Choosing a workplace isn't about 'where,' it's about 'you.' The real truth from a 10-year nurse.
Over 10 years of nursing experience.
I spent 4 years at the hospital I joined as a new graduate, then worked through temp agencies, one-off clinic shifts, and nursing homes,
before spending 5 years at another hospital. I am currently working as a facility nurse, will be leaving that position soon, and am scheduled to work at a clinic next.
Looking back, I haven't changed jobs that many times, but
having seen many different workplaces, there is one thing I feel clearly.
Choosing a workplace isn't just about 'where you work,' but how your perspective changes completely depending on 'what kind of person you are when you work'.
What is expected of a nurse differs between university hospitals and general hospitals, and
even within the same 'clinic' category, the way you work and the atmosphere are completely different between cosmetic and internal medicine clinics.
Long-term care hospitals, visiting nursing, facility nursing...
The skills and roles required of a nurse, as well as the salary, change completely depending on the location.
And another important thing is
what kind of life you are living right now.
When you are single versus when you have children,
the hours you can work, the conditions you prioritize, your physical stamina, and your mindset all change.
Your priorities really do change!
My 'axis for choosing a workplace' changed significantly from when I was single to after I became a mom.
When I was single (in my case),
1st was money, 2nd was interpersonal relationships, 3rd was skills and career...
When I had a child (in my case),
1st was working hours, 2nd was interpersonal relationships, 3rd was money...
I suppose.
Nursing work might seem like something you can do anywhere if you have the license,
but in reality, 'not every place is a good fit for you.'
In this note, with that perspective in mind,
based on my own experience of seeing many different workplaces,
I want to share 'tips for finding a workplace that suits you'
for nursing students and nurses who are thinking about changing jobs.
'Stick it out for 3 years' is old news. It's a fossil.
You can definitely find 'a workplace that suits you.'