2 answers
Cheyenne
Student
Rockwood, Michigan
1
Question
Asked
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What is the most difficult thing about being a nurse ?
I am currently a senior in high school and plan to attend Wayne State University for nursing. After my cancer diagnosis and treatment, I developed a deeper understanding of the importance of nurses, and I want to give others the same level of kindness and care that I was given during my most challenging moments. However, I also observed that it can be a very demanding job and was curious to know what the hardest part of a nursing career is.
Thank you in advance for any and all advice/input!
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2 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1463
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Cheyenne!
First off, I just want to say how inspiring it is that you’ve turned your own experience into motivation to help others. Honestly, nurses make such a huge difference, and your perspective is going to bring so much empathy and care to your future patients.
Now, about the hardest part of being a nurse, well, it’s definitely a challenging career, but that’s also what makes it so rewarding. And, to be honest, each challenging path differs for each person and we learn to navigate them along the way. But, One of the toughest things is the emotional toll. You’re going to experience some heartbreaking moments, patients passing away, families struggling, seeing people at their worst. It can be heavy on your heart, especially when you form bonds with your patients. That emotional strain can be tough to handle, and sometimes, it can take a toll on your mental health if you don't find ways to process it. Now, Physically, it’s draining too. Nurses are constantly on their feet, running from one patient to the next. Long shifts, especially in critical care settings, can leave you exhausted. You’ll have to juggle a lot of tasks at once, and it’s a fast-paced environment. You don’t always have the luxury of sitting down or taking a breather, so it can really test your endurance.
There’s also the stress of decision-making. You’re often in situations where you have to make quick decisions that can affect someone's health—sometimes even life or death. It can be a lot of pressure, but over time, you’ll get better at managing that stress. And sometimes, you won’t have the resources you need, which can feel frustrating, but that’s where your critical thinking and problem-solving skills really come into play.
Lastly, nurses don’t always get the recognition they deserve. The hard work you put in behind the scenes doesn’t always get the spotlight. But trust me, the moments where you make a real impact, whether it’s comforting a patient, helping a family understand something, or being the calm in a chaotic situation—that’s where you’ll find the true fulfillment. I remember working as a nurse and I didn't really get much of that but I still cant forget the gratitude my patients came to give me for just a small painless dose or a small care, it truly warmed my heart.
At the end of the day, it’s a tough job, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The difference you can make in someone’s life, especially given your own experience, is immeasurable. So while it’s demanding, if you’re passionate about caring for others like you are, you’re going to shine in this field. And, since you have been through a lot trust me you will do so much amazing and I truly cant wait to see you crush it.
Stay strong, and keep pushing forward! You’ve got this Cheyenne, and if you need anything at all along the way you know where to find me. 💪
First off, I just want to say how inspiring it is that you’ve turned your own experience into motivation to help others. Honestly, nurses make such a huge difference, and your perspective is going to bring so much empathy and care to your future patients.
Now, about the hardest part of being a nurse, well, it’s definitely a challenging career, but that’s also what makes it so rewarding. And, to be honest, each challenging path differs for each person and we learn to navigate them along the way. But, One of the toughest things is the emotional toll. You’re going to experience some heartbreaking moments, patients passing away, families struggling, seeing people at their worst. It can be heavy on your heart, especially when you form bonds with your patients. That emotional strain can be tough to handle, and sometimes, it can take a toll on your mental health if you don't find ways to process it. Now, Physically, it’s draining too. Nurses are constantly on their feet, running from one patient to the next. Long shifts, especially in critical care settings, can leave you exhausted. You’ll have to juggle a lot of tasks at once, and it’s a fast-paced environment. You don’t always have the luxury of sitting down or taking a breather, so it can really test your endurance.
There’s also the stress of decision-making. You’re often in situations where you have to make quick decisions that can affect someone's health—sometimes even life or death. It can be a lot of pressure, but over time, you’ll get better at managing that stress. And sometimes, you won’t have the resources you need, which can feel frustrating, but that’s where your critical thinking and problem-solving skills really come into play.
Lastly, nurses don’t always get the recognition they deserve. The hard work you put in behind the scenes doesn’t always get the spotlight. But trust me, the moments where you make a real impact, whether it’s comforting a patient, helping a family understand something, or being the calm in a chaotic situation—that’s where you’ll find the true fulfillment. I remember working as a nurse and I didn't really get much of that but I still cant forget the gratitude my patients came to give me for just a small painless dose or a small care, it truly warmed my heart.
At the end of the day, it’s a tough job, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The difference you can make in someone’s life, especially given your own experience, is immeasurable. So while it’s demanding, if you’re passionate about caring for others like you are, you’re going to shine in this field. And, since you have been through a lot trust me you will do so much amazing and I truly cant wait to see you crush it.
Stay strong, and keep pushing forward! You’ve got this Cheyenne, and if you need anything at all along the way you know where to find me. 💪
Chiquria Willis
Loan Processor - Rocket Mortgage
94
Answers
Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Updated
Chiquria’s Answer
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey and passion for nursing—I’m sure your experiences will help you become a caring and dedicated nurse. Nursing is a rewarding path, even though it has its tough moments. Here’s a look at some of the challenges nurses face:
Challenges of Being a Nurse
Physical and Emotional Demands
Nurses often work long hours, sometimes 12 hours or more, which can be tiring.
The job can be emotionally intense, especially when caring for very sick or dying patients and supporting their families. Seeing suffering and loss is hard, and handling it emotionally requires strength and support.
High Stress and Fast-Paced Environment
Nurses need to make quick decisions and handle many tasks at once, often under pressure.
Emergencies and unexpected situations can happen anytime, needing calm, quick actions.
Workload and Staffing Challenges
Sometimes nurses have many patients and not enough staff, leading to heavy workloads and possible burnout.
Balancing paperwork with patient care can be tough.
Shift Work and Irregular Hours
Nurses often work nights, weekends, and holidays, which can affect sleep and social/family life.
Dealing with Difficult Patients or Families
Nurses often meet people who are scared, frustrated, or in pain. Handling these emotions professionally while giving care is challenging.
Why Nursing is Still Worth It
Despite these challenges, nurses have the amazing chance to make a real difference in people’s lives every day. Your kindness, skills, and presence can deeply affect patients and families, especially during tough times—just as you have experienced.
Tips for Managing Challenges
Build strong support networks with colleagues, friends, and family.
Take care of yourself—your physical health, mental well-being, and relaxation time are important.
Find mentors and use school and workplace resources for guidance and support.
Your desire to give caring help is a strong foundation—your future patients will be fortunate to have you on their side!
Challenges of Being a Nurse
Physical and Emotional Demands
Nurses often work long hours, sometimes 12 hours or more, which can be tiring.
The job can be emotionally intense, especially when caring for very sick or dying patients and supporting their families. Seeing suffering and loss is hard, and handling it emotionally requires strength and support.
High Stress and Fast-Paced Environment
Nurses need to make quick decisions and handle many tasks at once, often under pressure.
Emergencies and unexpected situations can happen anytime, needing calm, quick actions.
Workload and Staffing Challenges
Sometimes nurses have many patients and not enough staff, leading to heavy workloads and possible burnout.
Balancing paperwork with patient care can be tough.
Shift Work and Irregular Hours
Nurses often work nights, weekends, and holidays, which can affect sleep and social/family life.
Dealing with Difficult Patients or Families
Nurses often meet people who are scared, frustrated, or in pain. Handling these emotions professionally while giving care is challenging.
Why Nursing is Still Worth It
Despite these challenges, nurses have the amazing chance to make a real difference in people’s lives every day. Your kindness, skills, and presence can deeply affect patients and families, especially during tough times—just as you have experienced.
Tips for Managing Challenges
Build strong support networks with colleagues, friends, and family.
Take care of yourself—your physical health, mental well-being, and relaxation time are important.
Find mentors and use school and workplace resources for guidance and support.
Your desire to give caring help is a strong foundation—your future patients will be fortunate to have you on their side!