Advanced Practice Nurses

Most hospital environments are clean and well-lit, but some hospitals may be in less-than-desirable locations, and safety can be an issue. Nurses usually work full-time. In physicians' offices, they work regular business hours. Healthcare facilities require routine patient care, so nurses employed in them might work in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Nurses spend much of the day on their feet, either walking or standing. Handling patients who are ill or infirm can also be very exhausting. Nurses who come in contact with patients with infectious diseases must be cautious about cleanliness and sterility. Although many nursing duties are routine, many responsibilities are unpredictable. Sick persons are often very demanding, or they may be depressed or irritable. Despite this, the nurse must maintain composure and be cheerful to help the patient achieve emotional balance.

All nursing careers have some health and disease risks; however, adherence to health and safety guidelines greatly minimizes the chance of contracting infectious diseases such as hepatitis and AIDS. Medical knowledge and safety measures are also needed to limit the nurse's exposure to toxic chemicals, radiation, and other hazards.