As an early career nurse, I know we are the future of the nursing profession, and that can feel daunting. Nursing students ask me all the time, “Okay, so what’s it really going to be like? What advice can you share?” Because everyone’s career path and experiences are different, it is difficult to give blanket recommendations; however, here are some universal truths I can share:
- Get good shoes; you won’t regret what you spend on them.
- Take care of yourself; your mind and body can’t function if you don’t give back to it.
- Develop a strong moral foundation and work every day to stand by it.
When I mention a strong moral foundation, what I’m really talking about is integrity—having it and maintaining it. Adhere to strong moral principles. Behave ethically and do the right thing, even behind closed doors.
My fellow nurses, I don’t doubt that you have integrity. I imagine that most people who go into our profession have a strong moral compass.
Now, maintaining integrity with the natural stressors of our jobs? That’s always going to be a work in progress.
I know. I hear the question forming in your mind.
“So how do I DO that?”
I’m new to this, too, but I have a few thoughts for you:
- Know your limitations and participate in ongoing education and professional development. Think about the things you need to work on, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Be conscious of when to say no or ask for help to avoid risk to yourself and/or your patients. Safety always comes first!
When I first started my nursing internship year, I was a bit nervous and felt insecure because I was lacking practice from the pandemic. I’ve always been very aware of my limitations, and the second I don’t feel entirely safe about doing something, I ask for help. Conversely, if someone needs help and you have the tools and are available, don’t hesitate to give back! The one who teaches, learns twice.
Speaking of learning, some days it seems like things in healthcare change by the hour. Consider participating in continuing education courses, attending conferences and seminars, and pursuing advanced degrees or certifications. My volunteer roles, with both Sigma and several different associations, have taken me around the world to speak at conferences. Staying informed and up to date demonstrates your commitment to providing the highest level of care possible and upholding your ethical and professional standards.
- Be honest and transparent. These are essential components of integrity. Show your patients and staff that you are dependable and trustworthy. Our patients trust us to provide them with accurate information about their health and treatment. You may have to deliver tough news, but that showcases your commitment to ethics.
Also, sometimes transparency means disclosing your own errors or mistakes. No one is perfect! Be humble and own your actions and their consequences.
- Respect yourself and others. Stay true to yourself and prioritize your time and mental health. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries to take care of yourself, and definitely extend that same grace for other’s boundaries and priorities.
To be honest, I have so many activities, and sometimes I feel overwhelmed and need to rest. I used to feel terrible about saying no to something I was invited to or asked to do. Now I know that I need to rest in order to be well. Self-care is never selfish—it’s necessary to maintain the best version of me.
- Encourage communication. We can’t earn the respect of the people around us if we don’t listen and communicate with them. Effective communication enables us to understand each other’s needs and concerns, provide accurate information, and establish trust. It creates an environment where everyone feels heard and respected.
One time I had a patient with stage IV colon cancer who other nurses refused to care for because they said he was rude. As I got to know him, I learned that he wasn’t rude or grumpy—he was just sad and carrying his mourning in his own pace. We became good friends, and I even got to celebrate his birthday at the hospital with his family.
- Value other people's honesty. Nursing managers or supervisors can make observations about your practice sometimes. If someone opens up to you, and you trust the feedback is coming from a place of value and respect, appreciate their honesty and thank them for sharing their thoughts with you. While receiving constructive criticism can sometimes make you feel defensive, try to give yourself time and space to digest the feedback. Talk through it with someone else you trust to gather their perspective. Use these comments to improve. You may find that you are a better nurse and a better person for it.
By individually maintaining integrity, you will not only earn the trust and respect of the people you care for, but also inspire your colleagues and contribute to the advancement of the nursing profession. I look forward to the future of nursing that you will help create!
Aimée Giselle Horcasitas-Tovar, BSN, RN, is an oncology nurse at a private chemotherapy infusion center in Chihuahua, Mexico and serves as a Sigma UN Youth Representative. She is a member of Sigma’s Tau Alpha Chapter.