research your Health Care Profession, conduct an “inner-view” to learn more about your profession and write an reflection sharing your personal experience of what brought you to wanting to pursue your profession as well as your career path.
Part 1- Choose ONE of the areas below:
Find the area that you have chosen below and be sure to include the points below the area in your paper.
JOB DESCRIPTION
• Describe the care/service provided by the healthcare professional.
• Describe the limits of authority and responsibility and the legislated scope of practice for this health care career.
• Describe two or three of the “Code of Ethics” of your health care profession.
EDUCATION /REGISTRATION/CERTIFICATION
• Describe the educational requirements for the profession.
• Identify at least two different educational institutions offering the program.
• State how much time it takes to complete the program at each institution.
• Describe the approximate cost for each of the educational institutions.
• What is the minimum degree or certification that can be earned for this health care career?
• Identify the required professional certifications or registrations
JOB OUTLOOK AND EMPLOYMENT
• What is the job availability for this profession?
• How many jobs are expected to become available?
• Growth trends in the field: How much is the profession growing?
• Salaries – both entry level and with experience
PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES
• Local, state, or national professional organizations and membership costs as a student.
• Professional journal and cost.
• Are Continuing Educational Units (CEUs) required for this profession?
o How many and how often?
Full Answer Section
Limits of Authority and Scope of Practice:
RNs practice within the legal and ethical guidelines set forth by their state's nursing board. Their scope of practice defines the activities they can perform independently and those requiring physician supervision. Tasks like medication administration, wound care, and administering IV fluids typically require an RN license. Activities like diagnosing illnesses or prescribing medications fall outside the scope of an RN's practice and are reserved for physicians.
Code of Ethics:
The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics outlines core principles guiding nurses' professional conduct. Here are two examples:
- Patient Advocate: Nurses prioritize the patient's well-being, respecting their autonomy, rights, and dignity.
- Professional Competence: Nurses maintain their knowledge and skills through continuing education and strive to deliver safe, quality care.
Education/Registration/Certification:
Educational Requirements:
To become an RN, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is the preferred pathway. Some hospitals may accept RNs with Associate's Degrees in Nursing (ADN) but may require them to pursue a BSN within a specific timeframe.
Educational Institutions:
BSN programs are offered at a variety of universities and colleges nationwide. Here are two examples:
- Public University: Many state universities offer BSN programs with tuition costs varying depending on residency status. In-state tuition can range from $5,000 to $20,000 per year.
- Private University: Private universities may offer BSN programs with higher tuition costs, potentially exceeding $40,000 per year.
Program Length and Cost:
BSN programs typically take four years to complete full-time, while ADN programs can be completed in two years. Costs vary depending on the institution, but expect a total cost ranging from $20,000 to $80,000 or more.
Minimum Degree/Certification:
The minimum requirement to practice as an RN is a BSN degree and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Professional Certifications:
While not mandatory for all RN positions, additional certifications in specific areas like gerontology, pediatrics, or critical care can enhance career opportunities and earning potential.
Job Outlook and Employment:
The job outlook for RNs is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth rate for RN positions from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and increasing healthcare needs.
Salaries:
Entry-level RN salaries can range from $50,000 to $70,000 per year, with experienced RNs earning significantly more. Salaries can vary depending on location, specialty area, and work setting.
Professional Activities:
Professional Organizations:
- American Nurses Association (ANA): Membership fees vary depending on student status.
- National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA): Offers resources and networking opportunities for student nurses. Membership fees are typically low.
Professional Journals:
- American Journal of Nursing (AJN): Subscription costs can range from $50 to $100 per year.
- Numerous specialty nursing journals exist, catering to specific areas of practice. Subscription costs may vary.
Continuing Education (CEUs):
Most states mandate RNs to complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their licenses. The specific number of CEUs required and the renewal timeframe can vary by state.
My Journey to Nursing:
My path to nursing was fueled by a lifelong desire to help others and a fascination with the human body and its complexities. Witnessing the dedication and compassion of nurses caring for my grandfather during his illness sparked a deep admiration for the profession. Volunteering at a local hospital further solidified my calling. Shadowing nurses working in different departments exposed me to the diverse roles RNs play within the healthcare system. The opportunity to combine my passion for science with a career that directly impacts people's lives is incredibly rewarding. The intellectual challenge, teamwork, and continuous learning opportunities within nursing are aspects that I find highly motivating.
This is just a starting point, and you can personalize this further by:
- Describing specific experiences that influenced your decision to become an RN.
- Mentioning any personal qualities or skills that make you a good fit for
Sample Answer
Inner View: Registered Nurse (RN)
Job Description:
Registered Nurses (RNs) provide a wide range of patient care services. They assess patients' physical and mental health, develop and implement care plans, administer medications, monitor vital signs, educate patients and their families, and collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals. RNs work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices, home health care, and long-term care facilities.