country in 4 to 13-week stints. International postings are also possible and may last for one to two years. It is a great opportunity to travel for free while working at the same time so the finances are taken care of. It's the type of job that works well for young and independent people who are embrace this near-nomadic lifestyle. It calls for a willingness to embrace the unknown.
Research
Obtaining a doctorate degree will be handy if one intends to delve deeper into health concerns through research. Nursing researchers design and conduct studies to shed light on nagging questions involving the practice. Such studies usually take a considerable amount of time and money to complete. Funding comes from the grants given by public and private institutions. There are limited funds and a surplus of applications. Writing a convincing proposal then following through with useful results will be necessary for success. Adherence to strict deadlines is a must.
Education
Most researchers supplement their income by teaching in a medical college. This works out well since they are considered as the primary experts in their field. With their help, students can gain a greater understanding of the latest developments in the field and the medical community as a whole. A career as an educator serves as a chance to return to the roots and give back by preparing the next generation of nurses. It is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who enjoy being in an academic setting.
Consultancy
There are quite a number of medical cases brought to the courts. Law firms need consultants who are knowledgeable when it comes to the inner workings of the field. Highly experienced nursing graduates can fill this role while working independently. Firms that specialize in these types of cases might have a whole department filled with former nurses who assist lawyers in data gathering, interpretation, and strategic planning.
About The Author
Sarah Daren is a writer who creates informative articles relating to the field of health. In this article, she describes the various careers in nursing and aims to encourage further study with a masters in science in nursing program online.
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