5 Biggest Challenges in The Nursing Field Aspirants Should Know

Published on: 05 August 2021 Last Updated on: 10 January 2025
Nursing Field

The healthcare profession is brimming with obstacles and challenges, and the recent pandemic has further added to them. Medical professionals work gruelingly long hours to ensure patient well-being and safety. However, most of these obstacles and challenges are typically seen in a particular sub-division of the healthcare field: the nursing field. Undoubtedly, the nursing profession is not for individuals who are faint of heart.

Moreover, to succeed as a nurse and perform your duties with utmost efficiency, you must have the drive, passion, and knack for helping people in need. Some challenges plaguing the nursing field include difficulty acquiring further education, understaffing issues, and overtime work. Likewise, workplace stress and hazard are also growing concerns for medical workers.

Whatever issues the nursing field faces, nurses remain a vital part of the world’s healthcare workforce. They put other’s needs first and dedicate their entire lives to helping their patients. For instance, the Covid-19 pandemic also made us realize how essential nurses are. However, before you start a career in the nursing field, knowing about all the challenges you’ll face while working is vital.

So, let’s determine some of the biggest challenges in the nursing field that aspirants should know.

1. Difficulty continuing education

The healthcare industry requires individuals to remain up-to-date with the latest medical practices, techniques, and procedures. However, as nurses serve as the first point of physical contact for patients, these medical professionals also need to polish their soft skills.

Therefore, expanding your knowledge base and honing soft skills are critical components of becoming a successful nurse in today’s competitive healthcare setting. And to do such a thing, they must invest time and money in continuing education and obtaining advanced nursing academic credentials.

Unfortunately, acquiring further education while working as a nurse is no cakewalk. As these healthcare professionals work for long, grueling hours, sometimes 24-hour shifts, taking out time for studies can be challenging.

However, if you’re a nurse striving to climb the ladder to success and seeking career advancement, eLearning can benefit you. You can enroll in masters of nursing online programs and study with ease while managing your workload. An online nursing degree will provide you with the flexibility and convenience of learning from home or even work.

2. Overtime issues

Overtime issues

Due to high employee turnover and understaffing, aspirants need to be aware of overtime before diving into the nursing profession. Many nurses state that healthcare facilities utilize overtime to counter the after-effects of understaffing. Unfortunately, this usually leads to overworked nurses, resulting in medical errors, treatment inaccuracies, inaccurate diagnoses, driving away aspiring candidates from the nursing field altogether.

That said, medical facility owners and healthcare leaders must focus on overstaffing issues and try to solve them with a different approach. A viable way to do this is by hiring more competent nursing staff. In addition, they must encourage aspiring medical students to give nursing a go over other health-related careers. After all, nurses are frontline warriors, working at the heart and soul of every healthcare organization worldwide.

3. Understaffing issues

Short staffing is amongst the most common issues in the nursing field. An AMN Healthcare survey shows that about seventy-two percent of healthcare leaders say that they are understaffed in the nursing department. Not to mention, this issue is growing with every passing day, especially since the pandemic struck.

Furthermore, the BLS states that there will be a demand for one billion nurses around 2022 due to the rise in diseases and viruses, and most importantly, Covid-19. Staffing issues usually affect patient health and safety and drastically lower the quality of care at healthcare facilities. Moreover, it can also result in increased injury rates, fatigue, and work pressure.

4. Workplace stress

Workplace stress

Healthcare professionals such as nurses and doctors face work-related stress and burnout, primarily stemming from the unpredictable nature of their work. It mainly affects nurses dealing with high-volume urban departments, senior care, acute psychiatric services, and more. Not to mention, excessive workload and fatigue are ever-present in every healthcare workplace. And nurses bear their fair share of burnout issues, as discussed above.

That said, such a thing shouldn’t put off aspiring candidates. ANA, OSHA, and other government organizations work tirelessly to control workplace stress through education, guidelines, and regulations. After all, nursing staff shouldn’t have to deal with burnout, whether it is because of their workload or job nature.

