The 21st century has introduced a host of new challenges to the effective administration of health care. Costs are skyrocketing, and resources are limited.

Nursing is a highly esteemed profession but still has its negative aspects. Because of the demanding and stressful nature of the job, many nurses have fallen in the trap of substance abuse. On shows like ‘Nurse Jackie’, this unfortunate truth is made known to the public but the problem is more prevalent than most people realize.

Nurses know stress. Emotionally draining work, long hours and staffing challenges can stress any nurse out over time, leading to job dissatisfaction and possible burnout. A recent review of several research studies found workplace conflicts, difficulties handling varying management styles, heavy workloads and the emotional toll of nursing work itself are the main sources of nurses’ stress, and have been over the course of many years.

Balancing family life and work can be difficult for any professional. However, this is especially true for nurses. For instance, if a nurse is struggling with personal matters or family illness, her work performance might be compromised. This same nurse might not be also able to attend family functions due to work.

One of the most important and sometimes difficult relationships in the medical profession is the interaction between the nurse and the CNA. Certified nursing assistants are often overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated.

Nurses should be proud of what they do. It’s not high-brow, and it’s not pretentious. There is such thing as genuine pride in one’s work.

Nursing is more a lifestyle than a profession. Sometimes, it can become all-consuming and lead you to neglecting other aspects of your life.