The potential for professional advancement is crucial in any career, and nursing is no exception. Nurses are an important part of the healthcare industry. Many of us consider this profession to be a bedside care role. But, since patient care has become more complex and demanding, the role of nurses has also evolved.
With the advancement of healthcare education and specialized training programs, nurses can take on more leadership roles, thus reducing the shortage of physicians. Let’s explore what credentials are needed to advance your nursing career and what opportunities are there.
Gain Higher Nursing Education
Educational advancement is the primary step to gaining further ground in your profession. If you feel like you’re ready to advance your career in nursing and transition to a more decision-making role, start by researching RN to MSN nurse practitioner courses. A master’s qualification helps you switch to Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) roles. In such roles, you can lead others, including registered nurses, health care professionals, staff, students, community members, and partners.
Besides the leadership opportunities, ARPNs also get monetary advantages. They can earn nearly $39,000 more per annum as compared to the RNs. The job growth stats also read 52% from 2020 to 2030, which is greater than any other occupation stated by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Advanced Practicing Roles For Nurses
Source: Freepik
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Nurse anesthetists are among the highest-paid professionals in the nursing profession. You could earn well over six figures annually. A CRNA provides anesthesia during obstetric, surgical, and diagnostic procedures, and also practices independently in many settings.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
FNPs are responsible for providing a range of primary care services. If you love to connect with people, this role is for you. FNPs are often the first point of contact in community clinics as well as private practices. They are qualified to make diagnoses, prescribe medication, and manage treatment plans for their patients.
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
CNM is a dream path for those who have a soft spot for mothers and babies. CNMs handle all stages of prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal care. They also deliver gynecological services and wellness education for women.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
PMHNP specializes in mental health care. Their training allows them to diagnose, treat, and even prescribe medication to their patients. With growing mental health concerns, these practitioners are in high demand.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
As the name suggests, a CNS specializes in a particular healthcare area. They can get advanced education in oncology, pediatrics, women’s health, geriatrics, and critical care. This specialization allows them to make diagnoses, recommend treatment, and manage follow-ups.
Leadership And Management Roles
A large number of nurses choose managerial positions after gaining a Master’s in Nursing.
Nurse Manager
Nurse managers or Clinical nurse leaders are responsible for managing teams, coordinating care delivery, and implementing improvements. This is a great path for those who love to lead other nurses and health care staff.
Director Of Nursing
The Director holds the authority of the whole department. They manage staffing, budgets, cross-department collaboration, and also maintain healthcare standards. They are an indispensable part, particularly in large healthcare settings, because managing departments is crucial.
Chief Nursing Officers (CNO)
CNOs are the executive leaders responsible for high-level decision-making and representing the complete nursing workforce in the boardrooms. They can influence everything from organizational policies to healthcare technology adoption.
Specialized Non-Clinical Nursing Careers
Nursing Educator
Nurse Educators teach students and nurses in academic as well as clinical settings. They are not only responsible for assessing student performance but also for conducting nursing research and improving educational programs to better align with modern healthcare needs.
Nursing Informatics Specialist
An informatics specialist is a more technical role where you analyze patient data, manage online health records, and also utilize new medical technologies in your healthcare setting.
Occupation Health Nurse (OHN)
OHN is a specialized role responsible for worker health and safety. They help prevent injuries and promote wellness among occupational staff, from construction workers to corporate workers. Being an OHN means you’ll act as a clinician, educator, and consultant to provide quality care.
The nursing profession has evolved significantly in recent years and is bound to grow even further in the coming years. The earning potential and career stability are also unmatched compared to other professions. The key is to gain further educational qualifications and play a more leading role in your profession.
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