For women seeking a meaningful career path that allows them to make a positive impact on people's lives, nursing offers an exceptional opportunity. 2 This demanding yet rewarding profession puts female nurses at the forefront of patient care, providing them with a versatile skill set applicable in various healthcare settings. 2
Pursuing a nursing career opens doors to diverse roles within hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical facilities. 2 Whether providing bedside care, administering treatments, or educating patients and their families, female nurses play a crucial role in improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities. 2 This article delves into how nursing empowers women, offering a fulfilling and respected career choice that aligns with their compassionate nature and desire to make a real difference.
Earn a Versatile Degree
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree opens up a world of opportunities for women in the nursing profession. 5 6 With a BSN, nurses gain access to a broader range of career paths and specialized roles within the healthcare industry. Here are some key advantages of pursuing a versatile BSN degree:
Expanded Career Prospects
BSN-holders can qualify to work at Magnet hospitals and earn a graduate degree in nursing faster. 5 They may also qualify for more job opportunities in niche nursing fields because of their expanded coursework. 5 Many acute care hospitals and public health agencies only hire BSN nurses. 5
Specialized Nursing Roles
The benefits of a BSN can extend to the nursing specialties that may be available. 6 There is a broad range of nursing specialties available to RNs with a BSN, including:
Oncology
Dialysis
Pediatrics
Critical care
Mental health
Labor and delivery
With a BSN, women can confidently pursue their nursing specialty of choice. 6
Advanced Education Opportunities
If you wish to become a nurse practitioner, a certified registered nurse anesthetist, a nurse educator, or a researcher, you must receive a bachelor's degree or complete BSN coursework before starting a graduate program. 5
Travel Nursing
If you want to travel within the U.S. or internationally, earning your BSN is ideal for these registered nursing jobs. 6 Travel nursing agencies often prefer nurses with a BSN, and you will have more opportunities for higher-paying travel jobs. 6 Furthermore, many countries worldwide are pushing for higher-educated nurses, requiring a bachelor's degree, making a BSN essential for international nursing opportunities. 6
By earning a versatile BSN degree, women can unlock a diverse array of nursing careers, specializations, and advanced educational pathways, empowering them to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field.
Make a Real Difference to People's Lives
Nurses play a pivotal role in providing exceptional patient care and making a real difference in people's lives. Their dedication and compassion extend far beyond administering medical treatments. 15 16
Promoting Health Equity and Overcoming Barriers
Nurses can be key contributors to making substantial progress toward health care equity in the United States by taking on expanded roles, working in new settings in innovative ways, and partnering with communities and other sectors. 15 They can strengthen their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by leading large-scale efforts to dismantle systemic contributors to inequality and create new norms and competencies within health care. 15
Nurses can help overcome barriers to quality care, including structural inequities and implicit bias, through care management, person-centered care, and cultural humility. 15 Care management—a set of activities designed to "enhance coordination of care, eliminate duplication of services, reduce the need for expensive medical services, and increase patient engagement in self-care"—helps ensure seamless care. 15 Nurses are vital to carrying out these functions of care management, including providing care coordination, developing care plans based on a person's needs and preferences, educating people and families within care settings and during discharge, and facilitating continuity of care for people. 15
Advocating for Patients
Nurses have delivered a high standard of exceptional care to the public for decades, earning professional respect within the medical community through lobbying, organizing, and advancing the profession academically. 16 The time nurses spend with patients also gives them unique insights into their patients' wants and needs, behaviors, health habits, and concerns, thus making them important advocates in patient care. 16 The American Nurses Association lists advocacy as a "pillar of nursing" and considers it one of the most significant reasons why nurses are important in healthcare. 16
Patient advocacy might also mean helping coordinate a patient's care with another provider's office or ensuring that a patient has provided informed consent before undergoing a procedure. 16 Ultimately, this role is one of the most visible examples of the value of nurses from the patient's perspective. 16
Nurses devote much of their time and energy to educating patients, which is crucial in addressing low health literacy among healthcare populations. 16 This could mean helping them understand a treatment or procedure, describing medications and side effects details, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition and good hygiene, or sharing how a clinic operates. 16
Providing Patient-Centered Care
Nurses play a crucial role in affecting positive patient outcomes by influencing whether a patient feels respected and cared for during treatment. 11 They excel in practicing patient empathy and attending to patients' physical needs without compromising emotional support. 11
