Registered nurses, or RNs, work in many capacities in the medical field. As a registered nurse, you might educate patients about healthy lifestyles. Some registered nurses are involved in direct patient care, and often work in medical practices or in hospital environments. Other nurses work in administrative capacities. State laws govern the duties that registered nurses may perform, although job responsibilities determine your everyday tasks.
Nursing Specialties
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics notes four general nursing specialties. You might focus on a specific setting, such as an operating room or critical care unit. Another option is to specialize in a specific type of disease or condition; this choice allows you to work in many settings. You may choose diabetes management, oncology, or addictions nursing work.
A third option is to work with specific body systems or organs. For example, dermatology nurses and orthopedic nurses work in specialty practices. Finally, some nurses choose to work with special patient populations. Geriatric or pediatric nurses are good examples. Some nurses such as geriatric oncology nurses combine two specialties.
Educational Requirements
You can become a registered nurse by taking one of three paths. The Bureau notes that a bachelor's of science degree in nursing provides a well-rounded education that includes leadership training as well as clinical work. You'll find that this degree or a higher credential is required for administrative or teaching positions.
As an alternative to the bachelor's degree, you can complete an associate's degree or a diploma in nursing. Although you can likely obtain an entry-level nursing job with either credential, obtaining your bachelor's degree will help to broaden your options.
Personal Traits
Regardless of your registered nurse career path, several personal qualities would serve you well in this career. A registered nurse should be extremely well-organized and observant. These skills will help you manage patient conditions and determine when physician assistance is needed. The ability to be sympathetic to the needs of a patient and his family is another essential quality.
Nursing Salaries
Your salary range might vary due to several factors: degree, years of experience in your field, and the type of specialty care you provide. You may also see significant salary variations in different parts of the United States.
For example, the All Nursing Schools website states that a median 2009 salary for a pediatric nurse was approximately $59,000. A median psychiatric nurse salary was $61,000, while a surgical nurse earned a median $74,000 annual salary.
Professional Opportunities
As a registered nurse, your career can grow in two directions. If you prefer the business side of medicine, you can manage a health care practice. If you enjoy teaching, you may find employment at a college or university.
You can also choose to become an advanced practice nurse. This path will enable you to work alongside or in consultation with physicians. Examples of advanced practice nurses include nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists. The latter specialty is effectively a consulting position. All advanced practice specialties require at least a master's degree and additional training.
