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As seen in the news, healthcare professionals are in serious demand these days. And with hospitals all over the country experiencing huge shortages of nurses, this is the perfect time and opportunity to become a registered nurse. Thankfully, for those that wish to pursue careers as a certified RN, they can now be obtained in a quicker and more cost-effective manner.
It’s been said that nursing is one of the most noble jobs on the planet. In fact, medical professionals have been helping and healing people in a variety of ways for thousands of years, including offering physical and mental support when needed.For individuals that are interested in pursuing a career in nursing, there are a number of ways worth checking out in order to turn those dreams into reality. This article will analyze the different types of degrees one can attain in the nursing field, as well as how that can influence their future careers, going forward.
In the not so far future, there is set to be a big boost in available nursing jobs, probably starting within the next decade or so. And it can even be said that because this position is so in demand, it’s a profession that is both attractive and thrilling to many.
Here Are the Types of Nursing Areas
There are four specific branches of nursing that fall under the nursing umbrella that individuals can pursue. Each one also has its own set of specifications too, of course. These branches include Registered Nurse (RN), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Nursing Assistant (CNA), and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Just like a number of other professions, salaries may increase depending on whether they have earned a higher education or degree. For instance, there’s a bigger chance that an individual that has an Associates or Bachelor’s degree won’t make as much money as someone that has a Master’s degree.
Of course, it is important to do the research when looking for the best nursing program to take. Some tips are to speak to people that are in the same field or profession, study each and every program meticulously, and file all the information accordingly. That way, it will give you the chance to look through all the options to see which choice would be best for you and your future career.
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First Option: RN School
Getting a position as a nursing assistant is actually the lowest level that someone can get in the nursing profession. But on the bright side, it’s one that does not require too much formal education or a ton of money to obtain. Individuals can get their nursing assistant degrees from trade schools, technical colleges, and community colleges as well. After they finish the required coursework, they will just need to pass the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) exam so that they can receive their NA certification.
As for getting an RN (Registered Nurse) degree, it takes a much longer time in school, but of course the future financial benefits and rewards can be quite worth it. RN’s also hold more responsibility in comparison to CNA’s, as they are able to prepare personalized plans for each patient they handle. In some instances, this even involves dolling out medication to patients as well.
When it comes to a degree, most RN’s will require a Bachelor’s degree in a related medical field. Although some can get an Associate’s degree, it isn’t always enough for some of the more prestigious hospitals when it comes to hiring their RN’s. In the state of California, the average salary of an RN is $102,700, which is considered the highest annual salary for a registered nurse in any state. Meanwhile in South Dakota, RN’s take home an average of $57,010 per year, making it the lowest of any state.
Another option would be to become an APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse). For those that want to achieve this position, they must first complete their Masters of Science in Nursing. They must also complete a degree as an RN before pursing advanced studies to move further up in the nursing field. Unlike the other programs that handle more of a general field of nursing, APRN’s are considered specialized in the nursing field.
Second Option: Licensed School
Yet another path for those that dream to be in the nursing industry is to become an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). Comparable to being a nursing assistant, those that wish to pursue this career can do so through community college or a technical school, where they can receive a Practical Nursing Degree. This program lasts for one year, followed by the National Council License Exam. If they pass it, they will receive a certification that will give them the status of a Licensed Practical Nurse.
