CAREER

PLANNING

CAREER DEVELOPMENT
is the planning and implementation of career
plans and can be viewed as the critical life
process involving both the individual and the
employer
Is accomplished through assessment of oneself
and ones work environment, job analysis,
education, training, job search and acquisition
- Provides individuals with a choice in career
outcome rather than leaving it to chance

Beginning a job search

the critical first step in your job search is
preparation. Know what clinical area you
are interested in and what skills you have
that may fit that area.
before graduation ask the nursing faculty
members who have worked closely with
you during clinical rotations, what skills
and abilities they perceive you have and
where they believe you to excel

Beginning a job search

once a desirable clinical area is identified,
then longer- term goals should be reviewed
to fully look at lifelong learning and
employment opportunities.
Essential to career success is
understanding yourself
upon completing this phase of selfassessment the new graduate looks at each
job as a career segment.

Locating job openings

Professional journals advertise
positions, and college placement
services and employment agencies
maintain job listings. Recruiters are
often at professional meetings. One
can ask friends, acquaintances, and
relatives if they know of openings.

Locating job openings

Bulletin boards- another place to look for job
openings in in health care agencies
themselves most will have an employment
bulletin board located near the human
resources department with a listing of RN
positions, experience needed, and the
contact person. By going directly to the
hospital or agency, you will see the available
position and qualifications needed. Also, by
going to the agency to view the potencial
jobs, you can pick up the necessary
paperwork to complete an application.

Locating job openings

Newspapers
Bulletin boards, employment telephone
lines
Job fairs
Electronic media, Internet
Search engines
Job boards
Agency and corporate sites
Media sites

Resume
is the summary of information about ones
education, employment, and professional and
personal history. It is typically a prerequisite
for an interview, because the employer uses
the resume to determine who will be
interviewed. Resumes should be printed on a
high-quality 8 1/2 by 11 inch typing paper
with a laser printer; they should never be
handwritten. The contents should be well
arranged, with major and minor headings to
facilitate reading.

TYPES OF RESUME

The chronological resume: it is the more

common type of resume. Jobs are listed in
reverse chronological order; that is the most
recent job held is listed first, the job before that
is listed next and so on. A chronological resume
is good for those with a significant employment
history. It is easier to write than other resume
formats.
The functional resume: is good tool for people
who have had multiple careers or who want to
dramatically change their career focus. Skills
and abilities are emphasized rather that
progressive job responsibilities.

Resumes should contain the following information:

Identification
Job objective
Education
Work experience
Affiliations
Honors and awards

Resume writing using action verbs, phrases with

meaning

Use meaningful phrases such as desire to

achieve, organizational ability, results
oriented, and attention to detail
Use meaningful phrases when one word does
not fully express the complete thought.
When writing a resume keep in mind that it
is not boasting to write about what you do
well

Developing an Electronic Rsum

Use an electronic rsum if you are applying to a
large company, for an IT position, or through an
online system/email or know your rsum will be
scanned by a computer.
STEP 1: in the word processing program, set
margins so that 6.5 inches of text are displayed
STEP 2: write the resume using a font in 12-point
type, such as courier 12 or times new roman 12
STEP 3: save the resume as text only file with line
breaks. Do not use the tab key. Use the spacebar

Developing an Electronic Rsum

STEP 4: open this new file in a text editor
such as Microsoft notepad
STEP 5: review the resume. Pay careful
attention to unsupported format.
STEP 6: copy and paste the resume in the
body of a test e-mail message
Step 7: when sending a resume electronically,
a cover letter should accompany the resume

COVER LETTER
the resume should be accompanied by
a cover letter stating the applicants
interest in working for the specific
agency, the special qualification and
interest the applicant brings.

COVER LETTER
The cover letter is a one-page letter that
has the purpose of getting the
prospective employer to become
interested enough to read the resume.
It presents highlights and a summary of
the critical points found on the resume.
Whenever possible, address it to a
specific person

COVER LETTER
In the first paragraph, state who you are,
what position you are applying for, how you
found out about the position, and why you are
interested in working at this particular place.
The second paragraph should summarize
your qualifications for the position you are
seeking.
In the last paragraph, repeat your interest in
the job and request an interview.

Tracking Job Leads

Organization is important component
of job-searching.
Track applications and responses.

