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I will begin by informing you I am biased on this subject, as I have worked as a nurse for the last 14 years. I have worked in Emergency Departments, ICU, Oncology, Acute Care, Doctors Office as well as Maternity/Well Baby Nursery. My career alone is proof of the vast diversity in nursing.

For me, the allure of nursing lies in it's changing opportunites. There is something for everyone in the nursing field, and you can often find your niche while in nursing school. Many people tell me "I couldn't do that, I can't stand blood". I am here to tell you the like or dislike of bodily fluids is irrelevant! There are many opportunites in nursing that ensure you won't see any more goriness than the average person. The following occupations are within the nursing field, are in demand, and pay extremely well:

*Legal Nurse Consultant-Work with a legal team evaluating cases and assisting lawyers with medical aspects of a lawsuit.

*Teacher-Stay in the classroom preparing new nurses, or work in a hospital environment helping experienced nurses stay up to date. Educate patients about diseases such as diabetes or renal dialysis.

*Nursing Administration-Be an advocate for nurses on the floor. Working closely with hospital/nursing home administration you will make policies and create an environment to guarantee quality patient care.

However, If direct patient is what you are looking for, the vast array of specialty careers is calling to you! Each specialty takes a special person to take on that particular task, and do it well. Oncology nursing, Obstetric Nursing, Neonatal Nursing, Long Term Care Nursing, Physician's Office Nursing, Surgical Nursing, Intensive Care Nursing, the list goes on and on. There is truly something for everyone.

In my experience, being a nurse requires the following qualifications:

*A true desire to help others.

*Willingness to adapt to a constantly changing field.

*Ability to learn something new, everyday.

The following poem by Melodie Chenevert sums up, perfectly I think, what it is to be a nurse.

Being a Nurse Means

You will never be bored
You will always be frustrated
You will be surrounded by challenges.
So much to do and so little time
You will carry immense responsibility
And limited authority.
You will step into people's lives
And you will make a difference.
Some will bless you,
Some will curse you.
You will see people at their worst
And at their best.
You will never cease to be amazed
At people's capacity for
Love, courage, and endurance.
You will experience resounding triumphs
And devastating failures.
You will cry a lot.
You will laugh a lot.
You will know what it is to be human
And to be humane.

Learn more about this author, Daneen Bell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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