Pros/Cons of Nursing

[Serenyd]

I need help putting together a pro's and con's of nursing list for my sister. She is thinking about becoming a nurse and I don't know what to say to her ... I am a new nurse myself and having a hard time sometimes. I want to be able to present a clear picture (clear as possible) of what nursing is like for her. Do you recommend nursing as a career to family members? I want to steer her in the right direction.

Thanks Seren

[Genista, BSN, RN]

I'll help you out. This has been done before I think, though. I am sure others will add to the list.

Pros:

Helping people/being there for them when they need it the most

making a difference in someone's life

The ability to change specialties and have a new career yet still be a nurse

Challenging/never boring

working with a team

flexible hours (days,evenings, nights, 8 or 12 hour shifts)

part time or full time work

good pay (in my area, but not true for everywhere)

a career in which you can grow professionally & learn & advance

teaching patients and families

hands on care

Cons:

sometimes workload is very heavy & you get no breaks and/or overtime

sometimes patients & families are demanding and unappreciative

working holidays sometimes

working odd hours/weekends

having to attend many inservices to keep current with skills and knowledge

unglamourous aspects of the job (commodes/bodily fluids, etc.)

responsible for patients' safety can be stressful when workload heavy

fast pace and scarce resources sometimes (not enough staff, etc.)

lots of paperwork

many rules and policies to follow

Hope that helps get you started.I would recommend nursing as a career to family, because I feel there are more pros than cons, and there is MUCH opportunity and flexibility in nursing.