With the ushering of the new millennium, nurses have become the most in demand professionals across the globe. In the United States alone, there is an estimated -20% shortage of nursing practitioners by the year 2015 (Data from the Bureau of Health Professions, 2005). Aside from employment abroad, attractive compensation, benefits package and migration opportunities are sure to entice any student to go into a nursing school. Indeed, there has never been a more appropriate time to pursue a career in nursing than today.
Each year, universities and colleges produce a large number of nursing graduates who will fiercely compete to enter the healthcare industry. How are Filipino nurses coping with this competition? What is the advantage of Philippine nurses over their counterparts?
5 Reasons Why Filipino Nurses are in Demand
Foremost is the fact that we Filipinos, in general, are very caring. We are known worldwide for our warm hospitality. Never mind that we sacrifice a lot to ensure that our guests experience the best. The same virtue is imbibed in our nurses: to care for their patients and give extra service to ease their pains, whether they are rewarded or not for doing so.
Second, is our excellent command of the English language. Since English is universal, anyone who speaks it well surely has an edge. Filipino nurses are known to communicate more effectively with their employers, co-workers, and most importantly, their patients. Their fluency in the universal language minimizes communication problems in the health facilities.
Third is our very flexible nature. We can easily adapt in almost any environment and situation. Blame it to enduring centuries of colonialism and having to constantly battle with natural calamities as a tropical country. Filipino nurses are able to survive tremendous emotional burdens caused by homesickness, and they treat their patients like genuine family members.
Fourth is our volunteering attitude. Remember the infamous bayanihan spirit? Filipino nurses do not need to be told. They have a strong sense of initiative. Their active volunteerism to achieve the common good is an asset to any health organization. They volunteer and share their knowledge, expertise, skills and time.
Lastly, Filipino nurses are highly skilled. Philippine nursing schools continuously strive to make Filipino nurses at par with their international counterparts. This is the reason why there is a strict monitoring of their operations. One qualification is the students’ performance in the Licensure Exams. Therefore, in scouting for a good Nursing school, the overall passing rate of its Nursing graduates is a key factor.
Nursing is perhaps the most in demand profession currently, but it doesn’t mean that it’s the easiest. It’s not just about checking vital signs and giving pills, it’s showing compassion. It’s giving oneself wholeheartedly to patients who may be complete strangers. More importantly, it is having a heart ready to serve.
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Southville International School and Colleges (SISC) has continuously maintained its ranking as the Number One School South of Manila in the Philippine Nursing Licensure Exam (PNLE). It was also ranked 7th Nationally for Category II. For the Academic Year 2011-2012, it will be offering allied medical courses such as BS Medical Technology, BS Radiologic Technology, BS Pharmacy and BS Midwifery. For more details, contact (632) 829-1675 or visit www.southville.edu.ph.
