The
Future of Nursing
July
2002
Publicly
and personally each emergency nurse worries about the future of
nursing. Sure, the technology will continue to advance and systems
will be developed to improve efficiency but what about the heart of
nursing? What about the human factor?
We know that the average age of
nurses is now approximately 40 and in some states older. What does
that mean to us? What has happened to the young nurse graduate? What
will become of emergency nursing and what will become of our
sisterhood specialties in other professions of nursing? Who will fill
the void when the retiring nurses are gone?
There is an extensive national
effort (professionally, corporately and legislatively) to recruit
nurses but what can we do as individuals?
Our voice and passion for a career
in nursing can be utilized to promote a recruiting effort and improve
the respect for nursing (a necessary component to attract or retain
others in the field) by
1)
demonstrating professional behaviors at the bedside maintaining a
positive and influential impact on patient outcomes and corporate
image. Professional interactions create an atmosphere of dignity and
respect with all concerned. Corporate leaders within the institution
will recognize the value of those who bring dignity to the corporate
philosophy.
2)
verbalizing to children, teenagers and their parents the diversity,
flexibility, and rewards (satisfaction and monetary) that nursing
offers.
3)
welcoming new staff and assisting to mentor those with less experience
4)
participating in professional nursing organizations. This has been
proven to improve the knowledge base, practice standards and
brainstorming and networking with other emergency nurses in the field.
This participation additionally promotes a "united
specialty" positive public image as well as countless other
features.
5)
volunteering to use your emergency nursing expertise for community and
injury prevention projects. This models societal-contributing
behaviors to the younger generation.
6)
contacting your legislative representative to lend your opinion on
significant nursing/health issues.
7)
identifying people (regardless of their current status or employment)
that you feel have the qualities necessary to be a good nurse.
8)
taking every opportunity to "advertise" the benefits of
nursing.
Each of us can think of ways we can encourage and support
nurses to enter or remain in our field of nursing. Take the challenge
to be an inspiration to the profession. Make a difference. Realize
your influential power. Let your professionalism shine for all to see!
The results will be contagious and amazing!!!!
Pamela S. Fox, RN, BSN, CEN
President Maryland State Emergency Nurses
Association