Why There’s Never Been a Better Time to Switch to a Nursing Career

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Nurses play a vital role in healthcare, and if you have a compassionate nature and can work in a high-pressured environment, then nursing may be a great career for you. Many people who work as nurses didn't go straight from high school to nursing school, they often took a different career path and gained life experience first. If you are thinking of switching careers, either because of a downturn in your industry or needing a new challenge, here are some of the reasons why this is a great time to switch to nursing.

Nursing is a Stable Career During a Recession

Due to Covid-19 and other factors, the USA is likely to go into a recession, with many industries facing job cuts as people tighten their belts. This could affect people who work in all sorts of careers, from travel to real estate, so you may well be looking for a career that'll weather any economic storm. While studying to be a nurse doesn't guarantee you a job, even in the depths of a recession people will need healthcare, so it's one of the more stable careers you could choose.

In an Age of Automation, Nursing Focuses on People

Another reason why people are losing their jobs at the moment is automation. A lot of jobs - from touchscreens replacing receptionists to robots replacing factory workers, and even professional careers - can be at risk of automation. Luckily, healthcare jobs are the least likely to be automated; in fact, there's a less than 0.4% chance that you'll be treated by a robot nurse any time soon, making it a futureproof career.

You Can Study Online

Because nursing is often a second career, many people who study to become one will already have financial and family commitments, which can make studying more of a challenge. Luckily, there are options such as studying online, which are more flexible for busy lifestyles. For instance, you can study a BSN online, which will prepare you for your exam to become a registered nurse, allowing you to get started on this career path.

Nursing is a career where you never stop learning, so if you decide to take your career further, there are other courses you can do online too. Baylor University offers online DNP programs, which allow registered nurses (RNs) to develop their careers, specializing in areas from midwifery to family nursing.

Nursing is a Flexible Career

Nursing can be a good career choice for those with families because:

-Nursing jobs can be found pretty much anywhere. You aren't tied to the city with a long commute

-Nursing is a 24/7 career, so you can find a job that fits in with family. Many nurses work three long shifts a week, meaning they get more time with loved ones

-If you want to work part time, there are often options to do so, and if you work as a school nurse, you can work during term times only

Many people who retrain as a nurse will do so even after having a family. While this kind of career can be tough, there's often room for flexibility and family life.

Nursing Can Be a Well-Paid Profession

Nursing is not a career to go into if you want to get rich, but that said, the salary and benefits can be good. Nursing salaries can vary hugely, depending on the state, level of education and specialism, but the average RN salary can range from $47k - $88k, which is higher than the USA's average national salary. California offers the highest average wage, with nurses earning six figures, although this is offset by the high cost of living in the area.

As you develop in your nursing career, taking additional qualifications such as a DNP will allow you to get the higher paid jobs. Becoming a nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, neonatal intensive care nurse or training for other specialisms will help you achieve the higher salaries.

It's Challenging, But Rewarding

Not everyone can become a nurse. It takes a certain type of person who wants to be challenged every day of their career. Nursing can be both physically and mentally challenging, but the good thing is that the days go by quickly and you aren't stuck behind a desk. A recent survey of RNs showed that the majority of nurses were happy with their career choice, meaning job satisfaction levels were higher than the general population.  

There's Currently a Shortage of Nurses

The USA is currently facing a shortage of nurses unless new recruits can be found. The country's population is aging as the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age, which means many industries related to healthcare are going to grow.

The USA isn't the only country struggling to recruit nurses. From the UK to Australia, many countries are facing a shortage and are trying to recruit them from abroad. If you qualify as a nurse, you may be able to emigrate to different countries in the future, allowing you to see more of the world as part of your career. While your American qualifications may not be recognized overseas, you can usually take an exam or short course to get you ready to practice in your host country.

You Can Make a Difference Every Day

Not many people can say that their jobs make a difference, but nurses help to save lives every day. If you've always wanted a job that you know will make a positive impact on the world, then there are few careers that compare to nursing.

If you're wondering what to do after high school, or are looking to take your career in a different direction, why not consider nursing? For the reasons above, and more, there has never been a better time to take this interesting and challenging career path, and people from all walks of life can get into the field. While it requires a degree, options such as studying online have made it more accessible and it means it's easier to pursue as a second career.