1A. A) The occupation I plan to enter is "NURSING.

" I have chosen this career because I am deeply

passionate about healthcare and helping others. Nursing allows me to significantly impact people's lives
during times of vulnerability and need. Moreover, the diverse and dynamic nature of the nursing
profession, along with its potential for growth and specialization, aligns perfectly with my long-term
career aspirations.

B. Several soft skills are necessary for success in the occupation of Nursing. Effective communication is
vital to convey critical information to patients, their families, and the healthcare team, fostering trust
and understanding. Empathy is crucial for building meaningful connections with patients, providing
compassionate care, and addressing their emotional needs. Critical thinking enables nurses to make
decisions in complex situations, ensuring patient safety and effective care. Adaptability allows nurses to
navigate the rapidly changing healthcare environment, while attention to detail ensures precision in
medication administration and documentation. Teamwork and time management skills are essential for
collaborating with other healthcare professionals and efficiently managing multiple tasks. Stress
management is critical in nursing to maintain mental and emotional well-being amid the profession's
demands. These soft skills collectively contribute to the high-quality, patient-centered care that defines
a successful nursing career.

2A. To begin a career in nursing, I will need to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
At Prince George Community College, I will start by completing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
program and then transfer to a university to complete the remaining requirements for a BSN degree.
The ADN program typically takes two years to complete, while the BSN program takes two more years.
The nursing program will include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. I will study
anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology, and nursing theory. Clinical
experience will involve hands-on training in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing
homes, and community health centers. Before starting the nursing program, I must complete
prerequisite courses, which vary depending on the institution. Additionally, I must pass a background
check and meet immunization requirements.

2B. There are several options to pay for my nursing education, including loans, grants, scholarships, and
personal savings. Here are some steps I will take to secure funding:

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): This form determines my
eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. I will Submit
the FAFSA as soon as possible, as some aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

2. Apply for state financial aid: Many states offer grants and scholarships for nursing students.
Check with my state's education department or higher education agency for information on
available programs and application procedures.

3. Grants: I will consider applying for federal grants, like the Pell Grant, which is based on financial
need and does not need to be repaid.

4. Scholarships: I will also seek scholarships specifically for nursing students. These can be from
institutions, private organizations, or nursing associations.

5. Cash: I will pay for my education using your funds.

2C). One specific private scholarship for nursing students that I've come across is the "Nurses
Educational Funds, Inc. (NEF) Scholarship" (Writers, 2023) NEF is a non-profit organization that
generously offers scholarships to nursing students like me pursuing advanced nursing degrees. It's
important to note that eligibility criteria for this scholarship may involve demonstrating academic
excellence and a solid commitment to the nursing profession (Writers, 2023)

2D) To secure the Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. Scholarship or any other private scholarship, I plan to
follow these steps:

1. I will visit the NEF website or the specific scholarship provider's website to find comprehensive
information about the scholarship, including application details and deadlines.

2. Next, I will carefully review the eligibility criteria to ensure I meet all the requirements. This will
include assessing my academic qualifications and confirming my dedication to the nursing field.

3. I'll diligently prepare my scholarship application, including all necessary documents as specified
by the scholarship provider. This typically includes academic transcripts, letters of
recommendation, a well-crafted personal statement, and any other documents that may be
required.

4. To meet the application deadline, I will submit my scholarship application well in advance. This
will ensure that my submission is complete and on time.

5. I'll keep a vigilant eye on scholarship notifications and be ready to fulfill additional requirements,
such as participating in interviews or providing follow-up documentation.

6. If I am awarded the scholarship, I will follow the provider's instructions meticulously to claim the
funds and fulfill any obligations or responsibilities associated with the award. This will include
adhering to the scholarship provider's reporting or acknowledgment requirements.

3. In the realm of healthcare, three related occupations that stand out are Physician Assistant (PA),
Nurse Practitioner (NP), and Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT). Physician Assistants collaborate
closely with physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions requiring advanced training. Nurse
Practitioners, on the other hand, are advanced practice nurses specializing in primary and specialty care,
offering a balance between nursing and medicine. Medical Laboratory Technicians play a crucial role in
diagnostics by analyzing laboratory tests. As a prospective nurse, my role will encompass holistic patient
care, education, and advocacy, focusing on hands-on patient interaction. In terms of specialization
within nursing, the options are vast, ranging from pediatric and gerontology nursing to critical care and
psychiatric-mental health nursing. These specialties allow nurses to tailor their careers to their unique
interests and passions while making impactful contributions to healthcare.

