Nursing Professions

There are many nursing professions to pursue as you explore a career in healthcare. Each job requires specialty knowledge in order to serve a specific section of the patient population and healthcare system as a whole. While the duties differ from role to role, each job puts delivering optimal care at the center.

When most people think of a nurse, they envision someone at the bedside who interacts with patients and provides direct care. This can take the form of administering medication, educating a patient’s family members, evaluating test results, and more. These direct care jobs are separated by specialty so as to serve patients that have conditions requiring advanced knowledge.

For example, NICU nurses work with infants in intensive care at a hospital, clinic, or medical center, among other facilities. In contrast, oncology nurses specialize in cancer care, while hospice nurses work with patients who are at the end-of-life stage. While the tasks of these nursing professions vary, almost all nurses who specialize must obtain training and become certified in their respective areas as a way to demonstrate their experience.

While there are certainly many different types of jobs at the bedside, there are also plenty of positions beyond that in administration. These roles are critical to the seamless functioning of healthcare organizations and can include budgeting and financial duties, creating policies and compliance protocol, as well as overseeing personnel issues.

What Type of Nurse Should I Be?

Before making any decisions about your career path, take some time to learn about the many types of nurses and what they do. If you want to provide direct care to patients, you’ll be more prone to bedside roles. But if you are interested in helping to run healthcare organizations, there’s lots to explore on the administrative side of nursing that will make good use of your skills.

In addition to the different nursing professions, there are also myriad workplaces that can employ you. From skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities to work-from-home options and travel nursing, you can find an environment that best suits your interests.

Get a Closer Look at Nursing Professions

When it comes to a career in nursing, you’ve got many options to choose from. Ready to find the one that could be a good fit? Our articles can help you determine which to pursue for a fulfilling career. Get started today.