Whether you were inspired by the story of Florence Nightingale as a child or have a passion to help those in need, there are many reasons to decide to become a nurse. It’s an extremely rewarding career path that has become one of the fastest growing occupations in the country, meaning there will continue to be a growing need for nurses in the upcoming years.

However, catching the eye of an employer requires more than just certification and schooling. Hiawatha Homecare in Red Wing, MN, has shared seven qualities they look for in their nursing candidates who go well beyond what’s on their resume:

1. Compassion & Empathy: As a nurse, you play a crucial role in the recovery and care of a patient. They will see your face more often than their doctor, so it’s important to be empathetic and understanding when discussing their care.
2. Stellar Communication Skills: As a nurse, you will interact with doctors, fellow nurses, patients, and their families on a daily basis. Employers look for practitioners who are fully engaged in active listening and making an effort to concentrate on what is being said. This will help you carry out the best possible care for your patients and figure out what could make their experience more positive.
3. Flexibility: Health care does not operate on a nine to five schedule, and it’s important for nurses to be flexible. Employers want to hire nurses who are comfortable with the physically demanding nature of the job and capable of working long hours.
4. Attention to Detail: As a nurse, you will probably be tasked with the care of several patients. Attention to detail and strong note-taking skills will help you keep track of each individual and provide personalized care. Remember to jot everything down, from their specific medication schedule to the names of their immediate family members.
5. Positive Attitude: Remember that you will often be the face patients see the most. Despite the physical and mental requirements of nursing, it’s important to maintain a positive attitude. A bright demeanor will help put your patients at ease, as well as keep you and your team motivated.
6. Patience: Whether it’s a patient who is unresponsive to treatment or a family member who keeps asking for updates on their loved one, nursing comes with a unique set of stressors. Employers need their medical team to be patient and understanding in these situations to provide the best possible care.
7. Desire to Advance: When nurses take the time to keep up with medical innovations or take on leadership roles within the company, it shows employers that they are dedicated to advancing their career and improving the patient experience.

If you see nursing and health care as more than just a job, you might be a fit for the compassionate team at Hiawatha Homecare. For nearly 30 years, this home health care provider has employed experienced nurses who are committed to providing personalized service when it comes to pain management, physical therapy, and respiratory care. 

If you are ready to help their clients attain increased independence, wellness, and happiness contact Hiawatha Homecare. Call (651) 388-2223 to inquire about new job openings for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, and to learn more about the careers, along with perks, such as competitive wages and flexible hours, visit the website.