TRACKING JOB LEADS

COMPA
NY

TELEP CONTAC RESUM

HONE
T NAME E/SENT
NUMBE
DATA
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INTERVIE THANK FOLLO

W DATE YOU
W-UP
LETTE
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Dressing for a successful interview

A registered nurse is considered a
professional, with professional dress expected
for the interview.
Wear business attire
Make-up, perfume and jewelry should be
minimal
Be sure to turn off all cellphones

 For men, a neatly tailored shirt with tie,

pants, and perhaps a sport coat would be
appropriate to wear

 For women a suit with skirt, a tailored

pantsuit, or a neat dress is appropriate.

Interview
an interview allows the employer to
determine if the applicant meets the
requirements for the position being sought,
and it allows the applicant to obtain
information about the agency.
First impressions are important. The
interviewer will quickly assess the
applicants manners and appearance. The
applicant may be questioned about
dependability, responsibility, and ability to
work with others.

Planning for the interview

Do a self- assessment
Find out about the organization
Interview questions
Rehearse questions and answers with
another person who will be honest with you
and let you know what impression you make
during your responses
Be prepared with several questions that
clearly illustrate your interest in the
organization and your willingness to become
a valued team member

Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself

Potential responses
Do not go into long list,
but have two or three
traits that are solid
Why do you want to
Describe several
work here?
attributes of the work
environment, the staff, or
the patients
What do you want to
Identify a long- term goal
be doing in five years ? and figure out how to
achieve it with
progressive
responsibilities and
achievements
What are your
Discuss experiences that
qualifications?
you have had that qualify

What are your strengths?

This is a favorite
question. Look at the job
description, what
qualities do you have
that are required? Are
you able to work under
stress, are you
organized, are you eager
to learn new skills, do
you enjoy challenges?
What would your references say? You may want to ask your
references this question.
Would they say you are
easily distracted or focused?
Are you interested in more
Most who have just
schooling?
graduated may want to say
no, but an employer wants
someone who is interested
in lifelong learning,
especially in the nursing

RESIGNING FROM A CURRENT

POSITION
A resignation letter should never leave a
bad impression on the reader, you may need
a reference from your employer in the future

EMERGING
OPPURTUNITIES
Certification- is the process by which a
nongovernmental agency or association
certifies that an individual licensed to practice
a profession that has met certain
predetermined standards specified by that
profession for practice

EMERGING
OPPORTUNITIES
Traveling nurse- this nurse usually work in 3month assignments on the same unit. The
financial charge by the traveling nurse
company to the employing hospital for the
traveler is usually very high.
-These nurses often need only the basic hospital
and unit orientation because they come with
skills applicable to their area of practice

EMERGING
OPPORTUNITIES
Medical sales/ pharmaceutical representativesthese opportunities afford a nurse a perspective into
the workings of the world of business. There are
frequently salary enhancements given with these
positions, including having a company car, going on
business trips and attending meetings, participating
in profit-sharing and stock option plans, and
meeting a variety of health care professionals.
- Registered nurses are usually seen as desirable for
these jobs because of their knowledge in
pharmacology, technology and health care systems

EMERGING
OPPORTUNITIES
Case manager- was created to help hospitals
meet demands to deliver care at lower costs,
the nurse care manager should have expert
clinical skills and knowledge of the health care
system, health care finances and legal issues.
Nurse case managers must provide care that
focuses on outcome achievement and assist in
arranging, coordinating and monitoring the
patient care services.

EMERGING
OPPORTUNITIES
Nurse entrepreneur- benefits include job
satisfaction, flexibility in choosing
opportunities, and being able to do
exactly what you want to do
Some of the downsides of
entrepreneurship include competition,
riding the highs and lows of the market,
finding the right product; and providing
for your own health insurance

Fields of specialization in nursing

Emergency and trauma nursing- Emergency and

trauma nurses are registered nurses who have
specialized training and a personality geared
toward handling chaotic situations with caring and
calm professionalism.
-Many emergency nurses hold additional
certifications in areas such as life-flight care and
pediatric nursing. Many also hold training
certificates in other areas such as injury prevention.
A high degree of stamina and an ability to quickly
integrate information into a care plan is essential for
success in this specialty area.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Pediatric nursing- For nurses who enjoy

working with infants and young children,
pediatric nursing offers many
opportunities to develop long lasting
relationships with young patients and
growing families.

