WHY NURSING?

Throughout this magazine, you will read about the many career directions a nursing education can take you. But why should you really consider nursing? We asked a panel of experts to weigh in on the 10 most compelling reasons to make nursing your life’s work.

1. EARNING POTENTIAL

According to Nursesalaryguide.net, average pay in Arkansas for a licensed practical nurse is $38,000; for a registered nurse it’s $59,000; and for a nurse practitioner, $95,000.

“How much you make will vary, depending upon the type of nursing you go into, the work environment and the shift you work. But, in general, for the cost of a two-year program, the earning potential for nurses can provide a household with a stable income.” Janet Smith, director, Associate Degree Program National Park College

2. FLEXIBILITY OF SCHEDULE

“Nurses can choose any schedule they want. If you are a 9-to-5 kind of person, you got it. If you would rather work nights, done. If you want to stay home during the week and make really good money working two shifts on the weekend, no problem. The possibilities are endless.” Melissa Drake-Rowe, clinical assistant professor UAMS College of Nursing

3. VARIETY OF WORK/TASKS

“In nursing, you are frequently multitasking, learning new skills, educating yourself and patients. There are many different areas you can work in, such as floor nursing, clinic nursing, travel nursing, home health, hospice, rehabilitation hospitals, nursing homes, management, education, schools, infusion clinics, etc. During any given day, I use many work skills, including starting IVs, drawing labs, accessing ports, calculating medications prior to administration, administering a variety of IV medications including chemotherapy, educating patients on medications, dressing changes, wound care and much more.” Eryn Zimmerebner, Short Stay Outpatient Unit Conway Regional Health System

4. JOB STABILITY

“There is a shortage of nurses and advanced practice nurses that remains in our state and nation. We need nurse leaders in the hospital and community to fill this gap. Additionally, we continue to face a significant primary care shortage in our state, especially in rural communities. We need more nurses to fill the primary care gap and improve health for all Arkansans.” Teresa Whited, associate dean of Academic Programs UAMS College of Nursing

5. PERSONAL SATISFACTION

“Nursing is a profession where you are valued and trusted by families, parents, doctors and co-workers. Every day you have an opportunity to be the difference in patients’ and families’ lives. What could be more satisfying than to give to those who need it most? Smiles, laughs, praises, hugs and cards are only the beginning of the cherished moments that happen on a daily basis.” Kayla Harrington, RNV-Neonatal ICU UAMS Health

6. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

“There are always job perks and benefits. These will depend on the job, but as a nurse educator, I have off every holiday, spring break, Christmas vacation and during summer vacation. It is a great job!” Janice Ivers, dean of Nursing & Health Science National Park College

7. RESPECTED PROFESSION

“Nurses are the backbone of any medical facility. We’re on the front line. We learn about patients’ medical and psychological health, make a care plan to better their health, and assist with other medical personnel to let the patient feel at ease. Everyone remembers their nurse; we either make or break a patient’s stay as a good experience or a bad one.” Nancy Haese, Vascular Access CHI St. Vincent

8. LOCATION OPTIONS

“Clinics, hospitals, surgery centers, schools, educational settings, courtrooms, sales offices, conference centers, political arenas and corporate America are common places to find nurses. In nursing, you can know what you want to do and achieve it, or you can see where the career takes you. Either way, you’re in for an adventure.” Holly Langster University of Central Arkansas

9. CONTINUING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES/LIFELONG LEARNING

“Nurses have several ways to continue learning throughout their careers. Obtaining national certification in your area of specialty demonstrates your dedication to excellence in practice and provides a wealth of continuing education credit opportunities. Attending professional conferences allows you to network with experts on a particular facet of nursing or medicine. Being a member of a professional nursing organization, particularly if it is associated with your area of practice, will give you access to contemporary research findings.” Kayla Bond, Cardiac Nurse Conway Regional Health System

10. OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADVANCEMENT

“Traditionally, one would have thought nursing was for the bedside only, taking care of people inside a hospital who are very sick. Over the last 10 years or so, nursing has been given new opportunities for not only the bedside nurse, but also for nurses who want to work in a clinic, with medical technology or many different specialties. The options are endless; being a nurse, you can work anywhere.” Rhonda Reed, quality management coordinator UAMS Health