4. In my chosen Registered Nursing (RN) career, the tasks performed are diverse and can vary depending
on the healthcare setting and specialization. These tasks include patient assessment, medication
administration, patient care, education, collaboration with healthcare professionals, documentation,
and advocacy.

Patient Assessment: RNs assess patients' physical and emotional conditions, record medical histories,
and gather vital signs.
Medication Administration: This involves administering medications, including injections, intravenous
fluids, and oral drugs, while closely monitoring for side effects and adverse reactions.

Patient Care: RNs provide direct patient care, which includes tasks like wound care, catheter insertion,
and assisting with daily activities such as bathing and dressing.

Patient Education: Educating patients and their families about their conditions, medications, and self-
care techniques is a crucial part of the role.

Collaboration: RNs collaborate with physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals
to develop and implement care plans tailored to each patient's needs.

Documentation: Accurate and timely record-keeping of patient information and treatment plans is
essential for quality care.

Advocacy: Advocating for patients' needs and rights within the healthcare system is an important
responsibility.

In addition to these tasks, RNs use various equipment and tools, including stethoscopes for listening to
heart and lung sounds, blood pressure monitors, IV pumps for administering intravenous medications,
electronic health records (EHR) systems for documentation, and wound care supplies such as dressings,
sterile gloves, and antiseptic solutions.

A typical day for an RN often involves working shifts that can be 8, 10, or 12 hours long. The day begins
with receiving patient assignments and gathering necessary equipment. RNs conduct patient
assessments, administer medications, and provide care based on the care plan. They may assist with
procedures, monitor patients' conditions, and communicate with the healthcare team. Patient
education is a significant part of the day, ensuring patients understand their treatment plans.
Throughout the day, RNs document patient information in the EHR system. The work can be physically
demanding, involving lifting and moving patients. RNs also offer emotional support to patients and their
families.

Based on a current job posting for a Registered Nurse I position at the Colorado Mental Health Hospital
in Fort Logan (Colorado Department of Human Services, 2023), the necessary skill levels and
responsibilities include possessing a valid Registered Nurse License from the State of Colorado (DORA)
and having 1 year of full-time professional nursing experience as a preferred qualification.
Responsibilities include providing nursing care to patients with complex mental health illnesses,
developing and implementing individualized nursing care plans, collaborating with interdisciplinary
teams on treatment plans, administering prescribed medications and treatments, monitoring and
documenting patient progress, educating patients and families on mental health conditions and
treatment plans, and ensuring compliance with hospital policies and regulatory standards.

5A. A) In my chosen career of Nursing, the job can be performed in various healthcare settings,
including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and even home healthcare. Depending on specialization and
role, RNs can also work in government agencies, schools, or research institutions.
5B) The working conditions for RNs primarily involve indoor settings within healthcare facilities.
Typically, RNs work in well-lit, temperature-controlled environments. The daily and weekly time
schedules vary based on the position and facility. RNs may work shifts ranging from 8 to 12 hours, and
they often work weekends and holidays due to the 24/7 nature of healthcare. While the job is primarily
indoors, RNs may need to travel within a hospital or healthcare campus to attend to patients in different
units or departments.

Regarding health hazards, RNs may be exposed to infectious diseases, so adhering to proper infection
control protocols is essential. Additionally, the job can be physically demanding, requiring lifting and
moving patients, leading to musculoskeletal strain if not done correctly. Stressful responsibilities can
include dealing with critical patient conditions, high patient volumes, and the need for quick decision-
making.

As for geographical location, RNs are employed in healthcare facilities across the country, including
urban and rural areas. The work environment can vary from a busy urban hospital to a quieter rural
clinic. Overall, the work environment of an RN is fast-paced, dynamic, and focused on providing high-
quality patient care while adapting to the unique needs of each healthcare setting and patient
population.

6. the projected earnings for Registered Nurses (RNs) in the USA can vary based on geographic location.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for RNs in May 2022 was
$81,220 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). However, this figure can differ significantly depending on
the state and city where one works.

