English is the dominant language spoken in the United States, but it certainly isn’t the only one. If you speak more than one language or are thinking of learning a new dialect, this can be incredibly beneficial to your nursing career.
Knowledge is power, and having fluency in more than one language is something very special. Most nurses are not bilingual, so having this ability will make you a competitive force. Here are a few top ways that speaking more than one language can help your nursing career.
4 Advantages of Being a Bilingual Nurse
More Job Opportunities
Medical facilities that serve a diverse population need nurses who can communicate with patients who don’t speak English. Therefore, being bilingual makes you a candidate for more jobs. If you’re vying for a job against a candidate with equal work experience, this will give you a huge edge.
Ability to Work Abroad
If you’re interested in taking your nursing skills to a non-English speaking country, being bilingual is a must. This can allow you to enjoy a new adventure while continuing to help others.
Provide Better Care
Some patients might have a basic understanding of English, but not enough to fully communicate their needs. As a bilingual nurse who speaks their native tongue, you’ll be able to converse with them in a manner they fully comprehend. This will allow you to provide a better quality of care because nothing will get lost in translation.
Communicate With Non-English Speaking Families
When a loved one requires medical care, their families want to do everything in their power to help. However, a language barrier with the medical staff can make this impossible. If you’re bilingual, you can provide assistance that can change both the patient and the family’s experience for the better. You’ll be able to explain what’s going on with the patient, and they can ask questions to ease their minds and provide information that can allow you to give the best possible care.
Need a little help finding a fulfilling new nursing job? Management Registry, Inc. wants to help. Contact us today to take the next step in your career!