Keeping patients' values, needs, and preferences top of mind throughout treatment is essential. 11 Patients are also encouraged to take proactive measures in managing their health. Patient-centered care that promotes independence and ongoing engagement correlates to improved health outcomes. 11
Treating patients and their family members or support system as partners throughout the healing process is vital. 11 Discussing different treatment options and encouraging patients to pursue what is right for them makes them feel seen and heard, leading to increased satisfaction with their care. 11
Ensuring access to care is another crucial aspect. 11 For some patients, this may mean scheduling care outside of regular working hours, while for others, it may require using a medical interpreter to ensure clear communication. 11 Nurses can act as patient navigators, assisting with health insurance, appointment scheduling, and medical instructions. 11
Besides physical discomfort, patients must also manage emotional stress and fears regarding treatment. 11 Nurses can ease these burdens by practicing compassion and acceptance, creating a calming, confidential environment where patients can share their concerns without judgment or bias. 11 When patients feel supported and involved, they may be more optimistic about their treatment, which can lead to improved health care outcomes. 11
Clear communication helps patients feel understood and valued. 11 Reliable one-on-one time with their nursing team helps promote patient trust and deepens their understanding of the process. 11 To build a strong rapport with patients, nurses should allow patients to speak without feeling rushed or ignored, express compassion through verbal and nonverbal cues, ask open-ended questions, and paraphrase in a way that demonstrates interest and respect. 11
Offering education and counseling to patients at an individual or community level can help nurses reduce the incidence of avoidable health issues. 11 These resources include free health screenings, vaccinations, and educational materials to promote a healthy lifestyle. 11 Preventative measures lay the groundwork for better patient outcomes. 11
A nurse's primary goal is to provide safe, effective, quality care to ensure positive patient outcomes. 11 By implementing patient-centered practices, nurses can make a significant difference in individuals' lives while advancing their professional careers. 11
Providing Compassionate Care
Nurses exemplify kindness, compassion, and caring for others through their actions, often exceeding the call of duty. 13 During the coronavirus crisis, nurses were the first line of defense in clinics against the ravages of COVID-19, with many going above and beyond their arduous duties. 13
Nurses provide an understanding ear and continuous support to patients, filling in for their families. 13 They deliver food and essential supplies to homebound patients, ensuring their well-being. 13 Nurses guide patients through daily routines and create memorable moments, such as arranging therapeutic activities or special events. 13
In some cases, nurses have even adopted patients' children when they could not find suitable caregivers, ensuring the children's well-being and providing them with a loving home. 13 14 Nurses surprise cancer patients with romantic dinners with their significant others, bringing joy and comfort during difficult times. 13
Nurses have been known to go above and beyond, even walking miles in harsh weather conditions to reach their patients at nursing homes when no other staff could make it. 13 They have organized surprise dances and celebrations for patients, creating cherished memories. 13
These inspiring stories highlight the vital role nurses play in patient care, both inside and outside the wards. 14 Even when "just doing their jobs," nurses make a tremendous difference in their patients' lives through their compassion, dedication, and selfless acts of kindness. 14
Choose to Study Online
Pursuing a nursing degree online offers a flexible and convenient pathway for women to enter this rewarding profession. 19 Online programs provide the same accredited curriculum as traditional on-campus programs, allowing students to earn their nursing degrees while balancing other commitments. 19 21
Accredited Online Nursing Programs
Reputable institutions offer a range of accredited online nursing degrees, including:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This undergraduate program typically takes three to four years to complete and equips graduates for various nursing roles in healthcare settings such as long-term care, critical care, school nursing, home health, and community health nursing. 19
RN-to-BSN Program: For registered nurses with an associate's degree, this program allows them to advance their education to the bachelor's level in less than two years. 19
Master's in Nursing (MSN): Students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees can pursue a career in healthcare through the MSN program, which can be completed in as little as 22 months. 19
To find accredited online nursing programs, prospective students should contact reputable institutions or conduct thorough research to ensure the program's legitimacy and quality. 19
Cost-Effective Education
Online nursing programs can be more cost-effective than traditional on-campus programs. 19 Without the overhead expenses associated with physical campuses, such as building maintenance, utilities, and janitorial services, online programs often have lower tuition fees. 19 Additionally, students can save on transportation costs, parking fees, and other expenses related to commuting to campus. 19
Flexible Learning Environment
One of the primary advantages of online nursing education is its flexibility. 19 20 While some live sessions or immersions may be required, most coursework, assignments, and lectures can be completed at the student's convenience, making it easier to balance studies with work, family, and other personal commitments. 19 20
