Nurses are some of the most crucial members of the healthcare sector. Their work, efforts, and dedication are unmatchable. On average, a nurse spends almost eight to twelve hours on-call every day. They are responsible for looking after patients, catering to all their needs, and building therapeutic relationships. They act as patient advocates, administer medications and treatment, monitor health, and perform diagnostic tests. Not only that, but the nurses take on several other roles as well. They are also responsible for the education of the patients and their families regarding treatments and after-care. Several nurses are a critical part of various surgeries offering their expertise wherever needed. They collaborate with teams, operate medical equipment, and plan the best possible patient care.
In short, nurses play an integral role in healthcare and can influence positive changes to a significant extent. Below, we have talked about a few ways how nurses do so.
- Nurses are Opting for More Advanced Degrees
The healthcare sector is progressing and becoming more technologically advanced by the minute. An increasing number of nurses are starting to realize the need for higher training to remain relevant in this highly competitive field. As a result, nurses are now heading back to the classroom to pursue an advanced degree to get an edge over others.
Online education is another reason why more and more nurses are opting for higher degrees. Online degrees allow them to study at their own pace from the comfort of their house. Therefore, the demand for an online BSN to DNP program has risen more than ever now.
Practicing the full extent of their education can considerably increase a nurse’s productivity. It has a massive effect on their critical thinking and research skills, increases autonomy, and opens doors to new career opportunities. Higher education means more knowledge that makes them eligible to take on physicians’ roles during emergencies or when there is a shortage of doctors.
- Nurses are Taking Leadership Roles
As the healthcare industry grows and changes, so do the nurses’ roles. Nurses are no longer only required on hospital floors or next to patients recording signs and symptoms. Instead, now nurses are stepping into the boardroom. Several healthcare facilities allow nurses to be part of crucial meetings and have a say in patient care and treatment. Their vote and opinion now have a significant impact on decision-making. And rightfully so, since their opinion can be pretty valuable considering they have hands-on experience with patients.
However, all nurse leaders are not always at the top of management. Some nurses independently make decisions considering the well-being of patients. At the same time, some nurse leaders make their role obvious by overseeing other nurses and medical staff, formulating strategies, and setting policies.
- Nurses are Excellent at Building Relationships
One of the most valuable offerings of nurses is their capability to establish strong connections with patients. Nurses prepare patient care with intention, and they listen carefully and entirely and agree on what matters most. They are sympathetic towards the patients, connect with their stories, and explore emotional cues.
When the nurses show interest and concern towards the patients, it helps them gain trust. When the patients begin to trust, they get emotionally involved and feel more empowered. They are also more likely to trust your opinion and return to the treatment offered. Relationships help in boosting the patient’s confidence and lead to positive outcomes. They also get a chance to understand patients at a deeper level and offer them physical and emotional care.
- Nurses Use Their Experience to Offer the Best Possible Patient Care
Even though nurses treat dozens of different patients every day, they never fail to secure meaningful relationships with any. They use their experience to offer the best possible care for all the patients. They ensure to look after their patients and monitor which treatments and medication are improving their health.
Not only that, but the nurses also often become the voice of their patients. They go over and beyond to ensure each patient gets the care they need and deserve. They don’t restrict patient care to a hospital level. Instead, they also advocate for healthcare policies in legislation to improve patient care in deprived cities and communities. They remain committed to their job of providing quality care irrespective of whether they see a patient regularly or only once during a general checkup.
Conclusion
It is about time people start understanding how significant impact nurses leave on patients pre and post-treatment. They often have to give up their comfort and several other things to improve patients’ lives. Yet, their concentration and enthusiasm don’t hinder. Nurses are indeed the backbone of healthcare, and the industry would probably be in chaos without them.
