Professional nursing organizations support nurses and advance the nursing profession. By joining one or more associations, you can continue to have access to the research-based learning and leadership training offered in a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or other nursing program.
The online RN to BSN program offered by The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) can be a good option for working nurses looking to achieve their career goals. In addition to expanding career options, this type of program can expose you to various professional organizations through the connections of professors and fellow students. Gaining an inside perspective into professional nursing organizations can be pivotal in deciding which might benefit you most.
Benefits of Membership
You can benefit from membership in a professional nursing association in many ways, including:
- Current knowledge of the field: Nursing organizations can help you stay updated with news and changes in the nursing profession and develop a broader perspective.
- Access to continuing education opportunities: Nursing organizations may offer or have agreements with continuing education programs, often including discounted rates. Some organizations also have official journals that include peer-reviewed clinical articles and research.
- Networking opportunities: Online forums, local meetings, networking events and an annual convention are often available. Networking opportunities may also lead to career advancement opportunities.
- Career assistance: Organizations often have a career center that posts job openings, offers advice about the job search process and provides information such as typical salaries and benefits.
- Discounts on products and resources: Membership may include perks like free or discounted newsletters and certification review materials. Some nursing organizations also feature member discounts on auto, life and professional liability insurance and special credit card offers.
- Certification: Many specialty nursing organizations offer certification in that specialty.
- Self–care: Interaction with peers in professional organization events can be an important part of a nurse’s self-care routine, helping to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue.
Many professional nursing organizations also serve as advocacy groups for the profession. Your dues can help support that advocacy.
Beyond paying dues and receiving benefits, you can get the most out of your membership by becoming involved. Attending local meetings and events is a good start. You might also consider joining a committee, such as the education, finance, political action or newsletter committee. Sometimes organizations have special programs or events that need volunteers. You could even run for an office.
Not only does your involvement support your profession and give you the opportunity to meet other nurses, but your activities could also look impressive on your resume. Demonstrating leadership skills in your role in professional organizations may show prospective employers you have the aptitude for nursing leadership positions.
Texas Nursing Associations
Texas nurses can choose from various professional associations, many of which are chapters of a larger national organization.
For students, the Texas Nursing Students’ Association is the state chapter of the National Student Nurses Association. The association provides educational resources, leadership opportunities and career guidance.
The Texas Nurses Association (TNA) is the Texas affiliate of the American Nurses Association (ANA) and welcomes all nurses and nursing students. TNA has districts across the state where nurses can meet and network locally.
Texas also has several specialty professional nursing organizations, with membership generally limited to nurses in the specialty and students preparing to enter it. These organizations include:
- Texas Association of Nurse Anesthetists
- Texas Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Texas Emergency Nurses Association
- Texas Organization for Nursing Leadership
- Texas Nurse Practitioners
- Texas School Nurses Organization
- Texas State Association of Occupational Health Nurses
In addition to statewide organizations, Texas has regional organizations, such as:
- Austin Advanced Practice Nurses
- Black Nurses Association of Greater Houston
- Dallas Fort Worth Affiliate of ANPD
- Houston Area Nurse Practitioners
- National Association of Hispanic Nurses
- North Texas Nurse Practitioners
Membership in professional nursing organizations can help you get the most out of the nursing profession. You can develop a broader perspective and support the advancement of nursing. Consider your options and find the organizations that best suit your needs.
Learn more about UTA’s online RN to BSN program.
