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How do I know what nursing specialty is right for me when applying for jobs?

I am a junior in college, that is graduating this spring and this thought keeps coming to mind. I have a few different interests, but they are on opposite ends of the spectrum and I don’t know what will be the best for me. I have interest in pediatrics, medical intestive care, surgical intensive care, and labor/ delivery.

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Rithika’s Answer

Hi Amy!

If you can volunteer at a nearby hospital or shadow doctors in various specialties, you'll gain insight into their daily work. This experience can help you discover what you enjoy and what might not be for you!
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Cindy’s Answer

Hi Amy!

To find out what suits you best, try exploring different areas. Before I finished nursing school, I volunteered in various hospital departments and worked at an orthopedic clinic. This exposure helped me understand different healthcare fields. I also watched medical shows on TV to get familiar with various specialties when I wasn't studying.

You can start by exploring resources on YouTube. Search for terms like oncology, GI, pediatrics, rehab nursing, skilled nursing, home healthcare nursing, OR nursing, neurology, cardiac, ICU, Emergency, and Med Surg. See which ones excite/inspire you the most!

Remember, everyone is different, and what works for one person might not for another. The great thing about being an RN is the variety of choices available!

Good luck with your career journey!
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Heather’s Answer

Job shadowing is a great way to see what nursing is like in different areas. Nursing offers many paths, so if one area doesn't suit you, you can switch to another role. If you like these certain areas, try interviewing at a hospital that has all those units. Ask if they let you transfer to a different department if the one you start in isn't right for you after 6 months to a year. Many big hospitals have good programs and let new hires move to different departments to keep their staff.

Heather recommends the following next steps:

Job Shadow in areas of interest
Make pro/cons list of each area
Search for jobs at facilities that have several departments that interest you
Search for facilities that have nurse extern programs that help development nurses in the best fit area
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