Wondering which nurse job suits you best? This guide explores various nursing specialties and offers insights on how to start your career in each field.
Key Takeaways
- Nursing offers diverse specialties, including critical care, oncology, pediatric, geriatric, neonatal intensive care, and travel nursing, each with unique roles, responsibilities, and work environments.
- To pursue advanced nursing roles such as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), individuals must obtain higher education, state licensure, and national certifications.
- The pathway to becoming a nurse generally includes completing nursing education (ADN, BSN, or diploma), passing the NCLEX-RN exam, gaining experience, and obtaining relevant certifications depending on the specialty.
Understanding the Role of a Registered Nurse (RN)
Registered Nurses (RNs) are the backbone of the healthcare system, playing an indispensable role in patient care and coordination. As of May 2019, nearly 4.2 million registered nurses were employed in the United States, making up a significant portion of healthcare workers. Nurses are vital in providing and coordinating person-centered care for preventive, acute, and chronic health needs and have expanded their roles to include promoting population health and creating healthier communities.
What Does a Registered Nurse Do?
Registered Nurses are responsible for:
- Assessing and examining patients
- Providing direct patient care
- Administering medications
- Performing diagnostic tests
- Executing treatment plans
- Delivering patient education
- Managing patient loads
- Creating treatment plans
- Maintaining accurate records by monitoring vital signs such as temperature, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure.
Coordination of care is another critical aspect, as RNs document medical records, organize referrals, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Where Do Registered Nurses Work?
Hospitals are the most common workplace for registered nurses. In these settings, RNs may work in specialized areas such as surgical units, ambulatory and day-surgery centers, and emergency departments. Beyond hospitals, RNs can be found in primary care settings, home health environments, and schools. They also work in areas underserved by other healthcare providers, such as federally qualified health centers and retail clinics.
School nurses, for instance, serve as a bridge between the healthcare and education systems, providing care for students.
How to Become a Registered Nurse
There are three main educational paths to become a Registered Nurse: earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), or a diploma from an approved nursing program. After completing the educational requirements, aspiring RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed.
This rigorous licensure process ensures that nurses with a nursing practice degree are well-prepared to meet the demands of their roles.
Exploring Critical Care Nursing
Critical care nurses specialize in caring for critically ill patients in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and other critical care settings. They provide specialized care using advanced technology and administer complex medications. These nurses are trained for emergency situations and tend to serious wounds, differentiating them from general registered nurses.
The role also involves advocating for patients’ wishes, such as those related to resuscitation and life support.
Responsibilities of Critical Care Nurses
Critical care nurses have a range of responsibilities, including:
- Monitoring the condition of patients attached to lifesaving equipment like ventilators and feeding tubes
- Tending to serious wounds, ensuring they are cleaned, dressed, and monitored for signs of infection
- Administering advanced medications, requiring comprehensive knowledge of drug interactions and patient responses
Work Settings for Critical Care Nurses
Critical care nurses can be found working in the following settings:
- ICUs of both public and private hospitals, where they provide specialized care for critically ill patients
- Other critical care centers
- Outpatient surgery centers
Professionals in nursing jobs, including various types of nurses, are often on the front lines during major traumatic events such as serious injuries or life-threatening illnesses, providing life-saving care when it is needed most.
Pathway to Becoming a Critical Care Nurse
To become a critical care nurse, one must:
- Earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
- Pass the NCLEX exam to earn licensure as a registered nurse
- Gain entry-level experience in critical care settings, such as in an ICU
Gaining experience in critical care settings is crucial for aspiring critical care nurses.
Additionally, obtaining certification through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) can further advance a nurse’s career.
The Role of Oncology Nurses
Nurses in the field of oncology are experts in providing specialized care and treatment for individuals dealing with cancer. They focus on offering comprehensive support and tailored medical interventions to address the unique needs of cancer patients. Some of the key responsibilities of oncology nurses include:
- Providing day-to-day care for cancer patients
- Educating patients and their families about the disease and treatment options
- Consulting with doctors and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans
- Coordinating care and ensuring that patients receive the necessary treatments and therapies
Building strong patient relationships is crucial for oncology nurses to better attend to patient needs and provide the best possible care.
They must stay informed about the latest developments in cancer research and care.
