Commitment to Pursuing a Lifelong Career in Nursing

The Four C's of Nursing

Commitment, compassion, caring, and concern are the four C's of nursing. These attributes are extremely critical in the profession of nursing, as well as in most facets of life in general (Collins, 2009). A nursing professional's education and training is continuous; it does not end after acquiring a bachelor's or associate degree. Continuation of schooling is a personal nursing prerogative. Personally, I am deeply committed to the overall nursing profession and, in particular, to my specialty — oncology. I demonstrate this commitment through my goal of lifelong learning. To reinforce this commitment, I acquired a Master of Nursing degree, which helped expand my knowledge and ensured a sound grasp of nursing concepts, theories, and frameworks. Through ongoing learning, I have gained an increased understanding of patients, the way they learn, and how I may continue shaping patient education on the basis of these frameworks and concepts (NT, 2012).

Early Experiences and the Path to Nursing

I played my very first nursing role during my nurse aide training at an ALF (assisted living facility). Though our training covered several skills, I came to understand that this role was not simply about completing routine tasks. During my time at the ALF, I assisted a frail resident with brushing her teeth. The resident appreciated my help and thanked me repeatedly. However plain a task it may appear, I always went home with the feeling that I had made a difference in someone's life. Throughout my career these past few years, I have consistently sought roles that offer physical, intellectual, and emotional challenges while placing emphasis on patient-centered care.

My personal goal of making service the focus of my career developed during my first undergraduate degree. At that time, I considered switching to the nursing profession, but ultimately chose to help my family business, which I felt was more vital then (Giraldo, 2013).