5. Workplace hazards

Workplace hazards

Every workplace in every field has its fair share of hazards. However, the nursing profession, in particular, faces more than usual. Some potential hazards include exposure to pathogens, injuries, contracting viruses, and other germs. Not to mention, these healthcare professionals are at constant risk of hazards from patients carrying the deadliest viruses.

The Covid-19 pandemic serves as an unfortunate reminder of how working in the healthcare sector can prove fatal. Many nurses and frontline warriors lost their lives battling the virus and serving the ailing. However, it explains why nursing is one of the most prestigious professions of our era. Nurses devote endless hours and put their lives at stake to ensure the well-being of their community and people.

Conclusion

Recognizing the obstacles and the challenges that the nursing field contains is the first step. However, the second, and probably the most important, is overcoming these challenges to ensure you advance in your nursing career. After all, nurses are crucial to every healthcare facility out there. There is no better way to help humankind than to take up the nursing profession.

That said, you might find it challenging to overcome these obstacles initially. But if you remain persistent and focus on your end goal, you’ll reap countless rewards.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Project Manager

How to Spot an Elite Project Manager

Every entrepreneur wants to achieve growth and success in their businesses, one aspect that is very important in every business is the people who work for it and especially their leaders. A project manager must ensure that every project that the business is working on succeeds without failure or waste of resources. In this case, a project manager is expected to have topnotch skills and be strategic in everything he does. Being a leader, they are also expected to not only direct their respective teams but also exercise collaboration with everyone involved. Learn how to identify an elite project manager by checking for the following attributes. 1. Reliable Judgment: A project manager is like any leader and is expected to make many important decisions in the company. He must also be able to strategically prioritize tasks at work to ensure that every aspect of each project is taken care of. His judgment in every decision is very important, and this includes his ability to determine project scope, budget, job scheduling, resource allocation and job assigning to every person in the team among other responsibilities. Brian Setencich warns that if a project manager makes a poor judgment in any of these responsibilities, the entire project is affected. 2. Communication Skills: The project manager is expected to direct other people involved in the project and therefore must communicate all of his directives effectively. Also, a project is usually carried out by different people and everyone involved including the leaders is expected to work on building a positive relationship with other members of the team. The project manager should be able to communicate his directives and instructions in a result-oriented manner. An elite project manager should be able to ask the right questions, address everyone respectively and also listen to his team members because when they are free with their leader, it becomes easy to express their opinions and creativity. 3. Enhance Other People’s Skills: An effective manager is one who can spot a strong opinion from his subordinates and is willing to listen and implement it in the organization if considered viable for the project. People feel more motivated to do more when their opinions and creativity is valued. A project manager should, therefore, give these people the freedom to showcase their skills and talents without limitation. If possible, he should also push for training and development of his team members for better results with the project and the overall performance of the organization. 4. Ability To Think And Act Strategically: A project manager holds a very strategic position in an organization and therefore must be very tactical in every decision he makes. Brian Setencich insists that a project manager should be able to see the big picture in every aspect of the project he is managing and then direct others towards that vision. He is supposed to be very strategic when making every administrative and financial consideration. Another important consideration an elite manager is supposed to make is on how to assign jobs in the project whereby he matches skills and tasks in question without being biased. 5. Ability To Manage Risks: The world today is changing at a high rate, and it is only those who are prepared for change who will be able to survive and thrive in such times. For instance technology advancement is very rapid and the internet keeps on introducing new aspects to people’s personal lives and businesses. Some of these changes might come as risk factors for a specific project, and a good project manager should be prepared before damage happens. An elite manager should remain active and agile in their mindset so as to effectively manage risks as soon as they are anticipated. Recruiting leaders in a business can be more overwhelming than when acquiring any other employee because of the solidity of skills required. If you are hiring a project manager and you are not sure how to acquire an elite one, then consider working with an experienced employment agency. Read Also: Perfect Resume Samples For Every Job How To Live Healthily Even If You Have A Full-Time Job Is Your Company Offering Enough To Potential Employees?  

