Welcome to the Beyond the Bedside series. My name is Anne Llewellyn. I am a nurse leader and an educator with a broad array of experience in nursing and the vast healthcare arena. Currently, I am Director of Training and Development with Dorland Health.
As a leader, I am often asked by nurses, “What can I do beyond the bedside?” Each Tuesday, in this column, I will be highlighting careers that nurses can consider as they advance in the profession. Today, nurses have tremendous opportunities and career options. Your nursing education, bedside experience, and your own life experience are the preparations that allow you to be successful in your career.
Unfortunately, there is not a clear source for nurses to discover their potential and learn about the vast opportunities open to them. It is my hope that his column will serve as that resource.
Beginning a Nursing Career
When nurses graduate from nursing school, most look for positions that allow them to put the theory they learned in school into practice, gain confidence in their new role, and hone their nursing skills. Many begin by looking at hospitals in their local areas. They may start out on a medical-surgical floor, in a skilled care facility, a rehabilitation center, or at a home care agency in an entry-level position.
Let’s say you’re one of those new nurses. When you interview for a position, one of the key questions you should ask is about the orientation program. This will ensure that you will be introduced to your role and have the supervision you need. Your first role will allow you to get comfortable with the challenges that you will face as you leave the security of school. It will help you understand what it means to be a nurse.
One thing is for sure: working as a new nurse is an eye-opening experience that sheds light on the complexity of healthcare. Be patient, give yourself time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Those early years will be what you remember as an experienced nurse and many times will be viewed as cherished memories.
When, Where, and How Do Nurses Start Looking for New Jobs?
Most nurses usually spend 3-4 years in their introductory roles before starting to look for their next steps. Many people look to move up the ladder in the organization where they have worked. They may seek a team leadership role, move into a supervisory role, or take advantage of other leadership opportunities. The key is to know when it is time to move, but this will be different for everyone.
Many decide to return to school for additional training to complete their bachelor’s degree or work toward their master’s degree. Today, as a result of the Future of Nursing Report, it is recommended that the basic entry level for nursing is a bachelor’s degree. If you have not achieved your bachelor’s in nursing, this may be a good time to consider that step.
In addition to formal training, professional development is important to ensure that you are prepared to work in the changing world of healthcare. Take advantage of in-services that your organization offers. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
Some nurses also look at certification in their specific area of expertise. Certification provides a way for you to validate your baseline experience. Many organizations working toward Magnet status encourage their nurses to become certified as a medical-surgical nurse or another area which the American Nurses Credentialing Center offers.
In addition, joining a professional organization like the American Nurses Association can provide a way for you to network with others. Networking is a good way to learn about new opportunities in your field and to learn what other organizations are doing during these changing times in healthcare.
Finding your role in the industry is something that you will discover over time. Again, be patient and be alert for opportunities. Start planning your career goals so you stay on track.