Daily Duties of Oncology Nurses
Oncology nurses are adept at:
- Assessing a patient’s physical and emotional status and developing care plans
- Administering chemotherapy correctly and managing its side effects, such as nausea and vomiting
- Educating patients and families about disease, treatment side effects, and self-care activities
This is a significant part of their role.
Effective pain control and patient education are essential skills for oncology nurses.
Work Environments for Oncology Nurses
Oncology nurses work in varied environments due to the diverse range of cancer types and patient backgrounds. The majority of oncology nurses work in:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient/ambulatory care settings
- Private oncologists’ offices
- Home care
In ambulatory settings, oncology nurses provide prescreening prior to chemotherapy and manage symptoms like fatigue.
Requirements to Become an Oncology Nurse
In order to pursue a career as an oncology nurse, individuals must:
- Successfully complete either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This educational foundation will provide the necessary qualifications to excel in this specialized field of nursing.
- After completing the educational requirements, aspiring oncology nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed.
- Additionally, candidates must meet further eligibility criteria and pass a specialized certification exam in oncology nursing.
Pediatric Nursing: Caring for Children
Pediatric nurses specialize in caring for children and provide the following services:
- Medical treatment
- Monitoring growth and development
- Working closely with pediatricians to treat a variety of medical conditions
- Administering medications and vaccinations following age-appropriate guidelines.
Pediatric nurses also play a significant role in preventive care through activities like immunizations and developmental screenings.
Job Functions of Pediatric Nurses
Pediatric nurses are responsible for caring for and monitoring children from birth to adolescence. Their duties include:
- Supporting pediatricians
- Performing physical examinations
- Diagnosing illnesses
- Developing treatment plans
- Administering medications
They must be well-versed in childhood development and how it changes through different stages like infancy or teenage years.
Typical Workplaces for Pediatric Nurses
Pediatric nurses can be found working in various settings such as:
- Hospitals
- Private pediatric offices
- Clinics
- Schools
- Government agencies
Their scope of practice encompasses a wide range of healthcare environments. They are employed in diverse settings such as doctor’s offices, clinics, hospitals, surgical centers, and schools.
In these settings, pediatric nurses provide direct patient care, working directly with children, adolescents, and teenagers to address underlying medical conditions.
Steps to Become a Pediatric Nurse
To become a pediatric nurse, you need to complete the following steps:
- Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse (RN).
- Gain experience working as an RN.
- Pursue further specialization and certification in pediatric nursing.
These steps are necessary to advance in the field of pediatric nursing.
Geriatric Nursing: Specializing in Elderly Care
Geriatric nurses specialize in the treatment of older patients, providing care for injuries or ailments, managing long-term illnesses, and maintaining their quality of life. They help elderly patients maintain independence and manage changes in their mental and physical abilities.
Geriatric nurses also educate elderly patients about personal safety and disease prevention.
Duties of Geriatric Nurses
Geriatric nurses are responsible for:
- Caring for older patients
- Anticipating future care
- Managing long-term illnesses such as cancer or Alzheimer’s disease
- Assisting with administering medications
- Measuring and recording vital signs
- Assessing patients’ mental status and cognitive skills
Additionally, they help patients with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom.
Employment Settings for Geriatric Nurses
Geriatric nurses work in various settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Senior centers
- Retirement communities
- Patients’ homes
- Residential care facilities for senior citizens
- Memory care centers
In hospitals, they often work with treatment teams in areas like outpatient surgery, cardiology, rehabilitation, and geriatric mental health.
Becoming a Geriatric Nurse
Graduate education is typically required for gerontological nurse practitioner or geriatric clinical nurse specialist roles. Gaining bedside experience, particularly in critical care for older patients, is essential for geriatric nurses.
Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing
Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses care for newborns in NICUs, addressing health issues such as prematurity, congenital disabilities, cardiac issues, infection, and other conditions. They work in hospitals with labor and delivery departments, level II nurseries, or level III nurseries.
Key Responsibilities of NICU Nurses
NICU nurses provide round-the-clock care to premature and severely ill newborn infants. Their responsibilities include:
- Performing medical procedures such as inserting intravenous lines, performing tests, and administering medications
- Assisting NICU physicians in medical procedures and treatments
- Formulating nursing plans
- Evaluating the effectiveness of treatments
NICU nurses collaborate with other medical professionals in the neonatal intensive care unit and play a crucial role in comforting sick newborns and anxious parents and family members.
