Looking for a Healthy Future?

A nursing career offers flexibility, security and fulfillment

– By Barbara Gordon, ARNP, Helgemo & Liou Pediatrics –

Are you searching for a career with flexibility, good pay and job security that improves others’ lives?

Does it seem like the impossible dream? After more than four decades in the medical field, I can tell you that nursing offers all that and much more!

I was first inspired to become a nurse after losing my father to heart disease when I was eight years old. The variety and rewards I receive from caring for and educating others has kept my interest and passion alive even after more than 40 years.

Because people are always in need of healthcare, a nursing career also offers a measure of job security that is difficult to find in this economy. And state and federal government programs often provide tuition assistance to nursing students, helping to make attaining a degree financially feasible.

Here are some other attractive benefits of entering the nursing field:

  • Variety. Home health, pediatrics, wound care, obstetrics and hospice are just a few of the nursing specialties from which to choose. In addition, insurance companies are moving towards using more nurses to manage patient care. Traveling nurses can work on short-term assignments around the country including summer and sports camps. There are few professions that offer this kind of diversity.
  • Flexibility. Students can work toward a degree in stages. Start out as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). This doesn’t take a lot of time or money and is a great way to learn more about nursing and see if it’s a good fit for you. You can then gradually work toward becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and eventually a Registered Nurse (RN). Nursing also offers flexibility in the number of hours and shifts available. This is extremely beneficial when raising a young family.
  • Fulfillment. We all want to feel like we’re important. Nursing offers countless opportunities to provide emotional support and encouragement, as well as to elevate others’ quality of life. It becomes a lifestyle, as you often become a “consultant” for family and friends seeking comfort and advice.

Nursing can be a great career for both men and women, but it’s not for everyone. It’s a demanding, unglamorous profession that’s best suited for tenacious, creative problem-solvers  and team players who are flexible in their approach to interacting with various ages and personality types.

So, are you interested? Look into the programs offered through the Vo-Tech and/or local colleges. If you’re a high school student, find out if your school offers a program where you can “shadow” a professional. Or, contact a medical office directly and ask if you can observe for a day. You might just discover your life’s calling.

Helgemo and Liou Pediatrics
2040 C Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, Fl 33948
15121 Tamiami Trail, Suite A North Port, Fl 34287
941-629-6601
www.helgemopediatrics.com

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