What Makes You a Good Nurse?
A proficient nurse provides both physical and emotional care, acting as the patient’s advocate and implementing medical directives. The qualities defining a good nurse are compassion, empathy, and expertise, forming the core attributes that contribute to exemplary patient support.
Being a reliable RN requires patience and devotion. A nurse puts the patient’s needs before their own, ensuring their recovery. And when it comes to soft skills, a nurse must possess the following attributes:
- Empathy
- Communication
- Flexibility
- Critical-Thinking
- Problem-Solving
- Ethical Conduct
- Teamwork
- Emotional Intelligence
What Are the Subtle Signs You’d Be a Good Nurse?
If you find fulfillment in improving others’ well-being and have a genuine desire to care for them, you likely have the inherent qualities of a compassionate nurse. Additional indicators include a strong sense of empathy, philanthropic values, and a dedication to ongoing education.
Here’s a quick self-evaluation. Answer the following questions with yes and no to see if you’d make a good RN.
- Do I care about all humans regardless of external factors?
- Do I constantly feel like I have to contribute to something great?
- Am I okay with putting others’ needs before mine?
- Am I ready to dedicate most of my time to people?
- Am I aware of compassion fatigue and how energy-draining it might be?
If your answer to most of the above questions was a “yes,” you’re a proper nursing candidate. (Though, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’d make a good one.)
Should You Become a Nurse?
Nursing is among the top in-demand jobs in the US. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the country needs 203,200 nurses annually up until 2031. Nurses are also considered well-paid in most states, with an average pay of $38.74 per hour.
However, RN is considered one of the most physically and emotionally demanding jobs. Before making up your mind, consider the following aspects:
- Nurses must work in long (12-hour) shifts.
- They have to be on-call regardless of the weekday.
- They will have to rotate shifts.
- They might have to work in hazardous environments.
- Most nurses work for over 48 hours per week.
The Best Way to Find Out if You’d Make a Good Nurse
An ideal way to choose RN as your profession is by volunteering at a nursing house. This allows for hands-on experience and a risk-free evaluation of your skills. As for the good news, most volunteer positions at assisted living facilities do not require training. However, they all offer a first-hand glance at what a nurse’s job looks like.
Let an RN Qualification Quiz Help!
This self-assessment assesses your qualities and abilities as a nurse. By responding to the questions, you’ll uncover your strengths and areas for improvement, ultimately receiving a comprehensive evaluation of your potential as a registered nurse.
