Discussion: Examining Nursing Specialties NURS 6003 Discussion: Examining Nursing Specialties NURS 6003

Discussion: Examining Nursing Specialties NURS 6003 Discussion: Examining Nursing Specialties NURS 6003

Making decisions that include investing our time, money, and mind can often be hard ones that include weighing a vast number of factors. I always knew that I wanted to pursue a graduate degree and become a nurse practitioner, but I was not exactly sure what specialty. At one point I wanted to pursue a degree as a family nurse practitioner, but I was still not so certain. I continued my journey in nursing while working at a Level I Trauma Center in the Emergency Department (ED). I then thought that maybe I should pursue a degree in acute care. All these thoughts raced through my mind, but then I finally found psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. In the ED there are many patients that come in with mental illness. There are many different diagnosis, levels of acuity, and circumstances. I knew that this would be something I enjoyed as I often took care of these patients, but I also noted how often some of the healthcare team would judge these patients. I knew that I had the patience and passion to have a positive impact in the field and hopefully make a difference in the way care is provided. When I made the decision to pursue a degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, there were many factors to consider. I considered the time it would take to complete the program, the cost of an accredited program, the resources a program would provide, the time away from my family, time management, and what the job market looked like. I also considered if it would be good for me stress wise and how it would impact my family. I had to have answers to these questions for me to take the leap and then I finally did, I am glad. I am also glad that I waited and developed a good foundation over the years as well as experience. I will be better able to care for my patients this way and it will be good for me as well as a provider.

          I think this program will prepare me professionally in providing me with the resources I need to be a good nurse practitioner. It will provide me with the foundation to provide excellent care and go out into the work field

Discussion Examining Nursing Specialties NURS 6003

ready. Echevarria (2018) explains that being a part of a professional nursing organization also plays a major role in our exposure and preparation to reach our goals. Being a part of a professional organization allows us to immerse ourselves into the specialty further and offers a variety of resources for us to take part in. I belong to several professional nursing associations that grant me access to journals, networking, and conferences. American Psychiatric Nurses Association (n.d.) provides resources for anyone interested in psychiatric mental health nursing, they also serve as a resource during education and work. This is a great resource for us to reach our academic and professional goals. Having resources, networking, and a strong support are all factors that contribute to our success.

References

American Psychiatric Nurses Association. (n.d.). Why join. https://www.apna.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3680