Career Options for Registered Nurses

Registered nurses (RNs) have a wide range of job choices. While some require more schooling, RNs have numerous well-paying and satisfying options.
The nursing profession is always changing, offering various employment opportunities for registered nurses (RNs).
With so many options, it’s easy to find a job that suits your interests.
Beyond the usual hospital roles, there are many positions for registered nurses. RNs work in doctors’ offices, home healthcare, hospice, and administration.

While RNs need an associate degree in nursing (ADN), certain nursing careers demand more education and certifications. Specialized certifications offer professional benefits and can increase your earning potential.

How to Become a Registered Nurse: A Simple Guide

If you want to become a registered nurse (RN), you’re making a great choice! RNs play a vital role in healthcare, providing care and support to patients. Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps you need to take.

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED

Your journey begins with a high school diploma or GED. Focus on science courses like biology and chemistry, as they are important for nursing.

Step 2: Choose a Nursing Program

Next, select a nursing program. You can earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN usually offers better job opportunities and can lead to leadership positions. Research accredited programs in your area.

Step 3: Complete Clinical Training

Both ADN and BSN programs include clinical training. This hands-on experience is essential, as you will work with real patients under the supervision of experienced nurses.

Step 4: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

After completing your nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam tests your knowledge and skills. Study well to ensure you pass on your first try.

Step 5: Obtain Your Nursing License

Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, you can apply for your nursing license. Each state has its own licensing board, so check the requirements in your state.

Step 6: Start Your Nursing Career

With your license in hand, you can start applying for nursing jobs. Consider different healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and schools.

Step 7: Continue Your Education

Nursing is a field that requires ongoing education. Stay updated with new practices and consider pursuing advanced degrees or certifications for career advancement.

Top Work Opportunities for Registered Nurses

If you want to enhance your nursing career, explore these opportunities:

1. Nurse in Critical Care

Critical care nurses constantly watch over patients, young and old, with life-threatening injuries or illnesses. They need strong communication skills to work with patients and other healthcare professionals. Staying composed in high-pressure situations is essential.

Minimum Education: ADN

Certification (Recommended): Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) from AACN Certification Corporation

Average Annual Salary: The average annual base salary was $71,470 as of November 2021, according to PayScale.

Outlook: The demand for critical care nurses should grow due to advances in intensive care technology and an aging population.

2. Occupational Health Nurse

Occupational health nurses (OHNs) provide health and safety programs to workers and communities. They prevent workplace injuries and illnesses while promoting employee health.

Minimum Education: ADN

Certification (Recommended): The American Board for Occupational Health Nurses offers two certifications: Certified Occupational Health Nurse (COHN) for clinical practice and Certified Occupational Health Nurse-Specialist (COHN-S) for administrative roles.

Compensation: The average annual base salary was $74,200 as of November 2021, according to PayScale.

Outlook: Occupational health nursing is one of the fastest-growing specialties.

3. Informatics Nurse

Informatics nurses blend information technology, computer science, and nursing theory to enhance patient care. They monitor, analyze, and create computer programs for clinical settings, like electronic medical records.

Minimum Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Certification (Recommended): Informatics Nursing Certification (RN-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

Compensation: The average annual base salary was $79,950 as of November 2021, according to PayScale.

Outlook: In the 2020 Nursing Informatics Workforce Survey, 49% of nurse informaticists reported earning an annual salary over $100,000.

4. Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice registered nurses specializing in reproductive healthcare. They work in birthing centers, clinics, and hospitals, assisting with gynecological care, family planning, prenatal and postpartum care, and childbirth.

Minimum Education: Master’s degree in nursing (MSN)

Certification (Required): Nurse-midwifery certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board

Compensation: Bureau of Labor Statistics data from 2020 indicates a median annual wage of $110,130.

Outlook: The BLS predicts a 45% job growth rate from 2020-2030.

5. Travel Nurse

The demand for travel nurses has surged due to the pandemic and a global nursing shortage. Travel nurses temporarily fill positions in healthcare facilities nationwide. These roles are short-term and can last from days to months.

Minimum Education: BSN

Certification: While there’s no specific certification for travel nurses, specialized credentials can open up more job opportunities.

Compensation: PayScale data from November 2021 shows an average yearly salary of $86,510.

Outlook: Nursing shortages have intensified, and travel nurses are in high demand.

6. Family Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners often specialize in areas like women’s health, oncology, or pediatrics. Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) care for patients of all ages and can serve as primary healthcare providers. Most work in family practice settings but can find roles in hospitals or clinics.

Minimum Education: MSN

Certification (Required): Available through two organizations: FNP-BC certification from the ANCC and FNP-C certification from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Compensation: As of May 2020, FNPs had a median annual wage of $111,680.

Outlook: Nurse practitioners, including FNPs, are expected to see a rapid 52% job growth rate through 2030.

7. Public Health Nurse

Public health nurses develop and implement programs to promote healthy practices and prevent disease in communities. They work with schools, clinics, and other organizations, focusing on topics like vaccination, sexual health, pregnancy, or mental health.

