Nursing careers are one of the most popular career choices for people wanting to help people. In today’s society, there is an increased demand for nurses as there is also an increase in the population. The bad news is there aren’t many nursing jobs for qualified people of all educational levels. However, if you are willing to commit to an additional degree or just want to dip your toes into the nursing pool, there are several different types of nursing careers available.
If you are more of a student than a full-time nurse, one of the first options for you would be to become a nurse educator. A nurse educator helps nurse practitioners and other RNs achieve their training and licensing. Many nurses begin their careers as nurse educators, then move on to become a nurse practitioner. There are even LPN to nurse educator programs available if you prefer that path.
RNs, or Registered Nurses, are professionals who have completed all the required training and education to practice as a nurse. Most RNs work in hospitals, clinics and offices. Most RNs have at least a master’s degree in nursing. More experienced nurses can pursue careers as registered nurse, or LPN, and work under the direction of a registered nurse. There are many RN jobs for those with more education and experience. RNs can also find employment as healthcare managers, or MDs, in long-term care facilities or other healthcare facilities.
There are also nursing careers for those who enjoy working in other settings aside from the hospital or clinic. Some nurses have their own practices, while others work in healthcare management companies. Those with leadership roles within hospitals may find employment as an administrator or clinical supervisor. Other nursing careers involve working with healthcare companies to provide clinical supervision, or supervise other nurses.
The requirements to enter a nursing career vary by state. In order to obtain a nursing license, a nurse must pass both a written skills test and a hands-on skills test. The nurse will also need to pass a background and criminal records check as well as meet other licensing requirements. All states require a nurse to pass a licensing exam before they can take the licensing exam to become a nurse’s aide, licensed practical nurse, or non-bedside nursing professional.
Salaries for nurse practitioners, or NP, are usually lower than those for nurse educators or LPNs. However, it is important to note that a nurse practitioner job has greater responsibility and could potentially lead to more earning potential over an individual’s entire lifetime. A nurse practitioner job will usually require at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing, although some will require a master’s degree. Salaries for nurse practitioners can be very high as well. Because of their educational background and training, nurse practitioners are expected to earn higher salaries than most nurses.