Nursing is not a “one-and-done” type of career. It is an evolving and dynamic field of practice. Isn’t that part of what drew you to it in the first instance? You may have already earned your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), landed a job as a registered nurse, and started making a difference in several patients’ lives.
Now that you have gained valuable experience, you’re beginning to thirst for a higher level in your career. Although you care and improving the lives of others, you also care about your career satisfaction: Moving forward, gaining new skills, and increasing your earning potential.
Growth in the nursing career can be both thrilling and overwhelming, and it certainly takes courage to be determined to make a change. But where can you start from, and how can you go about it? In this article are ways you can achieve your nursing advancement goals.
6 Ways to Grow Your Nursing Career In 2022
Get a Nurse Mentor
Nurses go through some tricky situations that those in the average 9-5 world may not understand. However, finding someone you can always consult with, seek guidance from, and learn from, can prove invaluable in successfully navigating your career.
This can imply getting someone that will help you avoid burnout in your career and who will also help you discover new career options. A mentor may find it possible to connect you with their network or give a professional reference for your next job or graduate program applications.
If you are interested in getting a mentor, look into professional nursing organizations, formal mentoring programs run by your employer, or the professional nursing group for your state.
Peradventure, you run out of luck there, you could reach out to a nursing-focused social media group or ask your coworkers if they know anyone that might be interested in being a mentor.
Consider Earning a Specialization Certification
The nursing profession provides several specialization options and ways to capitalize on the aspect of your job you like the most. Perhaps, the key to taking your nursing career to the next step is to narrow your focus.
Narrowing your focus can be a perfect way to increase your level of expertise and also make the most of the aspect of your job you like the most. Getting certified in your desired specialty can help you grow in your nursing career in 2022, especially through a reputable organization.
Types of clinical specializations for practicing RNs include:
- Cardiac Surgery (CSC)
- Pediatric Critical Care (CCRN)
- Dialysis (CDN)
- Adult Critical Care (CCRN)
- Gastroenterology (CGRN)
- Progressive Care (PCCN)
There are other certifications geared toward future nurse managers, executives, and administrators, which are provided by the American College of Healthcare Executives Nurses and the American Organization for Nurse Leadership (AONL).
Join a Professional Nursing Association
There are numerous perks to joining a professional nursing association or organization. You will not only be joining the ranks of committed and passionate nursing professionals like you, but you will also have access to a new world of nursing connections through networking.
This connection can help you find a nurse mentor or an advanced practice nurse to shadow.
Furthermore, nurses in professional organizations may frequently receive special invitations or discounts on nursing or healthcare-related conventions or continuing education courses. In addition, getting assistance and resources on employment from these organizations can help to supplement your job search.
Considering the numerous national nursing organizations available, you will surely find one that is appropriate for you.
Follow Nursing Blogs
It does not often cross our minds, but there are thousands of resources from other nurses and nursing organizations which are available when you follow a nursing blog, and you navigate through it.
Sometimes, exhibiting leadership and industry awareness starts with being highly informed. By following nursing blogs, you can also understand more about how healthcare systems work, learn cutting-edge ideas in the field of nursing from seasoned experts, and even laugh at reading entertaining posts about the profession.
Experience Various Nursing Units
As much as you can, soak up nursing experiences by working in as many units as possible. This will enable you to acquire a taste of what you like and dislike.
Just like the famous saying, “experience is the best teacher”, gaining various experiences will make you much more marketable in the job market, as employers will always find you to be the best person that can attend to patients and find solutions to their issues.
Additionally, diverse experience makes you a more attractive candidate for management positions.
Look Into Continuing Nursing Education Opportunities
The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and staying updated is a critical part of any nursing career. Hence, continuing education that includes new techniques, advancements, and practices as a nurse is essential. While returning to school is a huge commitment, it can make a big difference in your nursing career trajectory.
Certain states have precise continuing education requirements for nurses upon license renewal, but it will be better if you do not limit yourself to the minimum.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA)
If these ways that have been mentioned above by which you can grow your nursing career in 2022 seem a little bit daunting, breathe! Growth in the nursing career is a process that can span throughout your career. Moreover, doing one extra thing or researching something new is a step toward growth. Just continue to strive to be the best nurse you can be with the tips given above.
Becoming a certified registered nurse anesthetist is a high rank in the nursing profession. CRNAs are advanced practice nurses who enjoy a high level of autonomy and professional respect. They are the sole anesthesia providers to patients in all practice settings and for all types of surgery or procedures.
Apart from being highly respected for their work, they are among the highest-paid nurses in 2022, with an average salary of $195,610.