Preface -- Introduction -- Section I. Chapter 1: Self-Assessment -- Chapter 2: Goal Setting and Self Discipline -- Section II. Chapter 3: Professional Nursing Career Paths: the non-academic path -- Chapter 4: Professional Nursing Career Paths: the academic path -- Section III. Chapter 5: Charting YOUR Career Path: internal strategies -- Chapter 6: Charting YOUR Career Path: external strategies -- Chapter 7: The basics of Professional Growth -- Chapter 8: Ensuring Continued Professional Growth -- Chapter 9: Professionalism.

This textbook provides a one-stop reference resource and guide for nurses interested in advancing their careers. It addresses self-assessment, goal setting and self-discipline, as well as academic paths and non-academic career paths, and includes two chapters on strategic path development, covering internal motivation, risk taking, work-life balance, work environment, networking, professional membership and mentorship. Lastly, the book discusses professional growth topics such as civility, burnout, professional development and "keeping informed," and explores specific professionalism topics like professional behavior, ethics, social media and executive presence. Intended for nurses at any level, this textbook examines topics relevant to today's nursing professionals and offers guidance on building a successful nursing career. It also helps student nurses create a path for their career and professional growth, both during their training program and beyond.