West Des Moines IA

A Guide to Working PRN Nursing Shifts in West Des Moines

Nursing is a noble and rewarding profession, and there is no better place to experience the true essence of this field than in the bustling city of West Des Moines, Iowa. Known for its booming economy, diverse community, and thriving healthcare industry, West Des Moines offers a unique opportunity for nursing professionals to grow and thrive in their careers. Whether you are a nurse or a nursing professional, this city has something to offer for everyone. This guide will explore the various aspects of living and working in West Des Moines as a nurse.

The City of West Des Moines – A Brief Overview

Located in Polk County, West Des Moines is the seventh-largest city in Iowa, with a population of over 65,000 people. The city is situated on the western side of Des Moines, the state capital of Iowa, and is known for its vibrant business district, picturesque parks, and top-rated schools. With a low unemployment rate and a strong economy, West Des Moines offers many job opportunities in different industries, including healthcare.

RN Jobs in West Des Moines – Responsibilities and Working PRN

Registered nurses provide holistic care to patients in various settings. Some of the responsibilities of an RN may include:

Conducting patient assessments, taking vital signs, and providing medication management

• Developing and implementing care plans for patients based on their needs
• Educating patients and their families
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals
• Administering treatments and procedures as ordered by physicians
• Maintaining accurate patient records

Many nurses in West Des Moines choose to work PRN, which stands for "as needed." This type of job offers flexibility in scheduling and allows nurses to work when convenient for them. Nurses may pick up PRN shifts in different facilities, specialties, and settings.

LPN Jobs in West Des Moines – Responsibilities and Working PRN

Licensed practical nurses (LPN) play a crucial role in the healthcare team and work under the direction of RNs and physicians. They provide basic care to patients and assist with daily activities. Some of their responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with patient assessments and reporting any changes to RNs and physicians
• Administering medications and treatments as ordered
• Assisting with procedures and tests
• Providing basic wound care
• Monitoring patients' conditions and reporting any concerns to the healthcare team
• Educating patients on self-care and managing their conditions
• Maintaining accurate patient records

Similar to RNs, LPNs can also work PRN in West Des Moines. This type of job can be an excellent option for nurses who prefer a flexible schedule and want to gain experience in different settings and specialties.

CNA Jobs in West Des Moines – Responsibilities and Working PRN

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) play a vital role in healthcare facilities and provide direct care to patients, assisting with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, and reporting any changes to nurses. Some of their responsibilities may include:

• Assisting patients with bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Feeding patients who are unable to feed themselves
• Documenting patients' intake and output
• Reporting any changes
• Assisting with ambulation and transferring patients
• Maintaining a clean and safe environment
• Providing emotional support

CNAs can also work PRN in different healthcare facilities in West Des Moines. This type of job offers flexibility and allows CNAs to gain experience in other areas of patient care.

Advantages for Nursing Professionals in West Des Moines

Working as a nurse in West Des Moines has many advantages, making it an attractive location for healthcare professionals. Some of the benefits of working in West Des Moines include:

• Strong economy and job opportunities: West Des Moines has a robust and diverse economy, making it a hub for job opportunities. The city is home to many leading corporations, including Fortune 500 companies, providing job security for nursing professionals.
• Cost of living: Compared to other cities in the United States, West Des Moines has a lower cost of living. This means nurses can enjoy a higher quality of life without paying exorbitant housing, transportation, and other expenses.
• Thriving healthcare industry: The healthcare industry in West Des Moines is continuously growing, providing ample job opportunities for nursing professionals.
• Continuing education and professional development: West Des Moines is home to top-rated educational institutions, including Des Moines Area Community College and Grand View University. Nurses can use these institutions to further their education and advance their careers.

With its safety, numerous recreational activities, and excellent school systems, West Des Moines provides a high quality of life for nurses and their families.

What Inspires People to Become Nursing Professionals?

Many nurses are drawn to this field because it offers a chance to positively impact people's lives and the community. Other factors that inspire individuals to become nursing professionals include:

• Job stability and growth opportunities
• The chance to continue learning and advancing in their careers
• Competitive wages
• Flexibility in scheduling and work locations
• The fulfillment of helping others in need
• The opportunity to work in a variety of settings and specialties
• Making a difference in people's lives and advocating for their health and well-being

Nursing requires a blend of science and compassion.

Things to Do in West Des Moines

When not busy with their nursing duties, nurses in West Des Moines can explore some of the city's exciting activities. Here are some must-visit places and things to do in the West Des Moines area:

• Visit the Valley Junction Historic District: This charming neighborhood is filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants in historic buildings.
• Relax at Raccoon River Park: This park offers beautiful walking and biking trails, a lake for fishing and boating, and a beach for swimming.
• Explore Living History Farms: This outdoor museum offers a glimpse into Iowa's agricultural past with working farms and exhibits from different eras.
• Attend a show at the Des Moines Community Playhouse: This local theater has entertained audiences for over 100 years with various plays and musicals.
• Shop at Jordan Creek Town Center: This premier shopping destination features over 175 stores, a movie theater, and a variety of restaurants.

If you are a nursing professional working in West Des Moines, you might also find jobs in the nearby area, for example, in Des Moines, Ames, Indianola, Knoxville, and Atlantic. Check jobs in the area today!

Weather and Climate in West Des Moines

West Des Moines experiences all four seasons: hot summers, cold winters, and mild spring and fall seasons. The average high temperature in July, the warmest month, is 86°F, and the average low temperature in January, the coldest month, is 13°F. The city sees an average of 33 inches of snow annually, and the most precipitation occurs in June. Nurses should be prepared for all types of weather when living and working in West Des Moines.

West Des Moines offers an excellent environment for nursing professionals to live and work in. With a thriving economy, strong healthcare industry, and a high quality of life, it is no wonder that nurses are drawn to this city. Whether you are an RN, LPN, or CNA, West Des Moines has endless personal and professional growth opportunities. So, if you consider picking up PRN nursing jobs in this city, you will have a fulfilling and rewarding experience in West Des Moines. Request jobs with Nursa here