Nursing truly does open up a world of possibilities. Whether you are based in a large city or a small town of 500 people or less, there are nursing opportunities available to you if you know where to look. My guest this week, Heidi, shares with us her experiences of working at a large hospital vs. working in a small town hospital with only 18 beds total.   So, whether you are a city kid dreaming of a small town scene or just the opposite, take a listen to this episode to learn some pros and cons for each situation. 
Not sure which area of nursing is "your jam" so to speak? Learn from Heidi why being a float nurse can be a fun way to experience multiple areas rather than specializing in one area.  Our need for work fluctuates throughout our lives, especially when it comes to having a family. Perhaps you need fewer hours but do not want to give up nursing all together. Heidi gives her opinion and tips about how to go about asking for a change in schedules that will allow you to continue to be a stellar nurse while also being there for family when they need you most. 

Show Notes:

• Everyone has a different path into nursing. In this episode we learn of the benefits of becoming a CNA prior to attending nursing school.
• It is possible to start your nursing program at one school and transfer to another after a year.
• Becoming a float nurse gives you great experiences in many areas of nursing while also allowing you to learn which area are most interesting to you.
• Bigger hospitals may afford you more opportunities for growth and upward movement, while also being a great way to specialize in one area of nursing.
• Small hospitals force you to be more involved out of necessity. You may get to help deliver a baby, take a patient in the ED,  and have a hospice patient all in the same shift!
• In Heidi's words, "Some of the very best nurses I know worked there [small hospital]"
• Nursing really allows for a wide variety of hours and scheduling. 
• While it can be frightening, it is possible to go PRN if that is what your life demands at the time. Just make sure you have shown your worth as an RN where you work, and that you have a good relationship of trust with  employers.
• "Be present" whether you are on shift or not, really try to be in the moment.
• Know a nurse? Share this podcast!
• Follow us on Instagram @still.a.nurse
• Have a question you would like to hear answered on our show? leave a comment on our Instagram page, or send me an email at [email protected]
• If you would like to share your nursing stories on our show please let us know! Just send an email to the address listed above.

Links:

1. https://www.usu.edu/degrees/index.cfm?id=1187 Nursing program in northern Utah
2. https://www.suu.edu/nursing/ Nursing program in southern Utah
3. https://www.jointcommission.org/ For more information about the Joint Commission click here
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