Nurses provide patient care, support recovery, and promote health in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of patients.
What is a typical day in Nursing?
– Monitoring patient conditions and recording observations
– Administering medications and treatments prescribed by doctors
– Assisting patients with daily activities like eating and mobility
– Educating patients and families about health conditions and aftercare.
What else might they be expected to do?
– Coordinate with healthcare teams to create care plans
– Provide emotional support to patients and families
– Participate in public health campaigns or community outreach programs
What type of training is needed for this career path?
– A Diploma in Nursing (3 years) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (4 years).
– Completion of a clinical internship for hands-on experience.
– Licensing by the Nursing Council of Kenya or equivalent regulatory bodies.
What kind of personality is needed to excel in this career path?
– Caring, patient, and detail-oriented individuals thrive in this role.
– Big 5 traits: Agreeableness and Conscientiousness.
– Myers-Briggs types: ESFJ or ISFJ often align with this career.
What kind of interests do people in this career path have?
– Passion for helping others and improving health outcomes (Social traits).
– Interest in teamwork and hands-on caregiving.
– Interests & Aptitude: Social (S), Realistic (R), and Investigative (I)
Are there any innate skills or aptitudes required?
– Strong interpersonal and communication skills
– Emotional resilience to handle stressful situations
– Practical skills for administering care
What challenges can I expect to face if I pursue this career path?
– Long and physically demanding shifts
– Managing emotionally charged situations with patients and families
– Balancing patient care with administrative responsibilities
What are the job prospects for this path in Kenya and Africa? What about International prospects for a Kenyan citizen?
– Kenya and Africa: Kenya and Africa: High demand for nurses in both public and private sectors, especially in rural and underserved areas.
– International: Nurses are in global demand, particularly in countries like the UK, USA, and Canada. Kenyan nurses often qualify for international positions after meeting licensing requirements.
What should I focus on if I choose to pursue this career?
– Gain practical experience during clinical placements.
– Develop excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
– Pursue continuous professional development through nursing workshops and certifications.
Which other careers or job roles can I progress to?
– Nurse Practitioner
– Nurse Educator
– Public Health Nurse
– Hospital Administrator
– Specialist Nurse (e.g., Paediatric, Psychiatric)