Becoming a registered nurse is certainly one of the most rewarding jobs you can undertake. ou can make a real difference in people’s lives by completing a Nursing Diploma. Providing expert care when people are at their most vulnerable is an extremely gratifying job. You can enjoy professional respect, as well as the opportunity to advance your career. While nursing is a noble and profoundly important field to get into, it’s not for everyone. Read on for five essential personal qualities that help you determine if you have what it takes to become a nurse.
Empathy
Number one and perhaps the most important of all is empathy. As a nurse, you need to be able to understand someone’s emotional responses and try to feel what they are feeling. This will not only ensure you give each patient the care they deserve but will keep you motivated on those harder days. Don’t worry if you’re thinking, “I’m not empathetic enough”. Empathy is a skill that can be learned, so when you meet anyone, anywhere – try to see things from their perspective through the lens of the life they lead, and you’ll be able to build up your empathy in no time.
Willingness to learn
Whether you’re already working as a registered nurse or considering it as a career, you need a willingness to learn. Nurses’ learning is never over, no matter what stage they’re in their career. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and you will need to keep learning and practicing in order to keep up. Many registered nurses chose an online RN to BSN program to continue their healthcare education while being able to learn on the job at the same time.
Self-care
This may not seem like a necessary quality, but rest assured, a good nurse must understand the importance of self-care. Nursing can be an incredibly challenging job. Some days will prove mentally and physically challenging, and to ensure you come to work every day with a good mindset and ready to help those who need you, you must practice self-care. If this is a challenge for you, start small with ten minutes a day to do something that fills your cup.
Good communication
Nurses need to be great communicators. During the day, nurses will need to liaise with patients, doctors, family, specialists, and whoever else needs an ear at any given time. It is of the utmost importance as a nurse you can listen considerately while retaining the important information.
Quick thinking
Lastly, a great nurse needs to be a quick thinker. They need to be able to understand their patient’s feelings and make well-considered critical decisions at a moment’s notice. This is because nursing can be a very autonomous role, and your decisions alone have a great impact on your patients.
So, does this sound like you? Then you may be the perfect fit for a career in nursing or to advance your career in the field. However, don’t worry if any of these characteristics don’t apply to you. These five essential personal qualities to help you excel can be learned and nurtured with time.