Kangan Institute Blog

How to Start your Career in Nursing

There has never been a better time to consider a career in nursing. Very few professions offer the opportunities, challenges and rewards available in this exciting field. A position in nursing means no two days are ever the same. Each day that passes presents the opportunity to develop new skills, take on extra responsibilities and help build your career.

Working in the healthcare environment is more than a job - it is a career, and you can make a difference all day, every day. A job in nursing is exciting, stimulating and diverse offering a variety of environments and various areas in which you can specialise in.

What kind of skills does a career in nursing require?

  • Compassion, patience, organised and detail orientated
  • The ability to function in high stress situations and willing to constantly learn as the medical sector continues to evolve
  • Good critical thinking skills and quick to think on their feet
  • An interest in science and math
  • The ability to work well with others and work long shifts, usually on their feet

There are so many available options once you have decided on a position in nursing. So, if you are considering a career in nursing, then here are tips for how to get started and see what this exciting job opportunity has to offer.

Research How To Become A Nurse In Your State

Admission requirements to becoming certified in a Diploma of Nursing (HLT54115) are set by the individual course providers. The certification takes one year to two years to complete and there is usually the option to study either full time or part time depending on the institute you enrol with.

The Diploma of Nursing is offered at a number of Registered Training Organisations such as TAFE where you can enrol in TAFE courses that can be studied in a variety of locations across your state. Ensure the program you choose is approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.

Get Certified

You will not be able to become an enrolled nurse without certification. If you are thinking about becoming a nurse consider getting certified with a Diploma of Nursing (HLT54115) at Kangan Institute. As an Enrolled Nurse, your duties will range from providing emotional and physical care, to more complex duties such as the administration of medications.

You will also have the opportunity to perform these duties in various environments within a range of different clinical specialities including, medical, surgical, mental health, operating theatres, emergency, maternity and rehabilitation. All nursing courses include theory and mandatory, unpaid clinical practice components where you will have the chance to work alongside experienced nurses in the healthcare sector.

A Balanced Work Life Opportunity

Everyone is aware it is essential to achieve a good work-life balance. Without it, you risk long term negative effects on your physical and mental health, your relationships and your work performance. Very few professions can offer the diversity of nursing that allows you to match your career with your lifestyle.

Although many nurses struggle to achieve this balance, it is important to remember you are only as good as you are balanced. With the option of varied working hours with the flexibility of shift work means nurses can choose to work part-time, leaving important time for family commitments, travel and other interests.

Start Working With People

For many, managing work and study can be a difficult experience, but there are simple ways you can aid your study. Working in a health or aged care organisation as a healthcare assistant while you study can help you gain confidence in areas such as communication and understanding the general processes that comes with working in healthcare and also allowing you to earn an income.

Work experience is a great way to help you decide if you are really suited to a career in nursing. It is important to be certain that you really understand what this position entails before getting certified. It is a great way to see what it is like to work in the healthcare sector and shows you commitment to your future occupation.

Choose Diversity

A career in nursing has various areas available for you to specialise in. Enrolled nurses assist in the provision of clinical care and emotional support for patients. As an enrolled nurse, you will have a highly rewarding profession and have the opportunity for ongoing education, fulfilling work and the chance to work across a range of clinical and community environments.

Enrolled nurses are employed in a variety of healthcare settings including working in aged care services, hospitals, medical clinics and in the private healthcare sector and rural. There is also the opportunity to work in research, education, management, quality and risk management.

Become a nurse today and see the difference you can make, every day.

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