-This fast-paced specialty area requires

great stamina and a personality that can
put patients and their caregivers at ease.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Oncology nursing- Nurses who specialize in
oncology work with cancer patients and their
families.
-While some oncology nurses specialize in
diagnostics and treatments, others may choose
to work with families as a health educator or
home health nurse. There are a wide range of
areas in this specialty from nuclear medicine to
palliative care.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Mental health or psychiatric nursing
-Some of these nurses prefer to work in outpatient facilities while others enjoy the long term
relationships built over time with patients in
residential facilities.
- From administering medicine to helping
patients work on other treatment goals,
psychiatric nurses provide an invaluable service to
those struggling with mental health issues.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Neonatal nursing-. Neonatal nurses not only
support the individual care plan of infants in
their charge, but also play an important role
in parent education and training.
- Because many newborns with health
challenges require ongoing medical care,
neonatal nurses provide a compassionate
bridge for parents who may at first struggle
with the medical realities of caring for a
newborn with health complications.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Cardiac nursing- Cardiac nurses receive special
training related to the heart and supporting
systems.
-They may work in special cardiac care centers
or in more general hospital settings.
-From monitoring electrocardiograms to talking
with family members regarding the patients care
plan, cardiac nurses support the health and
recovery of patients dealing with cardiac
challenges.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Forensic nursing- Forensic nurses play a unique
role in the legal system. After tending to the
immediate needs of a person involved in a crime,
the nurse will collect evidence and prepare reports
that can be used in a court of law.
-These nurses are often called upon to give
testimony in a courtroom based on their medical
findings. The special training of forensic nurses
provides invaluable support to victims of abuse,
neglect and violent crimes.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Dialysis nursing- Dialysis nurses monitor,
medicate, educate and support their patients
through every step of dialysis. They help
patients make important lifestyle choices and
changes that can help manage kidney
disease.
-These nursing professionals have an indepth understanding of kidney disease and are
specialists in offering their patients the best
care during their dialysis treatment.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Critical care nursing
-Nurses who specialize in critical care
provide support and treatment for patients
whose conditions make their overall health
particularly unstable and vulnerable to overall
deterioration or death.
- Critical care nurses ensure that patients
with actual or potentially life-threatening
conditions receive the best care possible.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Medical-surgical nursing- Assisting surgeons in
todays operating rooms and caring for patients
post-operatively means that medical-surgical
nurses need a clear understanding of the
technological advancements inherent to 21st
century surgical medicine.
- Ongoing training is essential in this specialty area,
which can have an intense environment and
exposure to consistent high stress situations. Many
nurses in this field find working with surgeons and
directly assisting in possible life-saving surgical care
plans deeply rewarding despite the challenges.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Obstetrical nursing- Obstetrical nurses assess
and implement care plans for women in all
stages of pregnancy. They play an important
role assisting in birth and caring for women
after delivery.
-Some nurses additionally seek
complementary specializations in other niche
areas such as neonatal care or labor and
delivery.

Fields of specialization in Nursing

Geriatric nursing- Working with elderly

patients requires a wide-range of knowledge
and empathy.

-Nurses in this field may further develop a

niche in other areas such as home healthcare,
psychology or health education.

Expanded roles of nurses

Advanced Practice nurse
-generally the most independent functioning
nurse. has a masters degree in nursing,
advanced education in pharmacology and
physical assessment, and certification and
expertise in specialized area of practice.

Expanded roles of nurses

Clinical Nurse Specialist
-registered nurses who typically hold a masters
degree, at minimum, along with national
certification denoting advanced knowledge and
clinical skills specific to a particular patient
population or specialized area of nursing. While
working directly with patients, they implement
treatment plans to resolve or mitigate medical
or psychiatric issues.

Expanded roles of nurses

Nursing administrator
- manages the client care and the delivery of
specific
nursing services within a
health care agency

Expanded roles of nurses

Nurse Researcher
- investigates the problems to improve
nursing care and to further define and to
expand the scope of
nursing practice

Expanded roles of nurses

Private duty nurse
- a registered nurse who provide nursing
service to patients at home or any other
setting in accordance with physician orders

Expanded roles of nurses

Rehabilitation nurse
- a nurse who specializes in assisting
persons with disabilities and chronic illnesses
to attain optimal function, health and adapt to
an altered lifestyle

