Nursing is a very rewarding yet challenging profession. Often many novice and veteran nurses alike contemplate leaving the profession for one reason or another. Burnout, physical drain, and the desire to have a more adequate work-life balance are common motives for seeking greener pastures.
In fact, one recent study found that 57% of nurses reported feeling exhausted in 2022. This only speaks to the emotional labor associated with the profession. Knowing what choices exist often leads to new, enriching paths for nurses who want change. Here are some of the most promising career pivots for nurses.
Additional Read: WHO Report: Over 5 Million Nurse & Midwife Jobs Unfilled by 2030
Alternative Careers In Healthcare
For the nurse who still wants to stay in the healthcare industry, several alternative careers can be pursued, all of which utilize the skills already established as a nurse:
- Teacher: Those nurses who have a desire to teach others will find an opportunity as a teacher. Often, an advanced degree is required, and the schedule can be structured, but no doubt it’s rewarding to be a part of creating the future nursing profession. The growth for teaching positions is forecasted to grow 20% in the coming decade.
- Nurse Administrator: This position involves nurse administrator supervision of nursing personnel as well as nursing practice leadership in the healthcare organization. Nurse administrators work with a more traditional schedule.
- Nurse Researcher: The researcher believes that this professional will contribute positively to the field of nursing science. Nurses holding doctoral degrees such as PhD or DNP can impact healthcare positively by advancing it through research contributions. The job growth for nursing research career projects is estimated at 18%.
- Nurse Consultant: A professional position utilizing clinical expertise in consultancy practice, sometimes independent and sometimes within an organization. This role attracts current practicing nurses seeking flexibility.
- Case Manager: For case managers, patient care planning is a crucial function. This often appeals to those who identify with advocacy. Its work outlook is very strong, expected to increase by 22%.
Options Outside of Healthcare
There are several exit options available for nurses who want out of traditional healthcare careers.
- Health and Wellness Coach: Nurses can transition into coaching, where they help clients achieve specific health goals. This is a growing field, with projected growth of 12%.
- Medical Writer: Those who produce writings of the best quality can transition into careers in medical writing, creating all types of material for different consumers. This has been somewhat flexible and is increasing as more pharmaceutical companies turn to in-house-orientated services instead of external agencies.
- HealthCare IT Specialist: As technology in healthcare grows, nurses interested in healthcare IT may want to consider the role of a healthcare IT specialist. The jobs in this field are growing by 13%.
- Patient Advocate: With an emphasis on the rights and navigation of the patient, nurses may continue to show commitment to patient care but in a non-clinical environment.
- Corporate Trainer or Instructor: Use existing knowledge to train staff in almost any company. This career typically has more stable scheduling and travel opportunities.
Transitioning Your Career
Transitioning a career is intimidating but possible with planning. Here are some steps nurses can take to facilitate a smooth transition process:
- Self-Assessment: Contemplate interests and values to create a short list of appropriate career directions.
- Exploration and Networking: Research options, contact professionals working in those areas and learn from these professionals.
- Education and Certification: Obtain the necessary qualifications for the new career, perhaps requiring advanced degrees or acquiring new certification.
- Professional Branding: Update resumes and profile sites to focus on skills applicable to the new career.
- Seeking Mentors: Find mentors who have had similar transitions and can guide and support you.
Wrapping Up
A career change is a big decision, but nurses are well-prepared to seek new opportunities that would lead them toward achieving their aspirations and passions. Nurses can find various options for themselves within and out of healthcare settings and translate their competencies into meaningful ways.
At Dynamic Health Staff, we understand the demands and changes nurses experience, and we are solely committed to helping them find career enrichment. We at Dynamic Health Staff can provide you with a perfect route toward new opportunities in healthcare or moving abroad for better work-life balance job opportunities in reputed hospitals. If you are ready to take that next step toward your future, get in touch with us today at enquiry@dynamichealthstaff.com or +919810017608 to find the support you need!
Reach out to us today: Dynamic Health Staff!