Convenient Access to Resources
Online learning platforms provide students with 24/7 access to course materials, lectures, assignments, and other resources. 19 Everything is digitally stored and accessible, eliminating the need to carry physical textbooks or worry about misplacing important documents. 19
Personalized Instruction
Online nursing programs often facilitate increased one-on-one interaction with instructors and professors. 19 Through email, chat, and video conferencing, students can easily collaborate with their teachers and seek clarification on challenging concepts, fostering a more personalized learning experience. 19
Financial Aid Opportunities
Like traditional on-campus students, online nursing students are eligible for various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. 19 Before applying, prospective students should reach out to the financial aid department of their intended institution to explore all available assistance opportunities. 19
Self-Discipline and Time Management
Successful online learning requires self-discipline and effective time management skills. 19 20 Without the structure of a physical classroom setting, students must take responsibility for adhering to their study schedules, completing assignments on time, and staying motivated throughout the program. 19 20 These skills are invaluable for future nursing careers, where time management and self-discipline are crucial. 19
Personalized Learning Pace
Online nursing programs allow students to learn at their own pace. 19 If a concept requires additional review or clarification, students can pause lectures, rewind videos, or revisit materials as needed, ensuring a thorough understanding of the subject matter. 19
Technological Proficiency
Pursuing an online nursing degree enhances students' technological proficiency, a valuable asset in the modern healthcare industry. 19 Online learning platforms expose students to various collaboration and communication tools, such as Dropbox, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Microsoft Office, Skype, and Basecamp, preparing them for the increasing use of remote communication in healthcare settings. 19
Equivalent Nursing Licensure
Regardless of the educational pathway chosen, all nursing students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed registered nurses. 19 Online nursing programs provide the same comprehensive education as traditional programs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the licensing exam and their future nursing careers. 19
By choosing to study online, women can pursue a fulfilling nursing career while enjoying the flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness of this educational approach. 19 21 With accredited programs, personalized instruction, and the opportunity to develop essential skills, online nursing education empowers women to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field.
There Are Scholarship Programs Available
Eligible nursing students can apply to the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program. 2 If accepted, they receive tuition, fees, and other educational costs covered, along with a monthly stipend. In return, after graduating, they work at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses (critical shortage facility). 2
To be eligible for the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, applicants must: 2
Be a U.S. citizen (born or naturalized), a national, or a lawful permanent resident
Be an accepted or enrolled student in a nursing degree program at a United States accredited school of nursing
Begin classes no later than September 30
Have no federal judgment liens
Have no existing service commitment
Not be overdue on a federal debt
If awarded, recipients receive a monthly stipend, and the program covers their: 2
Critical Shortage Facilities
A critical shortage facility is a public or private health care facility located in, designated as, or serving a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). 2 A HPSA is an area lacking enough primary care or mental health professionals. 2
Many Americans go without necessary health care, including checkups, preventive screenings, and vaccines, due to a shortage of health care workers in their communities. 2 The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program helps address these issues by increasing the nursing workforce in underserved areas. 2
General Financial Aid
General financial aid is an option for both men and women who demonstrate sufficient need. 23 The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be filled out as soon as possible at the beginning of the calendar year preceding the expected date of entry into a program of study. 23
Nursing-Specific Scholarships
Due to the high demand for nursing professionals and the need to attract more students to nursing degrees, the government established a scholarship program that assists students with great financial need in financing their studies. 23 The award comes with a condition of providing two years of nursing service in a high-need location. 23
Each college and university has its own scholarship department, and women interested in studying nursing should apply through that department. 23 Details and applications are often available online and should be explored early in the spring for the best opportunity at receiving aid. 23 There are opportunities for need-based scholarships, merit-based scholarships, and service-based scholarships, with availability varying by institution. 23
Many communities offer additional scholarships available to students pursuing various career paths, and female nursing students should investigate these avenues for augmenting their finances for school. 23
