The role of nursing has changed significantly over the years. While it is still essential for nurses to provide patients with consideration and care, nurses are now expected to have technological skills to process patient data and in some cases carry out research. Entering the profession involves undertaking a degree in nursing, including work experience placements. The NHS staffing crisis and rising demand from patients means it’s essential that nurses have the right skills to meet the challenges of the job. When hiring nurses, these five skills are what medical recruiters and employers will be looking for.

1. COMPASSION

Compassion, that feeling of wanting to help and care for others, is perhaps the main reason why people choose a career in nursing. Nurses need to have a strong desire to make the experience of their patients as comfortable as possible, as well as being sympathetic to their problems and concerns.

2. GOOD ETHICS

Naturally nurses will often get to know their patients very well but it’s important that they maintain a professional conduct. They are trusted with the personal details of their patients and therefore should act with discretion at all times. Nurses should be committed to humanitarian principles.

3. COMMUNICATION

Nurses are responsible for communicating with their patients and their families, as well as their colleagues. Listening to patients and being alert to changes in their condition is crucial, as well as knowing when to communicate any issues to other members of the team. Nurses must also be able to discuss sensitive and often difficult topics with patient’s families.

4. ADAPTABILITY

Nurses will encounter many changes within the workplace, including unexpected problems with patients, longer working hours and changing work schedules. Being flexible is an important aspect of the nursing profession, and an employer will want to know that you are able to cope with short notice changes.

5. DETERMINATION

Nursing is a demanding job and being able to cope with these demands is essential. Nurses will face physical, mental and emotional challenges which require strength and determination to overcome. Despite the challenges, nursing is a very rewarding profession.

Do you think you have what it takes to become a nurse? If you have these five essential skills then you may possess the right attributes to provide the best patient care and pursue a career in the nursing profession - and don’t forget to include them in your CV.

Author Bio: Ron Stewart has worked in the recruitment industry for 30 years, having owned companies in the IT, Construction and Medical sectors. He is currently running the Jobs4Group, including Jobs4Medical.