Every job has its own dignity and purpose. I believe being a nurse is one of the most inspiring jobs ever created. I have been a nurse now a little over 5 years now and have been practicing my profession as a nurse in various fields such as in clinic, school, hospital, EMS and in public health. Each nursing field has its own unique work environment but regardless of the setting, it is generally fulfilling. Being a nurse isn’t easy because of its vast and intricate tasks but for sure it brings fulfillment especially on the emotional variety. And based on my experience, here are some of those that I would like to share.
Touching and saving lives. On a daily basis, nurses do so much for so many. Most nurses will do everything in their power to be of service to their patients in many means from working for long hours or being out in the field trekking through mountains. Nurses are often the first line who meets and comforts the patients including their families and educates the patients about the next steps to better health and recovery. Bringing hope and cheer to people in times of crisis is not something that you can achieve in just about any career. The job may be stressful, physically and emotionally draining. I couldn’t possibly tell how much sacrifices we nurses have to endure. But nothing can beat the amount of fulfillment a nurse can get after a day of making difference in the lives of others.
Another is having the opportunity to save someone’s life. Whether it’s performing CPR during an emergency or asking a patient just the right question that unravels a critical diagnosis, there is nothing in the world like saving lives. These are rare moments that would stay to a nurse for a lifetime.
Opportunities for leadership. Most of my nursing career was focused in public health and it involves not only caring a single client but by extending thru the whole family and the community. As an advocate of health, we get to influence our clients towards improving their health status. We play the role of being a leader, an educator, a change agent. We are afforded the ability to empower the community to enhance their lives and enhance wellness through education and health teachings.
Personal growth. What I really love about being a nurse is the unlimited opportunity of personal growth. The nursing profession is not about just helping people, but it also enriches one’s personal growth. There’s a quote that says “When you’re a nurse you know that every day you will touch a life or a life will touch yours”. The experiences in making an impact on people’s lives are so intense that you are changed by them. It’s something that you become and that becomes you. The job has not only inspired me about compassion, respect and humanity but also to be appreciative of how precious of life is, to live well and be grateful.
Finding great friendship. In any field, you tend to form a strong bond with your workmates when you are working long hours in a challenging environment. Nursing in particular is a great opportunity to meet people who have the same passion like you. When you work in a challenging environment with someone and you share the same values, it adds an extra dimension to the friendship. I always enjoyed the camaraderie with my colleagues. Most of my best friends are nurses too whom I’ve met in school and in work.
The magical feeling of being thanked. “Thank you” — what magical words! Who wouldn’t enjoy the jolt of energy and enthusiasm after being acknowledged for your efforts? It’s very emotionally rewarding for us nurses when patients and their families express their appreciation for what we do. There are also times that we would run into them and it’s always a gratifying feeling for them to remember you after you have taken care of them. They don’t seem to be aware of this, but it gives us a “mini heart attack” of happiness and drive. These two magical words are just enough to get us through all our workloads.
Becoming a nurse is a job that you can always feel good about knowing that you will make a positive contribution to humanity. The rewards of being a nurse are countless. We are rewarded every single day, in so many ways that’s why I love what I do. Nursing is not just a career— it’s a calling and I am so blessed to have a job that is so intrinsically rewarding.
By: Shyragail L. Cariño