Expanded roles of nurses

Military nurse
- one who provide care to military personnel
and their families

Expanded roles of nurses

Disaster nursing
- the adaptation of professional nursing
skills in recognizing and meeting the nursing,
physical,
emotional and social needs
resulting from a disaster

BALANCING PERSONAL AND

PROFESSIONAL NEEDS

Health
a state of complete physical, social and mental
well-being. And not merely an absence of
disease or infirmity

Goals for healthy people 2010

To encourage those of all ages to increase life
expectancy as well as improve their overall
quality of life
To eliminate disparities among various
pockets of the population

Indicators of healthy people

Physical activity
Overweight and obesity
Tobacco use
Substance abuse
Responsible sexual behavior
Mental health
Injury and violence
Environmental quality
Immunization
Access to health care

Areas of health
1. Physical health- encompasses nutrition as
well as exercise coupled with a balance amount
of sleep and health preventive behaviors
Exercise: walking, jogging, cycling,
swimming,
rowing, yoga, golf and
tennis, skiing, team
sports, and
dancing
: improves cardiovascular function
by
lowering cholesterol and blood
pressure and
strengthening heart
muscle
: boosts immune response to disease
: improves flexibility and endurance
and
decreases fat deposition

 Nutrition: calculation of BMI (body mass index) and

DBW (desired body weight)
Sleep: make sleep a priority; do not use caffeine as
a stimulant or alcohol as a tool to fall asleep, try
drinking warm milk or decaffeinated tea before
bedtime, reserve your bed only for sleeping.
: Deleterious effects of sleep deprivation:
overeating,
increased susceptibility to viral
infections, difficulty
in concentrating and
memorizing

Assessment of sleep deprivation:

do you ever fall asleep at work?

is it difficult to get out of bed in the morning?
Are you tired or irritable at work?
Do you have trouble concentrating or
remembering things at work?
Do you ever doze off to sleep on your drive
home from work?

AREAS OF HEALTH
2. Intellectual health- is the second element of
health and encompasses those activities that
maintain intellectual curiosity
Intellectual acuity: ways to maintain
intellectual acuity is to have hobbies apart
from nursing and establish a financial
portfolio
Personal financial planning: identify your
annual salary then think about the
percentage of your salary which you want
to save

AREAS OF HEALTH
3. Emotional health- is the third
element of health
Anger: due to unreasonable workload,
mismanagement of patients, lack of
administrative support, demeaning
treatment by other health care providers.

Ways to cope with anger

when confronted by an angry person
think the problem through rationally
and respond in a calm manner.
Have time for yourself

 Humor: enhances the immune system

and boosts the cardiovascular and
respiratory systems

Ways to make you laugh

read a humorous book;
surround yourself with people who can
make you laugh;
watch a funny television program or
movie

 Stress: is an emotional strain caused

by over fatigue or overthinking

Stress management

meditate;
think peaceful thought;
see things that other might;
forgive your mistakes;
do not procrastinate;
set realistic goals;
do a good deed;
vary your routine;
appreciate what you have;
do relaxation exercises;
talk about your worries;
be affectionate

STRESS MANAGEMENT

say a prayer;
expect to be successful;
read;
sing a song;
forgive and forget;
take a hot bath;
call an old friend;
let go of the need to be perfect

AREAS OF HEALTH
4. Professional health- is the fourth element of
health
Ways to maintain professional health: seek
out others within the health care field; keep in
touch with some of your favorite faculty
members; join at least one professional
organization; read as often as possible.

: occupational hazards common among

nurses: infectious agents; environmental
agents; physical agents; chemical agents

AREAS OF HEALTH
5. Social health- is another significant element
of health
6. Spiritual health- the last element of health. It
is the ability to find strength from within

Nursing trends and issues 2015

Massive Increase in Online Training

Emphasis on Art Therapy
Advocacy for Music Therapy
Shortage of Experienced Nurses
An Aging Nursing Workforce That is Putting
Off Retirement
The Scope of Medicine that Nurses are Able
to Practice is Widening
Steady Growth in the Number of Nurse
Practitioners

Nursing trends and issues 2015

More Nurses Are More Highly Educated- 9.
Increased Specialization Among Nurses
A Revised Ethical Code for Nurses Was
Released last 2015
Nursing School Faculty Shortages
Nurses Need Technological Expertise More
than Ever
Increased Focus on Patient
Nurses Taking Charge of Patient Education