Introverts—people who get their energy from spending time alone—tend to be quiet and reserved. While introverts often get mistaken for being unfriendly or shy, they are simply people who need to retreat inward to re-energize before being able to interact with others.
In Susan Cain's powerful TED talk on introverts, she shares the challenges of being an introvert in today's society which values those who are extroverted and social, and she praises the under-appreciated skills common amongst introverts.
If you're considering whether you should be a nurse as an introvert, in this blog post, we'll give you the run-down on how to manage your introversion while working and point you in the right direction for nursing jobs for introverts.
Best Nursing Specialties and Jobs for Introverts
Not all nurses are expected to be social and interact with others throughout their work day. Some nursing jobs and specialties are perfect for those who prefer fewer social interactions to maintain their energy as they work. If you're an introverted nurse, consider the following specialties:
- Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nursing: As a PACU nurse, your job is to support patients in recovery as they regain consciousness post-surgery. You'll only be responsible for a maximum of two patients at a time, and due to the patient's condition, you aren't expected to be social or have a typical nurse-patient relationship with them.
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nursing: In the ICU, you'll care for the most unwell patients in critical conditions. Those in the ICU typically have such fragile health that you'll spend your shifts observing and supporting them around the clock.
- Home Health Nursing: As a home health nurse, you can work with one patient full-time, or you may work with several patients. Either way, you'll be working in an environment that is generally less chaotic than in a hospital or clinic, and you'll be interacting with fewer people.
- Psychiatric Nursing: Your superpowers of empathy and compassion will come in handy as a psychiatric nurse as you care for patients experiencing mental illness.
Can an Introvert Be a Nurse?
Introverts can pursue a career in nursing. Whether you're a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or certified nursing assistant (CNA), you'll be well-positioned to apply the skills and character traits you have as an introvert to your everyday work.
Here are the top characteristics that introverts have and how they can benefit you as a nurse:
Introverts Are Good Listeners
While extroverts are likely to interrupt someone or quickly respond in a conversation, introverts typically allow others to share what's on their mind as they focus on active listening. Introverts are also likelier to think through their responses before speaking.
As a nurse, it's crucial to foster good listening skills to understand what your patients are feeling and make them feel heard regarding their concerns. As an introvert, listening comes naturally to you, and it'll help you earn your patients’ trust.
Introverts Are Observant
Introverts tend to have strong observational skills, which means they can read a room and have a pulse on what someone may be thinking but not saying out loud. As a nurse, your observational nature is key, not only when it comes to working with patients but also in managing relationships with colleagues and supervisors.
Introverts Are Empathetic Leaders
According to best-selling author Susan Cain, introverts are "routinely passed up" for promotions despite having exceptional qualities that make them empathetic, compassionate leaders. However, if you're an introvert, you're in good company when it comes to becoming a strong leader. From Bill Gates to Mark Zukerberg, there is no shortage of high-powered leaders who identify as introverts.
As a nurse, your introversion can be a strength when it comes to serving as a healthcare leader or influencer. Whether you're supervising a nursing student on a clinical placement or advocating on behalf of a patient, your introversion will support you in leading with empathy.
Should You Be a Nurse as an Introvert?
Nurses have a range of personality types, from introverted to extroverted—which is essential to diversifying workplaces and providing the best possible care to patients. As an introverted nurse, you'll connect with patients differently from your extroverted colleagues. Your observational skills will enable you to pick up on social and other cues that your colleagues may miss, and some patients may feel more comfortable in your presence.
Don't let your introversion hold you back from pursuing a career in nursing if it aligns with your interests. Your introversion can be a strength rather than a weakness when it comes to your career in healthcare.
How to Manage as an Introvert Nurse
As an introverted nurse, you may need to tweak your everyday life to maintain energy. It's essential to monitor your energy levels throughout the day and respond to what your body is telling you. If you're feeling tapped out and need a break, try to take one, even if it's just a minute to yourself.
Mindfulness exercises can support you in feeling present and centered when you're overwhelmed on the job. If you're experiencing high stress through your nursing job because of your introversion, speak to a professional and consider transitioning to a different nursing specialty that will better cater to your character traits.
Looking to connect with other nurses to share tips and learn from one another? Join the Nursa community today to participate in online discussions, in-person events, and more.
