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Keys to success for a nurse begins before passing the State Boards. With forethought and careful planning, nurses are more likely to be successful in whatever field of nursing their career leads them.

First and foremost, one needs to identify their niche, that area that they truly find interesting, that area where they feel they can relate to the patient and families; where they can truly advocate for their patients.

For some nurses it may be on an Oncology Ward, because of the rewards they would receive from helping patients get through their cancer treatments. The reward they would feel from being there at the end of life to make the transition easier for the patient and family.

It could be in the Emergency Room, a great niche for the type A person who likes a fast paced "treat them and street them" atmosphere. The excitement of saving lives when a Trauma hits the ER. That adrenaline rush during the code, especially when the patient makes it to ICU and not to the Coroner's Office.

Other nurses find that long term care suits them, a place they can develop relationships with the residents and families and feel like a part of their extended family.
There are so many options, but choose carefully. Think about the long term plan.
Network with other Nurses, continually look for ways to learn more and stay up with the latest trends in health care.

Most importantly, take care of yourself. You cannot take care of others if you don't put yourself and family first.

Don't burn yourself out. Slow and steady wins the race.

Be a team player but not a martyr.

Meditate, socialize and keep up with your friends. Set aside a block of time each day, just for you to unwind and regroup.

Use the nursing process of assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation to keep your career on track and moving ahead.

Whatever niche you carve out for yourself, keep current by attending educational seminars, reading trade journals and talking to peers. Education and knowledge are great tools for survival in any field, especially nursing.

With forethought, planning and evaluation your career should be a successful and rewarding adventure.

Learn more about this author, Theresa Robel.
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