Profession: Nurse Practitioner 

Experience: Over 6 Years

Location: Riga, Latvia

 

My Personal Experience: 

Becoming a nurse practitioner was never just a career choice for me; it was a calling. From a young age, I felt a deep compassion for those in need of medical care. This desire to make a difference led me to pursue nursing, and eventually, I found my path as a nurse practitioner. With over 6 years of experience in this role, I’ve gained valuable insights into the profession and its challenges and rewards.

 

The Hard part I feel about this profession as per my experience till now:

One of the most challenging aspects of being a nurse practitioner is striking the balance between empathy and maintaining professional boundaries. Working closely with patients and their families allows us to develop strong connections, but it also means we often witness pain and suffering. It’s emotionally demanding to provide care to patients in their most vulnerable moments while maintaining composure.

Another challenge is keeping up with the rapidly evolving medical landscape. Medical advancements and research breakthroughs occur frequently, and it’s our responsibility to stay informed to provide the best care possible. The pressure to stay up-to-date can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when combined with the day-to-day demands of patient care.

 

Things I find interesting or feel “happy” about this profession are:

Despite the challenges, being a nurse practitioner in Latvia is incredibly rewarding. I have the privilege of working closely with patients of all ages and backgrounds, each with their own unique stories and needs. Every day brings a new opportunity to make a positive impact on someone’s life, whether it’s through a simple act of kindness, a reassuring smile, or a life-saving intervention.

Moreover, the sense of camaraderie among healthcare professionals is heartening. We work as a team, supporting each other during difficult times and celebrating successes together. It’s inspiring to see the dedication and compassion that my colleagues bring to their roles, creating a supportive and nurturing environment.

 

Pros And Cons I feel about this profession:

Pros:

• Diverse Patient Interactions: As a nurse practitioner, I have the privilege of interacting with patients of all ages and backgrounds, enhancing my understanding of various medical conditions and cultural perspectives.
• Continual Learning: The medical field is always evolving, providing me with opportunities to expand my knowledge and skill set through ongoing learning and professional development.
• Autonomy and Responsibility: Nurse practitioners in Latvia have a significant level of autonomy, allowing us to diagnose, treat, and manage patients’ healthcare needs independently.

Cons:

• Emotional Toll: Witnessing the suffering of patients and their families can take an emotional toll, requiring constant self-care and emotional resilience.
• High Expectations: The healthcare field places high expectations on practitioners, which can lead to pressure and burnout if not managed effectively.
• Complex Healthcare Systems: Navigating the complex healthcare systems, including insurance processes and administrative tasks, can be time-consuming and challenging.

 

My suggestions for newcomers in this profession: