All across the world, nursing graduates have access to a wide range of possibilities and specialisations, including paediatrics, ERs, and trauma centres. Although it is easy to ignore a speciality like geriatric nursing, many nurses find it to be pleasantly fulfilling.
A surge in geriatric care is presently seen. In the United States, there will be 21.7 percent more individuals over 65 in 2040 than there were in 2013, as predicted by the Administration for Community Living. The demand for enthusiastic, perceptive geriatric nurses who heeded the call to care for these sometimes-forgotten generations will rise along with this increase.
Those who choose this path should be aware that geriatric nursing has its own advantages and difficulties, some of which are given below.
Advancing through education, training, and certification
Geriatric nursing curricula and certifications are quite comparable to those of other specialties. You must first enrol in and complete a nursing program, and pass the NCLEX. RNs who have passed the NCLEX can begin a career working with the elderly right away! However, a little more effort is needed to become certified, primarily experience.
The Gerontological Nursing Certification Exam is a form of credentialing offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre. An RN must meet certain requirements before being eligible to take this exam.
- Possess a valid licence as a registered nurse in the United States or a state or territory (or legally equivalent licensure from another country),
- Work as a full-time registered nurse for at least two years,
- Possess a minimum of 2,000 hours' worth of experience working in the field of gerontological nursing over the course of three years.
- Complete 30 hours of continuing education in the field of gerontological nursing within the recent three years.
This method of obtaining certification as a geriatric nurse grants you the coveted RN-BC (board-certified) credential and places you in a fantastic position to advance your career, learn more, and provide higher-quality care to your patients.
Additionally, you can continue your education by earning a PhD, an MS in geriatric nursing or an RN-BSN degree. The number of geriatric nursing schools and certifications is virtually limitless, even though you only need an RN degree to get started!
Establishing profound relationship with the elderly
As a nurse, you frequently interact with patients more than any other healthcare professional. As a patient advocate, it's critical that you comprehend the value of developing a strong rapport with your older patient and his or her family. High amounts of patience, empathy, and compassion are required for this. It isn't for everyone, but if you value developing close bonds with senior citizens and want to support the older generation, you'll find so much joy and fulfilment in the task. Additionally, it will be a pleasant experience for everyone as a whole.
Earning scope of geriatric nurses
The income for geriatric nursing might be a factor on the list, even though it is wise to select a nursing specialty based on love and purpose. Geriatric nurses may earn significantly different salaries depending on their region, level of education, experience, and employer. Overall, however, geriatric nurses may typically make a comfortable life for themselves. If you're wondering how much they make, the average salary for geriatrics-focused nurses, according to Nurse Journal, ranges from $49,000 (Hawaii) to $98,000. (Washington, DC).
Overcoming obstacles
End-of-life care can be draining because elderly patients frequently require greater physical support and providing end-of-life care for them is becoming more challenging with each passing year. It takes a broad variety of abilities and a solid knowledge basis to effectively manage chronic illnesses, comorbidities, and drugs. Geriatric nurses must be at ease with critical thinking and listening to the needs, wishes, and feelings of the patient because symptoms of a common ailment might present in the ageing population in quite different ways.
Overcoming a fear of the elderly
Some people may harbour an unfounded apprehension toward the elderly. Some qualified nurses may be discouraged from pursuing a career in geriatric nursing even though they would thrive in the profession due to several myths and stereotypes. Not every senior patient has dementia. Every ageing person is different, with their own thoughts, abilities, and perspectives on the world. Aging does not impair creativity, the capacity for change, or the love that families have for their parents, grandparents, or siblings. However, physical strength, memory, and the five senses do deteriorate with time. It's critical to avoid making judgments and to have an open mind. You can never tell where someone has been or what their life has been like.
Taking up the cause of elderly patients
You will be one of the strongest advocates for the patient and the patient's family as a geriatric nurse. The goal of the treatment may change in some circumstances. In geriatric nursing, treating the patient with respect and dignity, preserving function, and providing the highest standard of care may take precedence over curing the condition.
If you are interested to pursue a career in Geriatric Nursing, contact our counsellors at MWT Education Consultancy who can help you in pursuing the career of your dreams.