Here's a general overview of beginning and average expected incomes for RNs in different geographic
regions:

1. High-Paying States: States like California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Alaska typically
offer higher salaries for RNs (Nursa.com, 2023; Teach.com, 2019). RNs often start with salaries
well above the national average in these states, and experienced RNs can earn even more
substantial incomes.

2. Mid-Range States: States in the middle range include Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Arizona. RNs in
these states can expect salaries close to the national median.

3. Lower-Paying States: States in the South and Midwest, such as Mississippi, South Dakota, and
Arkansas, generally offer lower salaries for RNs (Dyrda, 2022). Beginning incomes in these states
may be closer to the national median, and experienced RNs might see insignificant income
growth.

Non-monetary rewards and satisfactions in the nursing profession are substantial:

1. Job Satisfaction: RNs often report high levels of job satisfaction due to the opportunity to
impact patients' lives and contribute to their well-being (Teach.com, 2019).

2. Career Advancement: Nursing offers a clear career path with opportunities to specialize in
various areas such as pediatrics, critical care, or oncology, providing personal and professional
growth (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).
 3. .

4. Flexibility: Many RNs can choose from various work settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools,
and even telehealth, allowing for flexibility in work environments (U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics, 2022).

5. Emotional Rewards: Providing care and support to patients and their families during challenging
times can be emotionally rewarding (Teach.com, 2019).

7. To enhance my salary as a Registered Nurse (RN), there are several avenues I can explore. First and
foremost, pursuing advanced education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or even a Master
of Science in Nursing (MSN), can open doors to higher-paying positions and career advancement.
Specialization is another viable option, as becoming certified or specialized in a particular nursing area,
like critical care or neonatal nursing, often translates to higher earning potential due to the specialized
skills required.

Experience is a crucial factor in salary growth. Accumulating more years in the field can lead to access to
higher-paying roles with increased responsibilities. Obtaining certifications in areas such as Advanced
Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) can bolster my RN value and
potentially result in higher compensation.

Additionally, considering non-standard shifts, like nights, weekends, or holidays, can be financially
rewarding, as these times typically come with higher pay rates due to the increased demand for staffing.
Geographic location plays a significant role in salary variations, so relocating to areas with a higher cost
of living or greater demand for nurses can yield higher salaries.

Negotiation skills are essential when applying for new positions or seeking raises, as effective
negotiation can lead to higher salary offers. Working part-time or per diem alongside a full-time position
is another option to boost overall income. Transitioning into nurse leadership roles, such as charge
nurse or nurse manager, is often accompanied by higher salaries and increased responsibilities.

Due to competitive salaries and benefits, exploring government or research nursing opportunities can be
financially rewarding. Joining a nursing union may provide opportunities for salary negotiations and job
protection. Some healthcare facilities offer relocation bonuses as incentives for nurses willing to move
for work. Continuing education is also valuable, as staying updated on the latest medical advancements
can lead to higher-paying roles.

Lastly, nurses can consider side work or per diem positions to supplement income, although balancing
these commitments is crucial to prevent burnout.

8. The outlook for employment in the nursing career is positive, with a projected growth of 6% from
2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook
(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023; Ghani, 2023). This growth is expected to account for an estimated
increase of 276,800 jobs in the field (Grand Canyon University(GCU), 2022). Many of these job openings
will be created when currently practicing RNs retire or transition to different careers (GCU,2022)

However, there is expected to be a sharper demand for qualified nurses to care for the aging population
and those with chronic health conditions (Ghani, 2023; Berg, 2023; GCU,2022). The BLS expects even
more robust growth for nurses pursuing the advanced academic qualifications that enable them to
become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) (GCU,2022). The projected number of annual
openings for registered nurses is more than 438,000 new RN jobs by the year 2026, which is a 15% jump
from employment opportunities in 2016(Nursing Job Outlook,2020). This projected growth of RN job
openings is also more than double the national average for job growth across all occupations, which
currently stands at 7%(Nursing Job Outlook,2020). Future changes expected in the nursing career field
include technological advancements and expanding responsibilities(Nursing Job Outlook,2020).
Opportunities for professional growth in nursing include promotions and leadership opportunities (U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Additional education may be needed to pursue advanced practice
nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife (U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics, 2023). The timeframe to complete any additional education varies depending on the program
and level of education pursued. A current job posting for a Registered Nurse I position at the Colorado
Mental Health Hospital in Fort Logan lists the following possibilities for advancement:

 Registered Nurse II

 Charge Nurse

 Nurse Manager

 Nurse Educator

Additional education may be required for some of these positions, such as a Bachelor of Science in
Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). The
timeframe to complete a BSN program is typically 2-4 years, while an MSN program can take 2-3 years
to complete ( U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023).

