I could give a million reasons why I chose to become a nurse. Of course I became a nurse because I want to help people, but it is so much more than that. When you become a nurse, it becomes part of who you. That mentality is ingrained in you forever.
I’ve always been a bit of a science and math nerd. As long as I can remember I enjoyed complex math and chemistry problems, looking in a microscope at cells and viruses, and learning about the human body. That in itself was a huge reason for wanting to be in the healthcare industry. By pursuing a career in healthcare I was able to expand my knowledge on those things and continue to apply it every single day. I always learn something new. It is quite fascinating really. There’s never a dull moment. Constantly observing and planning your next move based off what your knowledge, science, and intuition tell you.
However, as much as I love that the world of healthcare is ever expanding research and development, even that wasn’t my biggest reason for becoming a nurse. My biggest reason is one word. Advocacy.
Have you seen a patient with no resources and who is severely ill be denied treatment or coverage from a provider or insurance? Have you seen a provider blow off a patient or nurse’s concerns? Have you seen a nurse struggle because they know something is wrong but they don’t want to bother the doctor? I have seen all of these and more.
I have watched nurses stand up to doctors and I’ve seen nurses put down by doctors. I have watched nurses put their foot down and demand something for their patients and the doctor apologize when the nurse is right. I have watched patients be treated differently because of their financial class or their ethnicity. I’ve seen patients discharged unsafely because insurance wouldn’t approve rehab or a doctor ignored the nurses concerns. I’ve watched patients be discharged from the hospital in tears because insurance would not approve the medication and resources they need. I’ve not only watched these things I have experienced them myself.
If there is anything in this world that breaks my heart as a nurse, it is watching a patient be failed by the system that was initially designed to help them. And that is my biggest reason for becoming a nurse and getting into healthcare. I may only be one person, but from the moment I took on the title of “Nurse”, advocacy was my biggest goal.
I have promised myself from day one and continue to promise myself every day that advocacy stays one of my top priorities in patient care. That I’d keep my patients safe and let them know I care. Even if you just want me to hold your hand, I will make time for you. No matter how hard or challenging I will always fight for my patients when they need me and when they can’t fight for themselves.
I see so many nurses with this same passion. Maybe on our own nothing will happen, but can you imagine the roar we’d make if we could all stand together in one room. That is why I am a nurse. That is why I chose to be in the healthcare industry.
Transitioning from a career as a military officer to the field of nursing, I am driven by a renewed sense of purpose and a mission to continue serving others. In this essay, I will discuss the reasons behind my decision to pursue nursing and how my experiences as a military officer have shaped my mission in this noble profession. With a deep-rooted commitment to compassion, leadership, and service, I aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and contribute to the healthcare community.
As a former military officer, I have experienced the profound fulfillment that comes from dedicating oneself to a mission greater than personal interests. Joining the field of nursing allows me to continue serving others, albeit in a different capacity. Nursing embodies the values of selflessness, sacrifice, and commitment to the well-being of others, which are principles I wholeheartedly embrace. This transition represents a natural progression in my journey of service and a continuation of my mission to make a positive impact.
During my time in the military, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of compassion and empathy in alleviating suffering and fostering resilience. These experiences have instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of providing compassionate care to individuals in need. Nursing, with its focus on holistic patient care, provides an avenue for me to extend my passion for compassion and deliver care with empathy, dignity, and respect. I am dedicated to creating an environment where patients feel valued, understood, and supported throughout their healthcare journey.
As a military officer, I developed strong leadership and teamwork skills that are highly transferable to the nursing profession. Effective leadership is crucial in healthcare settings, where collaboration, coordination, and clear communication are essential for delivering optimal patient outcomes. I intend to leverage my experience as a military leader to foster a collaborative environment among healthcare professionals, ensuring cohesive teamwork and promoting a culture of excellence. By leading by example, I aspire to inspire and motivate others to provide the highest standard of care.
Advocacy lies at the heart of both military service and nursing. As a military officer, I advocated for the well-being and rights of those under my command. Similarly, in the field of nursing, I am committed to being a strong advocate for my patients. I will strive to ensure their voices are heard, their concerns addressed, and their rights protected. By empowering patients with knowledge, facilitating informed decision-making, and promoting their autonomy, I aim to promote positive healthcare experiences and outcomes.
Having served in diverse environments, including underprivileged communities and regions affected by conflict, I have witnessed the significant gaps in access to healthcare and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities. I am committed to playing a role in bridging these gaps by delivering quality healthcare to underserved populations. Through volunteer work, community outreach, and involvement in healthcare initiatives, I will strive to address healthcare disparities, promote health equity, and make a lasting impact on vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, my mission for joining the field of nursing as a former military officer is driven by a profound sense of duty, compassion, and leadership. Through compassionate care, advocacy, and a commitment to service, I aim to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and contribute to the advancement of healthcare. My experiences as a military officer have instilled in me the values of selflessness, teamwork, and resilience, which I will bring to the nursing profession. By continuing my mission of service, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional care, advocating for patients' rights, and bridging gaps in healthcare access.
