10 Reasons Why YOU Should Become a Nurse

The speaker begins by discussing the financial benefits of becoming a nurse. They reference the Bureau of Labor Statistics, noting that nurses earn around the low $80,000 range on average in the United States. The speaker emphasizes that this is a good salary, especially considering that it can be obtained with just an associate's degree. They also mention that the average salary can vary depending on the region, with coastal areas generally offering higher pay than the Midwest or South. The speaker advises that while an associate's degree can provide a good income, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is recommended, though this point will be further discussed in another video.

The speaker highlights the high demand for nurses, citing statistics from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing that show 94% of BSN graduates and 92% of MSN graduates find employment within six months of graduating. This high employment rate assures prospective nurses that they are likely to find a job after obtaining their degree. The speaker reinforces the security and confidence that comes with choosing a nursing career due to its high demand and job availability.

The speaker discusses the core of nursing, which is the opportunity to make a significant impact on people's lives. They reflect on their own career and the countless instances where they were able to comfort, reassure, educate, and support patients and their families during challenging times. The speaker also mentions the joy of celebrating with patients during their best times, emphasizing the unique and fulfilling role nurses play in the lives of those they care for.

The speaker explains that one of the reasons many choose nursing is the opportunity to travel. Nursing is in high demand globally, making it easier for nurses to move and work in different locations. The speaker specifically mentions travel nursing, where experienced nurses can work with travel agencies to find short-term contracts (typically 8-16 weeks) in various hospitals across the country or even internationally. This allows nurses to combine their love for their profession with the chance to explore new places and cultures while earning a living.

The speaker emphasizes the wide range of specialization options available to nurses, which is one of the reasons nursing is an attractive profession. With a nursing degree, one can work in various areas such as ICU, ER, OB, pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health. The speaker also mentions less patient-facing roles like case management, utilization review, and legal nurse consulting. They express amazement at the variety of nursing specialties and the flexibility it offers for nurses to pursue their interests and switch paths if desired.

The speaker discusses the flexibility of schedules that nursing offers, which is another reason why many choose this profession. Depending on one's life circumstances, nurses can choose from various shift lengths and patterns, such as 12-hour shifts, part-time work, or even work-from-home opportunities. The speaker notes that while some specialties may require more rigid schedules, there are numerous options available to accommodate different lifestyle needs and preferences.

The speaker addresses the high job satisfaction that many nurses experience, despite reports of high burnout rates. They note that many long-term nurses find great satisfaction in their work, especially once they find a role that aligns with their personal lives and personalities. The speaker encourages nurses to explore different areas within nursing to find their 'sweet spot' and achieve a fulfilling career.

The speaker talks about the respect and recognition that the nursing profession commands, as it is often ranked highly in terms of trustworthiness. They acknowledge that while some facilities may offer poor benefits, there are opportunities to find nursing jobs with better benefits packages that align with individual preferences. The speaker suggests that the key is to find a job that provides the valued benefits, whether it's a pension, 401k, good insurance, or generous time off.

The speaker discusses the financial aid opportunities available for nursing students, emphasizing that the high value and demand for nurses often lead to tuition assistance or reimbursement programs. They mention various schemes where hospitals or healthcare systems may pay towards a nurse's education in return for a commitment to work at their facility for a certain period. The speaker encourages those interested in nursing to explore these options to minimize student loan debt and secure financial support during their education.