There are many different types of nursing careers. Some people might want to know about them because they are interested in a career in nursing. Others might want to know because a loved one is in the hospital, and they want to be able to help them. No matter what the reason, it’s important to know about the different types of nursing careers so you can choose the one that’s right for you.
1. Registered Nurse
A registered nurse is a nurse who has earned a nursing degree and been licensed by the state where they work. They are responsible for providing nursing care to patients, monitoring their health, updating progress nursing notes to ensure there is a legal record of the medical care a patient receives, and helping to educate them and their families about how to stay healthy. Registered nurses can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies.
2. Nurse Practitioner
A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional training. This allows them to provide more comprehensive care than a registered nurse. They can prescribe medication, order tests, and diagnose and treat diseases. Nurse practitioners can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. If you’d like to become a nurse practitioner, visit academicpartnerships.uta.edu/
3. Certified Nurse Midwife
A certified nurse-midwife is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional training in midwifery. They provide care to women during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the postpartum period. They can also provide well-woman care, such as Pap smears and breast exams. Certified nurse-midwives can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
4. Certified Nurse Anesthetist
A certified nurse anesthetist is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional training in anesthesia. They provide anesthesia for surgery and other procedures. Certified nurse anesthetists can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
5. Clinical Nurse Specialist
A clinical nurse specialist is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional training in a specific area of nursing. They provide expert care and guidance to other nurses and health care providers. Clinical nurse specialists can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
6. Nurse Educator
A nurse educator is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional training in education. They are responsible for educating other nurses and health care providers. Nurse educators can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and colleges.
7. Nurse Administrator
A nurse administrator is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional training in administration. They are responsible for managing and coordinating the care nurses, and other health care providers provide. Nurse administrators can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
8. Psychiatric Nurse
A psychiatric nurse is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional training in psychiatry. They provide care to patients with mental illnesses. Psychiatric nurses can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
9. Nurse Researcher
A nurse researcher is a registered nurse who has gone on to get additional research training. They research a variety of topics related to nursing and health care. Nurse researchers can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
10. Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse
A hospice and palliative care nurse is a registered nurse who has received additional training in hospice and palliative care. They provide care to patients who are terminally ill. Hospice and palliative care nurses can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
11. Travel Nurse
A travel nurse is a registered nurse who works in a temporary position in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home health agencies. Travel nurses typically work 13-week assignments.
12. School Nurse
A school nurse is a registered nurse who works in a school setting. They are responsible for the health and well-being of students. School nurses can work in various settings, including public and private schools.
13. Military Nurse
A military nurse is a registered nurse who works in the military. They are responsible for the health and well-being of soldiers and their families. Military nurses can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and bases.
Conclusion
There are a variety of nursing careers available to registered nurses. The career you choose will depend on your interests and skills. To enter a nursing specialty, you often have to start getting a degree to become a registered nurse. From there, you can attend an online RN to MSN course to pursue a specific nursing career. There are many opportunities for advancement in nursing, and you can specialize in various areas. With so many options available, there is sure to be a nursing career that is right for you.
Featured Photo by Bruno Rodrigues on Unsplash
