Nurses Have Great Prognosis For Job Growth In San Jose, Says Expert
San Jose is growing and thriving and demand for well-trained nursing professionals remains strong. Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. Due to an increased emphasis on preventative care, growing rates of chronic conditions and demand for health care services from the aging baby boomer population, new nursing positions will continue to be in high demand. That's the opinion of Nancy Brook, a certified nurse practitioner at Stanford Hospital. Here's what else she had to say about her career and San Jose nursing jobs.
What is your background and education?
"I come from a family of health care providers - my father was a surgeon and grandfather was a family practitioner back in the days when doctors carried little black bags and made house calls. I pursued my undergraduate degree in psychology and completed graduate work at Vanderbilt University with a master's degree in Nursing, with a specialty as a Family Nurse Practitioner. In 2011, I received a master's degree in Counseling Psychology from USF."
What do you do at Stanford Hospital?
"I have spent nearly 20 years at Stanford Hospital, beginning as an emergency department nurse. Since 2002, I've been part of the Musculoskeletal Oncology team, a fast-paced surgical cancer practice where we treat tumors of the bones and muscles, with a focus on helping patients lead the best lives they can. One of the perks of this position is being able to establish lasting relationships with patients and families. I also work with prospective nurses and students as a consultant and mentor."
As an expert in the field, what advice can you share for job seekers in health care?
"The best advice I can provide to job seekers is to be well prepared. Board certification is a must. Network with others, join a professional association and volunteer whenever possible. Connect with a mentor. Consider positions or specialty areas you might not have considered. Finally, carefully evaluate your geographic preferences. San Jose is a highly desirable place to live and work, yet many other areas have a great need for well-trained professionals. That is the beauty of a career in health care - you are able to make an impact both locally and globally."
Randy Yagi is a freelance writer covering all things San Francisco. In 2012, he was awarded a Media Fellowship from Stanford University. His work can be found on Examiner.com Examiner.com.