Workplaces for NICU Nurses
NICU nurses usually work in hospital settings that have specialized neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). These NICUs are equipped to provide the highest level of care for newborns with serious health issues, ensuring that these vulnerable patients receive the necessary medical attention.
Path to Becoming a NICU Nurse
Becoming a NICU nurse typically requires 4-6 years of education and training. Prospective NICU nurses must:
- Obtain a college degree, usually a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Obtain a state-issued license
- Obtain additional certifications such as CCRN (neonatal) to enhance career opportunities.
Travel Nursing: Flexibility and Adventure
Travel nurses are registered nurses who work temporarily in various locations, typically through nursing staffing agencies. They bring nursing care to areas with staffing shortages due to crises, leaves of absence, or increased healthcare demand.
Travel nursing offers unique opportunities to see different parts of the country or even the world, broadening both professional and personal experiences.
What Travel Nurses Do
Travel nurses provide critical care and support during public crises and disasters. They fill gaps in staffing needs and ensure continuous patient care during periods of high demand, such as strikes or legislated nurse-to-patient ratios.
Their flexibility and adaptability are essential in maintaining healthcare services across various settings.
Where Travel Nurses Work
Travel nurses fill temporary roles in diverse healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, and in-home care services. They often work in emergency units, ICUs, medical-surgical floors, and telemetry units, particularly in rural or underserved areas experiencing nursing shortages.
States like California, Texas, New Jersey, and South Carolina frequently require travel nurses due to regional healthcare needs.
Requirements to Become a Travel Nurse
To become a travel nurse, one must generally:
- Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Obtain a valid nursing license
- Have a minimum of one or two years of clinical experience
Specializations and certifications can also boost income and placement opportunities.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) take on advanced roles in healthcare, coordinating patient care and providing both primary and specialty healthcare. This category includes nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners, each with unique responsibilities and expertise. As an advanced practice registered nurse, their role goes beyond that of registered nurses, ensuring comprehensive care for their patients.
Types of APRNs
Nurse anesthetists and nurse practitioners are examples of nursing specialties. Nurse anesthetists specialize in administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgical procedures. Nurse practitioners serve as primary and specialty care providers, performing physical examinations, ordering tests, and prescribing medications.
A nurse midwife provides medical care during prenatal care, labor and delivery, and reproductive health, often working in hospitals and birthing centers.
Roles and Responsibilities of APRNs
Public health nurses advocate for community health by teaching health information and assisting with medical care. Psychiatric nurses focus on mental health, working as integral members of mental health teams.
Cardiac nurses care for patients with cardiovascular conditions, providing education on medication and lifestyle modifications.
Educational Pathways for APRNs
APRNs must meet the following requirements:
- Earn at least a master’s degree in their specific role
- Be licensed in their state
- Pass a national certification exam to ensure they meet the high standards required for advanced practice
Continuous education and certification help APRNs stay current with medical advancements and maintain their specialized skills.
Summary
Exploring the various nursing specialties can help you find a career path that aligns with your interests and skills. Whether you’re drawn to the fast-paced environment of critical care or the rewarding challenge of oncology nursing, there is a specialty that fits your passion. By understanding the roles, responsibilities, and educational pathways for each specialty, you can make an informed decision about your nursing career and find the best nurse job for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Registered Nurse?** **?
What settings do Critical Care Nurses work in?** **?
Critical Care Nurses work in ICUs, critical care centers, and outpatient surgery centers, providing care during major traumatic events and life-threatening illnesses.
How can one become an Oncology Nurse?** **?
To become an Oncology Nurse, you should complete either an ADN or BSN program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtain specialized certification in oncology nursing. This will prepare you for a career in this field.
Where do Pediatric Nurses typically work?** **?
Pediatric Nurses typically work in hospitals, private pediatricians’ offices, clinics, schools, and government facilities, addressing a variety of medical conditions in children.
What are the educational requirements for becoming a NICU Nurse?** **?
To become a NICU Nurse, you need either an ADN or BSN, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtain relevant training and certifications, such as the CCRN (neonatal) certification. This is essential for providing care to infants in a neonatal intensive care unit.