Many employers in the medical field use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to find the most qualified candidates as quickly as possible. These types of software scan resumes for specific keywords that indicate candidates have the necessary skills to succeed in the position. So how do you make sure your resume includes those magic words? Easy! Most, if not all, of the keywords employers are looking for appear in the job postings they’ve published online. That’s why we ask for a link to a specific job description when you sign up for one of our professional resume writing service packages.

Here are some of the most common keywords specific to nursing resumes:
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• Patient care (specific patient care tasks, and other skills or traits that specifically relate to the ethical, practical,  and empathetic treatment of patients) 

• Time management (words and phrases that show you can balance multiple responsibilities at once and work efficiently; average number of patients per shift)

• Leadership (ways in which you have taken action, communicated effectively, and provided guidance)

• Critical thinking (examples of how you have adapted to specific changes and challenges, created actionable plans, and/or demonstrated problem-solving abilities)

• HIPAA, etc. (federal and regional healthcare-related laws and standards that you adhere to and have knowledge of in your current and previous roles, as well as those you are studying)

• Hygiene (specific examples of how you demonstrate impeccable hygiene practices in your nursing career)

• Empathy (ways in which you show compassion for your patients and prioritize their needs)

• Teamwork (details about how you collaborate with other nurses, doctors, and medical professionals in the workplace)

• Patient and family education (how you have helped patients and their families understand medical jargon and communicate better with their doctors)

• Observation (ways in which you demonstrate an impressive attention to detail, such as maintaining thorough records, monitoring equipment, tracking stats and readings, etc.)

Looking for a new position in the medical and healthcare industry? Schedule a free consultation with an expert healthcare resume writer.