Individuals who enter nursing careers often have big hearts and an even bigger tolerance for uncomfortable situations, long hours and intense care. Those who decide to become nurses may also possess a special quality that can be both firm and sympathetic, but ultimately nurses nurture and heal patients.

Nursing school can be challenging for some and but the first few years working in a hospital or clinic setting may be transformative. One nurse was recently given an award for her skills and dedication to her profession.

Based out of Harrisburg, Virginia, DNROnline recently reported on Madge Trobaugh who has worked locally for 39 years and recently received an award from the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses (ASPAN).

Trobaugh was honored for Excellence in Clinical Nursing because the group determined that she was "a recognized expert in clinical nursing practice who participates actively in nursing programs, committees or projects that result in contributions to the field," quoted the news provider.

Individuals who want to follow in her footsteps will be encouraged by this information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It is anticipated that careers in nursing will grow by 23% until 2016.