The pros and cons of nursing, including making a positive difference, flexible scheduling and dealing with emotional strain, are important aspects to consider before choosing nursing. At UIW, we believe that the pros of nursing outweigh the cons and that you will find purpose and meaning as a nurse.
Caring for people in need, providing compassionate support and making a difference in many people’s lives are just a few ways nurses define patient care; however, nurses face many challenges in their careers. Knowing the pros and cons of nursing is an essential aspect of deciding if a nursing career is right for you.
At the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW), we believe there are many pros of a nursing career. This field offers meaning and purpose. Our Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track helps eligible students earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in as few as 16 months.
Pros About Being a Nurse: The Rewards That Make It Worth It
Nursing offers numerous rewards that make it worthwhile. Nurses make a daily difference in people’s lives by helping patients overcome health challenges. Whether working in a clinical environment, such as a hospital, or a non-clinical environment, such as a school, nurses use their skills to provide aid to those in need. You can experience personal fulfillment in your job every day as a nurse.
Another pro about being a nurse is their high earning potential. Depending on your location and what specialty you enter, you can potentially earn significantly more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurses make an average salary of $93,600. Additionally, most healthcare employers provide comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, paid time off and 401(k) matching.
Career Stability, Purpose and Opportunities for Growth
Nurses are in high demand, and this demand will only grow as time goes on. It is projected to grow 5% between 2024 and 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. Nursing is a career in which you will find job opportunities nearly anywhere you live. You can also advance your career by becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or pursuing leadership positions.
Learn more about accelerated nursing tracks.
Challenges Within Nursing
A nursing career can be physically demanding, as you spend most of your days on your feet, lifting patients and assisting in their activities of daily living. You will also likely work long shifts; however, there is schedule flexibility, and shift types depend on the healthcare facility. Still, the rewards of a nursing career can outweigh these drawbacks.
Nursing school can also be challenging. Through UIW’s ABSN track, you can start your nursing career sooner by earning a degree in as few as 16 months. However, bear in mind that with an accelerated track, you will need to work hard, as the curriculum is rigorous and fast-paced. Fortunately, you will be supported by our dedicated faculty, and small class sizes make it possible for instructors to provide personalized support.
The Emotional Impact of Caring for Patients Every Day
As a nurse, you will constantly provide care to vulnerable patients or those in difficult situations. You may have to work long days where you are always on your feet and then care for patients who are in pain or upset. You may also have to deal with the emotional strain of negative patient outcomes. If you are considering becoming a nurse, be sure you consider the emotional realities of nursing care.
What Your Daily Life Could Really Look Like as a Nurse
Another pro is the flexibility. Most hospitals offer flexible schedules, including 12-hour shifts, so you can have more time off between workdays. As a nurse, you can also work in a variety of settings in hospitals, healthcare centers, schools, clinics or in telehealth.
As a nurse, you will care for patients assigned to you throughout your shift. You might complete health assessments, administer medications and assist with the general care of your patients. You will also educate your patients and their families about treatments and serve as an advocate for them.
What does it take to be a nurse? Learn about the essential skills, traits and qualifications.
How to Decide If Nursing Fits Your Passion and Personality
To decide if nursing is right for you, reflect on these questions.
- Do you have a strong desire to help others?
- Can you stay calm and focused in a fast-paced environment?
- Would you enjoy being a lifelong learner about health, science and technology?
- Are you able to provide care for vulnerable people in difficult situations?
- Can you communicate with your team members well?
If the answer to these questions is yes, then nursing might be right for you. In an ABSN track, you enter the nursing workforce and begin to make a difference more quickly than you might think.
Pursue Your Nursing Career at UIW
After reading about the rewards and challenges of nursing, you may be ready to take the next step of beginning nursing school. If you’re ready to become a nurse, consider exploring the ABSN track at UIW.
To learn more about our ABSN track, request information to connect with an admissions representative.