· an explanation of your choice of a nursing specialty within the program……. § Describe any difficulties you had (or are having) in making your choice……. § Identify at least one professional organization affiliated with your chosen specialty and provide details on becoming a member……………. Please use the following resources: American Nurses Association. (2013). (2nd ed.). Silver Spring, MD: Author.
Introduction:
Choosing a nursing specialty is a crucial decision for nursing students as it determines their career path and defines their area of expertise. The process of selecting a specialty involves carefully considering personal interests, strengths, and long-term goals. In this paper, I will discuss my choice of a nursing specialty within the program, describe the difficulties I faced in making this decision, and identify a professional organization affiliated with my chosen specialty.
Choice of Nursing Specialty:
After careful consideration and self-reflection, I have chosen to pursue a specialty in critical care nursing. Critical care nursing involves providing specialized care to patients with life-threatening conditions, such as those in intensive care units (ICUs) or emergency departments. This specialty requires a high level of technical skills, critical thinking, and the ability to handle complex situations.
I have always been drawn to the fast-paced and challenging environment of critical care. The opportunity to work with critically ill patients and make a meaningful impact in their lives is what attracts me the most. The critical care setting also facilitates continuous learning and professional growth as nurses are exposed to a diverse range of complex medical conditions.
Difficulties in Making the Choice:
Choosing a nursing specialty was not an easy decision for me, as I encountered several difficulties along the way. One of the main challenges I faced was the wide array of options available within the nursing profession. From pediatrics to oncology, each specialty seemed compelling in its own right.
To overcome these difficulties, I engaged in a thorough self-assessment process. I evaluated my interests, strengths, and personal values to align them with the characteristics and demands of different specialties. I also sought guidance from experienced nurses and conducted informational interviews with professionals working in various specialties to gain a better understanding of their day-to-day responsibilities and challenges.
After careful consideration, I narrowed down my options and finally chose critical care nursing as my specialty. Despite the strong appeal of other specialties, I recognized that critical care aligned well with my passion for high acuity patient care and the opportunity for continuous learning.
Professional Organization Affiliated with Critical Care Nursing:
One professional organization affiliated with critical care nursing is the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). The AACN is the largest specialty nursing organization in the world, dedicated to promoting excellence in critical care nursing practice, education, and research. It provides resources, professional development opportunities, and a platform for networking and collaboration among critical care nurses.
To become a member of the AACN, individuals must meet certain criteria. These criteria include holding a current nursing license, completing a nursing program, and having a specific interest or involvement in critical care nursing. Membership benefits include access to evidence-based practice resources, educational programs, leadership opportunities, and the opportunity to contribute to advancing critical care nursing through research and advocacy efforts.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the choice of a nursing specialty is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and self-reflection. I have chosen critical care nursing as my specialty based on my interest in high acuity patient care and the opportunity for continuous learning. Despite the difficulties in making this choice, the self-assessment process assisted me in aligning my interests and strengths with the demands of different specialties. The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is a prominent professional organization affiliated with critical care nursing, and becoming a member of this organization provides numerous benefits and opportunities for professional growth.