READ MOREDetails
Retail Interview Questions

Guarantee To Ace EVERY Retail Interview: Top Retail Interview Questions And How To Answer Them

Do you know where strategic sales are the most underrated? It is a retail store! Yet, we as consumers are also looking for a retail worker to help us out. As someone with an aptitude for sales, and np “fancy degree” retail is the first job which you should look into. In fact, to prepare you better, let’s look at the different retail interview questions that you could ask. ...and the most loved answer! Top Retail Interview Questions When I asked a few retail managers, what are the few core characteristics they are looking for in terms of retail workers, they often have these keywords: They need to be extroverted, and ready to help. Their demeanor should be relatable & approachable to every customer. Meticulous about which are in the store. Cluelessness is a big no-no! Managers should be able to rely on them because retail workers work even when most of the country is celebrating. Although it can be one of the most profitable times of the year,  only some are accustomed to the hectic and can deny coming and working. Lastly, staying calm under pressure. No one deals with more customers than the folks in the service industry. Plus, you can always dress the part with the help of these interview attire for men. Now, add subtle sales tactics to the picture, and the work could be challenging. Therefore, managers are looking for retail workers who in general do not react to will be the preferred choice. Therefore, when you go you answer your retail interview questions! 1. Have You Used Our Product Before? Ans. This is a common question for retail interviews, which you can expect. It is better to go for a retail store of which you have been a fan rather than one of one you have never heard of. Begin answering with specifics. What is best about the retail store, and what products do you think are the best? If your interviewer is friendly, you could also state ways to improve the retail experience in the store. As a customer yourself, you can always give them feedback from a customer’s point of view. If you are not a regular shopper, there is a way to answer the question too. Give them a genuine reason why you didn’t buy from the store as often as you would want. Plus, also give them ideas on how they can attract customers like yourself and turn them loyal. 2. What About Working During The Rush Of The Holiday? Ans. Now this is a tricky question. Not all of us are working during the holidays, but being a part of the retail industry, you will have to. A good way to begin is to tell how your personal strength can help you during the rush hours. Plus, also nudge a little towards how you will have to stop working when it gets too overwhelming, and hope the other retailers work as a team and ensure someone can take up when you are too tired. "I love feeling the energy of the people around me and thrive in fast-paced environments. Yes, I realize how crazy busy it gets during the holidays, and I remember being a shopper myself! But I don’t get overwhelmed easily, and I can still perform duties while multitasking. And let’s be honest, holiday shopping is just fun! It is understandable why helping families would be fun." 3. How Would You Deal With A Difficult Customer? We all know not every customer will be easy to please. Employers want to know if you can maintain professionalism, even when a situation gets tense. You know, if you ever deal with a "Karen" with whom you simply cannot reason. Dealing with difficult customers is a normal part of the job. Therefore, preparing this answer is crucial. Here is how you can answer and show them how you are also understanding towards the customers from a humanitarian Ans. "I would just listen to what they have to say without interrupting. Sometimes, people just need to vent and feel like someone is listening to their concerns. Once I understood their issue, I would do my best to fix the problem, or if I couldn't, I would get them a manager who could help. The main thing is not to get all upset yourself; be calm and let them know you are there for them." 4. What Do You Think About Good Customer Service? This is one of the classic retail interview questions. Therefore, rather than taking a trendy route, it is better to take a traditional route. Especially if your interviewee has a few years of experience in the retail industry, show that you understand the importance of putting the customer first. Ans. “Good customer service is about making customers feel welcomed, heard, and completely satisfied with their transaction. It’s about being friendly and open to questions, as well as willing to put in the time and effort to make sure that when a customer walks out of your store, they’re walking out happy! Return customers are happy customers!” 5. What About A Busy Day? How Can You Manage The Busy Days? Again, these are very plausible questions that they will ask. The trick is not to feel overwhelmed by the question itself. The chances of the retail store being busier than ever are rare. These are only a few days of the year, so, you wouldn't have to deal with it daily. Here is a good answer to this question: Ans. "In my last job, I worked at a big sales event for the day; as you can imagine, it was all hands on deck. We had to work out our shifts over time, deal with stock, and make sure every customer was seen. My co-workers and I performed brilliantly that day – we exceeded our target because we all supported each other so well. During busier times, it is all about teamwork." 