Case Study, Chapter 21

Development of a Professional Nursing Career

Gina graduated from an associate degree program in nursing and is working on a

medical-surgical unit. Gina was introduced to Sue, a nursing student who is
currently completing a clinical rotation on the medical-surgical unit. Gina shares
with Sue about pursuing different avenues in nursing. Sue remains uncertain of
where she wants to work after graduation. (Learning Objectives 1, 2, 4, and 5)

Nursing Student Questions

1. The responsibility for professional nursing career development lies within

each nurse. Sue needs to identify values and career goals. What is the
difference between a value and career goal?

A value is something that is important to someon’s life. Like a concept or

an ideal.

A career goal would be something more specific. It’s a goal you want to
attain in the context of your career. Such as getting a degree, or getting a
promotion.

2. Networking and mentoring are effective strategies that Gina tells Sue to use
for career development. What is the difference between networking and
mentoring?

Networking involves creating professional connections and contacts in your field or

in others.

Mentoring is the process of having an experienced person guide help you with your
professional growth and advancement.