How Nurses Are Finding Purpose in Second Careers

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Nursing is a beautiful but demanding profession that offers a sense of purpose for people keen on making an impact and saving lives. While some discover this passion early, many might consider nursing as a second career after their degree. 

This can be very strenuous, especially when it comes to the physical exhaustion, long shifts, and emotional toll, which can push even the most passionate nurses to consider a change. However, there are exciting thrills and experiences when you keep going. Whether you are looking to start a new career path or explore some of the best 2nd careers for nurses, this article will guide you through the top opportunities available.

The High Demand for Nurses in the Healthcare Sector

Nurses are one of the most highly sought-after professions due to the massive increase in aging adults, chronic illnesses, and retiring nurses. Older adults often need intensive care, which means more nurses are needed to help manage long-term conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. 

Aside from that, the rapid rise of illnesses like obesity, mental disorders and high blood pressure among young and middle-aged citizens prioritizes their service in the health care sector. Contrary to the myth that medical doctors can fill nurses' shoes, Nursing isn’t just about bedside care anymore, as they are now in demand for roles in research, telehealth, education, case management, and public health.

Clinic Jobs to Explore as Second Careers for Nurses

Below are opportunities that are in demand for nurses to explore in their career path:

1. Legal nurse consultant: Professional law firms and companies often hire experienced Nurses to be consultants on cases that demand their expertise. This can either be a full-time or part-time role where nurses come in to review medical records, explain healthcare procedures and assist in building legal arguments.
2. Health and wellness coach: Many consider this role to be similar to a gym or yoga instructor job description; however, it is a trusted advisor position that needs a professional with a clinical background who can work with clients to build wellness plans, manage chronic conditions, and improve lifestyle habits.
3. Healthcare administrator: These are positions filled by nurses with 20 to 25 years of experience working full-time in the health care sector, as they can be very demanding with hospital workflows, patient needs, and staff management.
4. Nurse educators: Nurse educators are often hired by non-governmental organisations and academic bodies. They teach upcoming nurses, biomedical scientists, and midwives in college or clinical settings to serve as mentors and develop training programs.
5. Occupational health nurse: They are filled mostly with nurses who practice in private sectors or non-hospital settings like schools, factories, and sporting activities. With the high number of people participating in sports, this position is expected to be a gold mine in the future.

Endnote

Career opportunities are numerous and very exciting, especially now that these positions are more centred on helping people both within and outside the health care sector. While an intensive nursing background provides a foundation to fill these roles, however, with the right work ethic, discipline, and problem-solving mindset, anyone willing to explore second careers in nursing is expected to thrive.