My Most Satisfying Field in Nursing: A Journey and Reflection

As a dedicated nurse, I have experienced a multitude of rewarding and challenging environments throughout my career. From pediatric emergency departments to intensive care units (ICU), each setting has its unique set of experiences and challenges. This article reflects on what field most satisfies me, and why.

Challenges and Rewards in Various Nursing Fields

My career has taken me through several departments, including the Paediatric Emergency Department (PED), Paediatric Assessment Unit (PAU), CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services), cardiology, and PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit). Each of these areas has its own set of challenges and rewards.

In the PED, we are constantly faced with a variety of emergencies, ranging from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. The unpredictability of our patients necessitates a high level of adaptability and quick thinking. Similarly, the PAU presents a mix of situations, from minor incidents to more serious concerns that require immediate attention. In PICU, we deal with both planned and unexpected cases, often in collaboration with retrieval teams that provide critical care en route to our unit or to other hospitals with available beds.

While all these fields are important, if I had to choose two areas that stand out, they would be the Emergency Department (ED) or the Paediatric Assessment Unit (PAU). The ED is known for its ever-changing scenario, where every new patient brings a fresh set of challenges. The PAU, on the other hand, is a blend of routine and exceptional cases, often requiring quick and decisive action.

The Unique Appeal of Intensive Care Units (ICU)

If I were to narrow it down to one field, it would have to be ICU. ICU provides an extensive learning experience that is not available in other areas. Working in ICU, nurses learn a plethora of medical procedures and practices that are not typically taught in other departments. The respect and trust that doctors and other healthcare professionals have for ICU nurses are notably higher, leading to a more fulfilling work environment.

My time in PICU at a local children's hospital brought me many unforgettable stories of patients who were on the brink of death but managed to recover. The sense of accomplishment in helping individuals overcome such adversities is immeasurable. The ICU environment demands a high degree of skill, knowledge, and empathy, which makes it a particularly rewarding experience for me.

The Value of Long-Term Care

While ICU offers immediate gratification, long-term care (Long-Term Care) provides a different kind of satisfaction. In Long-Term Care settings, such as assisted living facilities, the medical care provided may be less intensive, but the emotional support is invaluable. These facilities often house patients with varying degrees of dementia or other cognitive impairments, who may not recognize their loved ones but can remember the faces and voices of their caregivers. Providing companionship, listening to their stories, and assisting with their daily routines, I had the privilege of connecting with these patients on a deep, personal level. The bonds formed in these settings are rewarding in their own right.

Entrepreneurship in Nursing

While the clinical aspects of nursing are indeed satisfying, my most satisfying field in nursing has been owning my own business. This entrepreneurial venture allowed me the freedom to chart my own path. I have worked in various areas, including medical surgical units, mental health, assisted living, clinics, and beyond. The common thread in all these roles has been the opportunity to work directly with patients.

Deciding to leave hospital nursing was a tough choice due to the long shifts and their impact on my family life. Mental health provided a great opportunity to learn valuable communication skills, but it was also demanding. Assisted living was stress-inducing, with a constant high demand for care. The clinic role, although full-time, did not provide enough remuneration for my efforts.

Ultimately, owning my own business was and continues to be the most fulfilling. I have the freedom to decide my working hours, the rate I charge, and ultimately how much I earn each month. Rather than relying on others, I am self-reliant in my professional life.

Conclusion: My journey in nursing has been diverse and rewarding. From the immediate life-saving actions in ICU to the comfort and companionship in long-term care, each field offers its unique set of challenges and rewards. For me, owning my own business provided the ultimate sense of fulfillment and freedom. Whether it's through direct patient care or entrepreneurship, the satisfaction comes from the meaningful work I do and the impact it has on others.