Nursing is a demanding career. Many go into the industry bright-eyed, hoping to make a difference in the world by helping people. While nursing can be very rewarding, it requires a lot of strength.  What are the best (and worst) parts of being a nurse?  

Pro: You get to help people 

Many go into nursing because they feel called to help people. Nursing is a meaningful profession as you will be assisting and advocating for patients. As a nurse, you will see patients in their most vulnerable state. Being a trusted advocate can make a difference in their experience and their lives. You will have the chance to make patients feel cared for and heard during tough times. 

Con: You will see a LOT of things 

Being a nurse is not for the faint of heart. While there are many specialties and departments you can go to, chances are you will see a lot of things that will make the average person queasy. Beyond that, you will have to see patients in heartbreaking situations or even be there during their last moments. All of these things can take a toll on your mental health. 

Pro: There are always job openings 

Even before the pandemic, nurses were in high demand. There will always be jobs available for nurses, especially since nursing is a 24/7 job. Many hospitals have too many patients and not enough staff, so demand for nurses is still going strong. If you’re a nurse looking for a job, contact MEDRelief Staffing to see what contracts we have available for you.  

Con: You may feel overworked and underappreciated 

Nurses work tirelessly, and sometimes you might not feel appreciated enough. Many nurses work long shifts and wear many hats due to staffing shortages. Shifts can be long, and task lists endless, making for an overwhelming environment. At the same time, your compassionate acts go unseen by the public and your facility’s administrators. Burnout is common in the industry, but there are ways to alleviate burnout for healthcare workers.

Pro/Con: Life-long Learning 

Depending on who you are, this could be a pro or a con. Nurses are lifelong learners, and you will need to keep up your license with continuing education. Since healthcare is always changing, and new technology is being introduced, nurses need to stay on top of new advancements. The good news is many facilities will reimburse you for your continuing education, but if you are not a fan of learning, this would be a downside. If you’re looking for nursing CE, check out Advanced Health Education Center at aheconline.com! As a bonus, all staff employed by MEDRelief receive staffing credits they can use for free continuing education.

Nursing Has Many Sides 

These were just a few pros and cons of being a nurse. Nursing, like all jobs, has its advantages and disadvantages. It is a difficult job, and it’s not meant for everybody. There are tough days, but there are also times when it makes everything worth it. What are some of your favorite moments as a nurse?