6. How Would You Promote A Product To A Customer? Sales are a big part of this job, so expect these kinds of interview questions for retail! Ans. “I would first ask the customer some questions to help me get an idea of what they are looking for. Then, I would go on to tell them about the features that the product has and how it can benefit them. It is important to know what the customer wants before you can show them products which they apparently do not need." 7. Longer Working Hours will Require More Time On Your Feet The nature of retail work can be physically demanding; employers do not want to take a risk with anyone who may struggle. Ans. “Yes, I know that in retail, you must be on your feet a lot, and I am okay with that. I have done things like this before, and it doesn’t bother me. I will still be able to work hard and get my job done.” 8. Why Do You Want To Work For Us? This is your opportunity to demonstrate that you have done your research into the company & prepared yourself with the right interview skills. Plus, you shouldn't talk about superficial things like their products or beautiful department stores. Ans. "I like your company's commitment to customer satisfaction and quality products. Your positive work culture draws my interest as well. With my communication and sales skills, I think I would be a great fit to help you achieve your goal and push the business." 9. How Do You Prioritize Tasks When The Store Is Busy? Multi-tasking is key in retail. Therefore, when you are asked this kind of retail interview question, you must take this chance to demonstrate how you stay organized. Ans. "When it is really busy, I make sure to do the most time-sensitive things first. Like helping a line of customers waiting. This gives me a good idea of what I need to do as far as cleaning/stocking goes, and I adjust it day by day to the pace of the store." 10. What If Someone Asks you A Question You Have No Answer To? No one expects you to know everything, but they want to see how you can think on your feet and remain positive. Ans. "If I don’t know the answer to a customer’s question, I would tell them the truth and let them know I’m going to find out. I would ask someone who has been there longer or look it up so I can give the customer the right information." 11. Tell Me About A Time You Worked Under Pressure This is a question that will help the interviewer understand how well you handle the stress that can come with retail. Ans. "During a previous job, we had a last-minute sale announcement, and the store was so busy. I had to use the cash register and to answer customers' questions. Plus, watching the stock at the same time. I stayed calm and just did what I had to do & helped each customer as quickly as possible." 12. What Motivates You To Work In Retail? Managers want to know what makes you tick, let alone in retail. Please, do not give them the idea that this is a last-minute job. Ans. “I enjoy helping people and finding exactly what they need. I think retail is all about the customer experience, and that’s why I like it so much. It’s also fast-paced, which keeps me going!” Plus, if you plan to pursue a marketing degree afterward, this is a good way to begin. So, do not forget to mention that. 13. What If Someone Gives A Negative Feedback About You? Negative feedback is inevitable. The issue is whether you let it control you. Therefore, when it comes to them, your approach should always be neutral, with an enthusiasm for solving the problem, even if you cannot solve the problem sometimes. Ans. "I see negative feedback as a chance to make something good! I read and re-read the customers' comments and responded to them as soon as possible. If an apology is in order, I apologize immediately (no pride here) and begin working on changing their thought of us. Stay positive & don't take it personally." 14. Ever Used A Cash Register? If you’ve ever worked in retail before, you’ll be familiar with this. If not, don’t worry – just let them know. Ans. “Yes, I’ve used cash registers in my last job, and I’m happy to be dealing with cash and card transactions. I pick up new systems quickly, and I’m sure I can get the hang of the register system you have here.” "No, I have never worked on a cash register. However, I have worked in retail before, and I know how it works. Therefore, you should always get some of the 15. How Would You Deal With A Coworker With Whom You Do Not Get Along Whenever you are asked retail interview questions like this, it is your chance to show how professional you are. Begin your answer with this: “I'm okay with that. I pick my battles, and one person in a company isn't going to ruffle my feathers enough for me to worry.” Teamwork is important. Your ability to work as part of a team is just as important as standing out and getting things done on your own. Ans. "I believe in keeping direct confidence with people. If, however, there is a misunderstanding, I will clear that thing up one-on-one and professionally with my colleague. I would find a way to work together as the team's success is more important than a personal one." Read Also: What Is a Remote Job? Everything You Need to Know 55+ Unique Interview Questions to Ask Your Future Employer 7 Proven Tips To Leave A Lasting Impression On Your Interviewer