Many state entities sponsor scholarships that apply either to general in-state studies at higher institutions or to nursing-specific pursuits that will be in-state. 23 Much of the need for nurses demands that states and organizations invest in the training of those who will remain to serve their specific states. 23 In other cases, the purpose of in-state scholarship programs is to interest quality students in studying in-state. 23
Public and Private Scholarships
Thankfully, both public and private organizations offer scholarships to nursing students. 24 27 These awards are intended to help students meet their financial obligations so they can graduate and make important contributions to the field. 24 27 Whether a high school senior planning for freshman year or a working professional seeking a new career direction, scholarships can be a valuable tool for helping pay for the education needed to succeed. 24 27
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Foundation offers various scholarships for nursing students, including: 28
Scrubin Uniforms - AACN Scholarship: Supports nursing students in baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral programs at AACN member schools with a formal affiliation agreement with Scrubin Uniforms. 28
NurseThink® - AACN Scholarship: Supports students enrolled in master's and doctoral nursing programs at AACN member institutions who have a desire to become future nurse faculty. Provides $5,000 scholarship awards twice a year through 2026. 28
Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurses Leader Scholarship: Funded by Liaison International, AACN's partner in NursingCAS, this scholarship and leadership development program was created in honor of AACN's President and CEO Dr. Deborah Trautman. 28
COVID-19 Student Support Fund: Provides one-time grants to nursing students enrolled in AACN member schools who need financial support to complete their nursing programs and/or meet life expenses. 28
Uniform Advantage/GNSA Scholarship: Offered by Uniform Advantage, a leading retailer of scrubs and medical uniforms, for nursing students enrolled in master's and doctoral programs who are committed to making a positive impact on the nation's health and health care. 28
Hurst Review/AACN Nursing Scholarship: Recognizes and rewards entry-level nursing students for outstanding academic performance. 28
QGenda/AACN Scholarship: Offered by QGenda, a leader in healthcare workforce management solutions, for students in undergraduate and graduate nursing programs at AACN member schools. Awards $5,000 scholarships three times per year. 28
The AACN also provides resources for scholarship search engines and lists of scholarships for undergraduates, undergraduates and graduate students, and graduate students. 28
Progress Through the Ranks at Your Own Speed
Nursing is a dynamic, rewarding profession with plenty of room for personal and professional growth. 30 The demand for nurses is high and projected to grow as the baby boomer generation ages, promising excellent job security and earning potential. 30 No matter what nursing career you choose, your first step is to earn a post-secondary degree. 30
Entry-Level Nursing Degrees
The main options to consider on your path to becoming a nurse are:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Earning an ADN usually takes two to three years. Like a four-year degree, an ADN prepares you to become a Registered Nurse (RN). 30 Depending on the nursing career pathway you want to pursue, you may need to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree later. However, the advantage of an ADN compared to a nursing diploma is that your credits may transfer to your BSN program, making it easier and cheaper to continue your education down the road. 30
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Compared to other ways to become an entry-level RN, a BSN takes more time and may be more expensive. It usually takes about four years to get a BSN, but having one can make it possible to pursue other nursing career paths that aren't possible with a diploma or ADN alone. 30 For that reason, a BSN is an investment that offers greater earning potential and more opportunities for professional growth throughout your career. 30
Advancing Your Nursing Career
Many nurses are content working as RNs or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). But if you're interested in a nursing specialty or becoming a certified nurse practitioner, you have some terrific options. 30 Some specialties require additional training or certifications from bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). 30
Some specialties require post-graduate degrees, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). 30 Most MSN and DNP programs require a bachelor's degree before applying. If you start out with a diploma or an associate degree, you'll need to finish your BSN before pursuing nursing career pathways that require advanced degrees. 30 Although it takes extra time and expense to get a post-graduate degree, nurses who obtain an advanced specialization have more options for career development and are among the top earners in the nursing profession. 30
Nursing Certifications
Nurses who are certified demonstrate a personal responsibility to their education, and in turn, patient care and outcomes, and specialty certification sends a message of commitment to a current or potential employer. 32 The personal benefits include feeling a sense of accomplishment and empowerment, plus validation of knowledge that can improve your confidence. For some, certification may also impact your salary and career advancement. 32
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Deciding to go back to school can be a difficult decision. Whether you are looking at RN-to-BSN programs, or considering an advanced nursing degree, there are many factors to consider, including timing, money, availability, and program options. 32 When you are ready to take this next step, know that not only will you benefit yourself professionally, but you also will be elevating the nursing community. 32
