Picture it. You just spent the last couple of years spending countless hours fueled by coffee and studying to pass your classes. After all that stressful time you waltzed into your classroom and absolutely crushed your NCLEX. After that, you put those scrubs on and officially became a licensed nurse. The only thing left to do (besides celebrating of course) is to consider joining some of the amazing nursing organizations out there. These organizations can provide amazing benefits, and it’s a great way to give back and get involved in your field. Below we’re going to go over some of the best nursing associations to join. Let’s check it out!
5 Best Nursing Associations to Join
American Nurses Association
The American Nurses Association (ANA) is a great place to start. Arguably the biggest nursing association in the country, the ANA is usually the first organization that new nurses join. They offer a ton of great benefits including an entire online library full of research and studies for nurses looking for even more education. They also offer regular webinars featuring experts in the field.
Not only will you get a ton of education but being a member of the ANA looks great on a resume for future employers. Also, we hear that during National Nurses Week, the ANA always offers some really cool activities and ways to celebrate the week of recognition!
American Red Cross
Those looking for more of a hands-on association should consider the American Red Cross! This is one of the best nursing associations for those looking to get involved and volunteer with a nationwide group that is making a huge impact. Whether you’re helping to teach your local swimming instructors how to perform CPR or helping take care of victims displaced by a natural disaster, this association will give you the opportunity to make an impact around the country immediately.
National Student Nurses Association
Oops! We almost forgot. You don’t have to wait until you graduate to find some of the best nursing associations out there. In fact, the National Student Nurses Association accepts members at any stage of their nursing school journey. Similar to the ANA, the NSNA provides a ton of great resources and videos for those looking to gain more knowledge about the field. Not only do they offer a library of great studies and textbooks, but they also offer workshops that focus on important skills for nurses. These workshops and webinars will focus on things like patient advocacy, burnout management, and how to promote comradery within the workplace.
State Nursing Associations
We also recommend that you join your state’s nursing association. All 50 states have at least one nursing association that deals specifically with nurses in that state. These associations are similar to the ANA but will provide state-specific resources. This is also important to keep in mind, especially during a tumultuous time like the COVID-19 epidemic. States may have different guidelines and regulations compared to the federal level, so joining a nursing association like this is a great way to stay informed.
Specialty Nursing Associations
If you find yourself working in a specific specialty like the NICU or ER, you should consider joining the association that goes with it! Some of the best nursing associations are specialty-based and they can provide a ton of great info as you continue your career. These types of associations will provide a narrower scope of education and even some amazing job opportunities. These associations will highlight specific issues that impact your field and will provide support and assistance for all members.
What are some of the best nursing associations in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below!