READ MOREDetails
Internship Programs

Benefits of Internship Programs

After graduation when you are ready to apply to your first job, do you think having prior work experience would be helpful in choosing the right career for you? Are you thinking about the best way to gain proper career experience before you have to start job searching? If so, it is probably the best route for you to look into an internship program that will give you real-life experience in the career-world within a particular industry you choose as well as serve as an eye-opener for the type of career you may want to plan for. Even if an internship turns out to not be the career choice for you, you are at least able to narrow-down your career options while boosting your resume in the process. To learn more about how an internship can prepare you for your future, we have taken a deeper look in this article to understand how beneficial internship programs are to students. Adds Value to Resume: Getting a good job in this competitive world is becoming increasingly difficult with each passing day. With how competitive the job search is today, employers are likely to give preference to a candidate that has more experience, either in that particular industry or even just the real-world in general if you are just starting out in an entry-level role. When they see experience listed on your resume, it improves your market value. An internship on your CV provides a good way to demonstrate not only work experience, but that you have developed real-life career skills as well. If you are interested in gaining internship experience while also giving back to your community, you can look into non profit internships from local charities who are also more than willing to give students a chance to broaden their educational horizons. Further, nonprofit internships allow you documented proof that displays all the skills that you have gained during the internship. Adding these skills in your resume helps in sharing your work exposure during an interview. Build Industry Connections: While working in a company during your internship programs, you interact with numerous people that let you network and establish contacts with co-workers. Working in a professional network sometimes also helps in securing a job upon completion of your internship there. You also get an opportunity to attend official meetings that give you an idea about essential career skills as well as office culture. All this experience, along with your degree, helps in reaching the pinnacle of success. When you finish your internship in a company, you will hopefully gain a reference, which acts as an invaluable help when you are looking for a job. Try to be on good terms with your fellow interns and the company in which you are attending internship program. You never know how good networking with in past career experiences can help you with a future job you apply to down the road. Develop Skills and boosts Confidence: Good skills are always preferred for a job. While attending internships, you gain skills and become more presentable. You get exposure before starting your career, and it adds as a benefit. Your confidence level is boosted when you make projects, presentations during your internships. With real-world work experience, you understand your abilities, and that makes you more confident in your job interviews. Career Exploration: You join your college with a career goal. There is a possibility that when you attend the internship, during the period your interest moves on to the subject for which you are taking an internship. So, ensure that the programs that you chose for the internships are relevant to your career interests. These programs also help you in narrowing down your career perspective. As these acts as a deciding factor for you to understand what type of job you like.  If you don’t like your program, still you are in a win-win situation. This provides you an opportunity to explore the fields that you like. Financial Help: While undergoing an internship from a company, many industries offer you stipend for your valuable work. This also helps the students who are not financially strong to use the money for their college tuition fee. So it’s the best way of gaining experience and making money at the same time. Moreover, many companies offer the job to the deserving candidates, by the end of the internship. Doesn’t it seem great to have a job before your college ends? Your classroom learning is also enhanced with your work experience from these internships. So, grab a program now to brush up your skills and add value to your CV. Read Also: 4 Ways To Keep Your Top Talent At Work Best MBA Colleges In India Attracting The Best Of Best Among Students

READ MOREDetails