Many individuals aspire to pursue a nursing career, imagining themselves at the bedside, delivering compassionate and sometimes lifesaving patient care. However, a nursing career doesn’t begin and end in a medical setting. Emmi, a registered nurse and Director of Clinical Support has worked in healthcare for 35 years, 25 as a nurse and three with MedPro. She joins Vanessa on the third episode of Journey: A MedPro Podcast to share how a nursing degree can open doors to unexpected opportunities that clinicians may not have previously considered.
Endless Possibilities
Initially, Emmi found the idea of becoming a doctor appealing; it seemed exciting yet sensible. However, as she delved deeper, she realized it wasn’t the right fit. Nursing didn’t initially strike her as the answer either, but fate led her to a role as a first assistant in an operating room. She spent ten years in the position before making the leap to nursing school, knowing she would end up in the Emergency Room. Emmi said, “The fast-paced environment, the opportunity to connect with people, to touch, see, hear, and teach all while staying abreast of the latest innovations, seemed to be exclusively available at the bedside.”
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, she remained steadfast in that position, but as the world shifted, so did her perspective and her need to find something different. “I had no idea how many options we had as nurses.” Telehealth, school nursing, the military—with the advancements in technology, the proliferation of AI and apps, and the diverse needs of communities worldwide, the possibilities were endless.
Find Your Niche
In the post-pandemic landscape, seasoned nurses like Emmi recognize the challenges faced by those just entering the workforce. She explained that the experiences and opportunities “seasoned” nurses took for granted are not always available now. Now, new grads learning through simulation labs and limited hands-on experience with patients underscoring the need for ongoing mentorship and knowledge sharing. She said it’s crucial for new nurses to seek guidance from seasoned professionals and to maintain a hunger for learning.
Working at MedPro was a fluke. Emmi had never even heard of the clinical nurse liaison position, but now she’s sharing her expertise with others in the field. She encourages new nurses to ask as many questions and get as much insight as they can from seasoned nurses.
With so many options and potential paths in nursing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Take the time to explore different areas and find your niche. You can always start by dipping your toe in various specialties before committing fully. Above all, cherish the privilege of being a nurse and appreciate the support of those around you. Nursing is a calling, and it’s a journey filled with purpose and fulfillment.
To hear Emmi’s full episode, including tips on interviewing, go to YouTube, Spotify, or Apple.