Minimum Education: ADN

Certification (Recommended): Certified Public Health credential from the National Board of Public Health Examiners

Compensation: As of November 2021, PHNs earned an average annual base salary of $61,210.

Outlook: Registered nurse employment opportunities in public health are expected to increase as organizations recognize the benefits of proactive health measures.

8. Geriatric and Continuing Care Nurse

Geriatric nurses specialize in treating elderly patients, often in continuing care homes and home health organizations. They collaborate with doctors, physical therapists, and families to create patient care plans and assist with daily tasks.

Minimum Education: ADN

Certification: Gerontological Nursing Certification (GERO-BC) from the ANCC

Compensation: The average annual base salary was $68,620 as of November 2021.

Outlook: The demand for geriatric nurses is growing with the aging U.S. population.

9. Oncology Nurse

Oncology nurses care for patients diagnosed with cancer, using a multidisciplinary approach that combines clinical skills with empathy and compassion. They work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, physicians’ offices, home care, and hospice.

Minimum Education: ADN

Certification (Recommended): Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) from the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation

Compensation: PayScale reports an average annual base salary of $76,350 as of November 2021.

Outlook: An aging population and advances in cancer treatment should drive demand for oncology nurses.

10. Legal Nurse Consultant

Legal nurse consultants work with law firms, healthcare facilities, and insurance companies to provide medical expertise in malpractice, liability, or personal injury cases. Their responsibilities include reviewing medical records, preparing reports, educating attorneys on medical terminology, conducting research, and providing evidence in trials.

Minimum Education: ADN

Certification (Optional): Two organizations offer certifications: the Legal Nurse Consultant Certified credential from the American Legal Nurse Consultant Certification Board and the Certified Legal Nurse Consultant certification from the National Alliance of Certified Legal Nurse Consultants.

Compensation: Reports from November 2021 indicate an average annual base salary of $79,950.

Outlook: Demand for legal nurse consultants may remain steady as firms, facilities, and companies require their medical expertise.

11. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) administer anesthesia for surgeries and medical procedures. These roles are among the highest-paid in nursing, and CRNAs work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, outpatient facilities, and dental offices.

Minimum Education: MSN

Certification (Required): CRNA credentials are available through the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists.

Compensation: CRNAs have a median annual wage of $183,580.

Outlook: Job prospects for CRNAs are promising, with a 13% job growth rate projected by the BLS from 2020-2030.

Summary of Career Options for Registered Nurses

Registered nurses (RNs) enjoy a wide array of career opportunities in the evolving nursing field. While some positions may require additional education or specialized certifications, RNs can find well-paying and fulfilling roles that align with their interests. This summary explores various career paths available to RNs, emphasizing the diverse options within the nursing profession.

Top Career Opportunities for Registered Nurses

RNs can work in various settings beyond traditional hospital roles, including doctors’ offices, home healthcare, hospice care, and administrative positions. For those pursuing nursing assignments or preparing for nursing exams, understanding these roles can provide valuable insights.

1. Critical Care Nurse: Critical care nurses monitor patients with life-threatening conditions, requiring strong communication and composure under pressure. Certification as a Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) is recommended.
2. Occupational Health Nurse: Occupational health nurses promote workplace safety and employee health, with certifications available from the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses.
3. Informatics Nurse: Combining nursing with information technology, informatics nurses enhance patient care through data management. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is typically required, along with Informatics Nursing Certification.
4. Certified Nurse Midwife: CNMs specialize in reproductive healthcare, offering services in various settings. A Master’s degree in nursing (MSN) and certification are required.
5. Travel Nurse: With the growing demand for travel nurses, these professionals fill temporary positions across the country, often earning competitive salaries.
6. Family Nurse Practitioner: FNPs provide primary healthcare to patients of all ages. An MSN and relevant certification are necessary for this role.
7. Public Health Nurse: Public health nurses focus on disease prevention and health promotion within communities. They typically hold an ADN and can benefit from public health certifications.
8. Geriatric Nurse: Specializing in elderly care, geriatric nurses work in various settings, from homes to care facilities, often requiring specific gerontological certification.
9. Oncology Nurse: Oncology nurses provide compassionate care to cancer patients, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach and often holding certifications in oncology nursing.
10. Legal Nurse Consultant: These nurses offer medical expertise in legal settings, reviewing records and educating attorneys on medical matters. Certification is optional but can enhance job prospects.
11. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs are among the highest-paid nursing professionals, administering anesthesia for various procedures. An MSN and specific certification are required.

Conclusion

The nursing profession offers a multitude of career options for registered nurses, each with its own educational requirements and earning potential. As the healthcare landscape continues to change, the demand for specialized nursing roles, such as critical care nurses, informatics nurses, and nurse practitioners, is expected to grow. For those interested in advancing their careers, exploring options for custom nursing papers or online nursing essays can provide further insight into these specialties. With a strong foundation in nursing research and a commitment to lifelong learning, RNs can successfully navigate the diverse opportunities available in the field. Whether seeking the best nursing papers for academic success or preparing for nursing assignments, understanding these career paths can lead to a rewarding nursing career.