What to consider when you are picking a nursing specialty.

By Iris

“One day, you will walk into a unit as a nurse, and you will get goosebumps, and your arm hairs will tingle and rise, because it is just the perfect specialty for you.” It was my first day of Nursing 352 during my Junior Spring semester when my geriatrics professor, Professor Alma Rood, shared that this is a feeling we will understand one day when we find the perfect nursing speciality, just like she did. 

Nursing school is full of wondering, “What kind of nurse will I be?” Fortunately, nursing is a world where you really can explore any specialty you desire. However, what do you really have to think about when making these big decisions? As a senior nursing student, here are just a few of many aspects that I would consider before settling on what specialty I want to pursue.

Personal Interests

It is crucial to be able to wake up every day before work and say, “I love what I do”. It may seem simple, but be sure to delve deeper into what truly interests you. If you are not all about the blood and gore, then the operating room may not be for you. If you love working with the elderly or children, this will guide you in two different directions: pediatrics or geriatrics. It may sound cliché, but you must follow what you enjoy doing. Certain units will focus on certain populations and skills than others, so definitely consider that! 

Environment

Every unit has its own pace and environment. The emergency department can be quicker, because they have to be ready for every possible case. The Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) has to receive their patients right away from the operating room and ensure they are stable after receiving anesthesia. Everybody works their best at a different pace; it is essential to determine whether you will be most effective.The beauty of nursing is that some units are a new surprise every day; it is up to you if you find adrenaline in those units!

Career Advancement

Although not everyone knows if they want to advance their careers, whether it be a nurse practitioner or a certified nurse anesthetist, it is paramount to work in certain fields that can guide your path if you are considering this. For example, to be a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), you likely have to have a couple of years of experience in the ICU. It is important to be able to get critical care experience if you have an interest in working in higher-risk settings, to set you up for success.

Finding your nursing specialty may take some time. It is okay to not have this all figured out. Almost a year out from being a nurse, I know it can be anxiety-inducing. But a final consideration that I believe is crucial when considering nursing specialties is to always stay mindful in every clinical and unit you can experience. Enjoy every opportunity to learn and you will just find your true and special place, just like our Professor told us.