9. Diversity has been a prominent issue in nursing, with ongoing efforts to enhance representation from
various backgrounds. The statistics show that there have been disparities in racial and ethnic diversity
among nurses. Historically, the nursing profession has been predominantly composed of individuals
from White/Caucasian backgrounds. According to a 2020 survey conducted by the National Council of
State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and The Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers, 81% of RNs
identified as White or Caucasian, 9.9% of RNs are Black or African American, and 16.8% of RNs come
from minority backgrounds(Diversity in Nursing: Benefits and Resources, 2022). This indicates a
significant underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in the field.

The statistics reveal that White/Caucasian nurses comprise most of the nursing workforce, accounting
for approximately 80.6% of RNs in the United States(Diversity in Nursing: Benefits and Resources, 2022).
This dominance of one racial group has highlighted the need for increased diversity and inclusion in
nursing.

Diversity in nursing is crucial not only for workforce representation but also for improving patient care.
Studies have shown that a more diverse nursing workforce, encompassing various demographic factors,
can lead to better patient outcomes and experiences. It enhances cultural competence and the ability to
address the unique healthcare needs of diverse patient populations.

Nursing organizations, educational institutions, and policymakers are actively working to address these
diversity issues. Initiatives focus on recruiting and retaining nurses from underrepresented backgrounds,
providing scholarships and support programs, and promoting inclusivity.
While progress has been made to increase diversity in nursing, there is still work to ensure that the
nursing workforce more accurately reflects the diverse patient populations it serves. Efforts to enhance
diversity in nursing contribute to improved healthcare equity and access for all individuals(Enhancing
Diversity in the Nursing Workforce, 2023)

10. In my nursing career, I have set a SMART goal to become a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
within the next five years. To attain this goal, I will embark on a journey that involves obtaining a Master
of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree specializing in family nursing and successfully passing the national
certification exam. This goal adheres to the SMART criteria, as it is Specific, Measurable, Achievable,
Relevant, and Time-bound.

I made two significant discoveries related to the nursing profession during my research. Firstly, the
demand for nurses, particularly advanced practice nurses such as FNPs, is rising. This heightened
demand is attributed to an aging population, increased healthcare requirements, and ongoing
healthcare reforms. Consequently, this underscores the long-term job security and growth opportunities
in nursing.

Secondly, I learned about the crucial role of diversity and inclusion within nursing. Healthcare
organizations increasingly recognize the necessity of fostering a diverse nursing workforce to deliver
culturally competent care. This emphasizes the importance of nurturing an inclusive and diverse nursing
community.

In light of my research findings, several aspects require consideration when defining my personal goals
within the nursing profession:

Continuous Learning: Nursing is a dynamic field marked by ever-evolving practices and technologies. To
excel in my career, I must embrace the concept of lifelong learning and remain updated with the latest
advancements in healthcare.

Cultural Competence: Recognizing the significance of diversity in nursing, I aim to enhance my cultural
competence. This entails understanding and respecting patients' diverse backgrounds and perspectives
to deliver inclusive and patient-centered care.

Networking: Establishing a professional network within the nursing community can open doors to
opportunities for mentorship, career advancement, and collaborative ventures. Therefore, I must
actively engage with fellow nurses, educators, and healthcare professionals.

Work-Life Balance: Nursing can be demanding, necessitating a balance between work and personal life
for long-term satisfaction and well-being. Hence, I should establish personal goals to ensure a healthy
work-life equilibrium throughout my nursing career.

By setting a SMART goal and considering these supplementary insights, I am better equipped to pursue a
rewarding and successful career in nursing while addressing the evolving demands of the profession.
Colorado Department of Human Services. (2023, May 22). Job Bulletin. Www.governmentjobs.com.
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado/jobs/newprint/4014515

Ghani, S. (2023, March 9). Nursing Jobs Outlook and Salaries by State. Indeed Career Guide.
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/nursing-jobs-outlook