Job security, there will always be a need for nurses
Nurses make a real difference
In people's lives, for society, healthcare in general
Competitive pay and starting salary
Promoting diversity, representation in the workforce
Fulfilling job
One of the most trusted professions
Many opportunities for growth
Specializing (hospice, emergency room, pediatrics, labor and delivery, etc)
Easily advance your career
Advanced degrees
Certificates (Wound nurse, operating room nurse, etc)
Can enter the job workforce quickly, especially if pursuing an associate's degree
Flexibility in schedule
many hospital nurses work three-12 hour shifts a week
"If you have a passion for helping others, a strong desire to make a difference in people’s lives, and a knack for science and critical thinking, becoming a registered nurse can be a fulfilling career choice." (betternurse.org)
"Nursing is not for everyone, and it requires a significant commitment of time and energy to complete the necessary education and training." (betternurse.org)
It's crucial that we encourage diverse student to become nurses to address the issue of lack of diversity in the nursing profession by promoting and empowering people of color, men, and English language learners to become nurses.
In Washington State, 77% of registered nurses are White Caucasian while the state’s general population is 64% White Caucasian
Statistics from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing:
The federal government projects that more than 203,000 new registered nurse positions will be created each year from 2021-2031
From 2020 to 2022, the percentage of men in nursing increased from 9.4% to 11.2%
The median age of RNs is 46 years. More than one-quarter of registered nurses report that they plan to leave nursing or retire over the next five years.
Employers are expressing a strong preference for new nurses with baccalaureate preparation. Findings from AACN latest survey on the Employment of New Nurse Graduates show that nearly 28% of employers require new hires to have a bachelor’s degree while 72% strongly prefer baccalaureate-prepared nurses.
"Nurses usually enjoy working with and helping people. They regularly communicate with patients and are responsible for recording a patient’s medical symptoms and history. A nurse must also collaborate with a team of health care professionals to create an informed patient care plan. Nurses monitor a patient’s health, administer treatments and medications, operate medical equipment, perform diagnostic tests, educate and assist patients about managing illnesses, and provide care while supporting a patient’s dignity."
Guide them on the right education pathway. Discuss the difference between ADN and BSN programs.
Encourage exploration of the career through shadowing, guest speakers, or summer programs.
Highlight importance of strong academic performance in middle and high school (STEM, biology, anatomy, chemistry, and/or health science pathway courses your high school provides)
Provide Scholarship and Financial Aid Resources
Assist with the college admissions process for Nursing School
Understand how nursing school requirements (how SAT scores, GPA, pre-requisite courses, volunteer experience, letters of recommendation) can help admissions decisions.