Finally, don't be afraid to put yourself out there and take risks. Seek out learning opportunities, whether it's caring for a complex patient or learning a new technology. 32 As nurses, we must be lifelong learners; healthcare is an ever-changing field, and staying on top of the latest evidence is essential. 32
Consider taking on new roles if you haven't already – become a preceptor to a student, new nurse, or new-to-your-unit nurse; accept the charge nurse role; join or lead a working group or committee; and take advantage of opportunities to advance on the clinical ladder, if that is an option. 32 You can start small by talking with or shadowing someone in a different role. 32
Leadership Opportunities
Nursing isn't a "one-and-done" type of career. Nursing is an evolving, ever-changing field of practice. That's part of what drew you to it in the first place. 29
Nurses with baccalaureate education often step into leadership positions early in their career. 29 There are many different advancement opportunities for you based on what you're looking for. Whether you want to narrow in on a specific clinical component with a specialty role or move away from clinical responsibilities and into the administrator or educator realm, there are ways you can achieve the change you're seeking. 29
Regardless of which route you take, there is a rewarding opportunity for you to answer the call to advance your nursing career. "We need nurses who can rise to the occasion and lead nurses, interprofessional teams, hospitals, universities, and other healthcare organizations," Hawkins urges. 29
Seeking out advanced certifications can build the depth of expertise and expand a nurse's ability to lead others within that specialty area. 29 Joining a professional nursing organization can allow you to make new connections outside of your current colleagues and former nursing school contacts. These are the types of contacts that could help you find an advanced practice nurse to shadow or help you meet a nursing mentor. 29
If you're committed to expanding your impact by pursuing a more advanced nursing career, there are a few options worth considering:
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): The MSN is a multifaceted degree that can prepare nurses for many different specialty positions. Most programs encompass different tracks to train future Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), nurse educators, or nurse administrators. 29
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): The DNP is a terminal degree that prepares nurses to practice at the highest levels of clinical expertise. These graduates are often viewed as leaders in planning and implementing strategies to improve patient health holistically. 29
Conclusion
The nursing profession offers women a fulfilling and rewarding career path that empowers them to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. From earning a versatile BSN degree to pursuing advanced nursing roles and specializations, the opportunities for personal and professional growth are vast. Nurses play a crucial role in promoting health equity, advocating for patients, and providing compassionate, patient-centered care. With the option to study online, women can balance their education with other commitments while gaining the necessary skills to excel in this noble profession.
Ultimately, a career in nursing allows women to combine their compassionate nature with a diverse range of roles and specialties, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Whether working at the bedside, in leadership positions, or advancing healthcare through research and education, nurses are at the forefront of shaping a better future for healthcare. By choosing nursing, women can embark on a rewarding journey that aligns with their values and aspirations.
FAQs
How do nurses contribute to empowering women?
Nurses play a crucial role in empowering women by providing essential information and education on health issues, preventive measures, and self-care. They equip women with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their health care. Additionally, nurses and midwives provide vital services such as prenatal care, childbirth education, and breastfeeding support, further enhancing women's autonomy and empowerment.
What makes nursing a fulfilling career choice?
Nursing is considered a fulfilling career due to the profound sense of purpose it offers. Nurses experience fulfillment from knowing that their efforts significantly impact patients' lives. The personal connections with patients and witnessing their health improvements contribute to a rewarding and meaningful career.
What are effective ways to empower the nursing profession?
Empowering the nursing profession involves several key strategies. It is important to clearly define autonomy and enhance competence in practice. Encouraging participation from nurses at all experience levels and ensuring that nursing leadership is visible and accessible are also critical. These steps help nursing leaders emerge and reach their full potential, fostering a supportive and empowering environment.
Why is empowerment crucial in nursing?
Empowerment in nursing is essential as it leads to increased self-control, job satisfaction, and improved quality of patient care. Empowered nurses are confident, capable of making decisions in critical situations, and generally exhibit higher job satisfaction. Conversely, nurses who feel powerless may experience depression, low self-esteem, and a diminished ability to make crucial decisions, negatively affecting patient care.
References
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