Different types of nursing careers

When people think about different types of nursing careers they often think of becoming a rn first. It makes sense that becoming an RN would be a popular choice since registered nursese are typically the largest health care profession by far.

Since registered nurses take care of the basic duties such as treating, educating and helping perform diagnostic tests, they are in demand in all kinds of settings and in just about every type of specialty.

For those considering becoming a RN they should know that all states will require them to graduate from an approved nursing program and and pass the NCLEX which is a national licensing exam.

Click here to learn more about registered nursing schools.

Licensed Practical Nurses typically work under the direction of a registered nurse or a doctor. You probably know them as the ones who take your tempature, weigh you, check for blood pressure, etc. when you first arrive at your doctors' office.

As with registered nurses, LPNs must also pass a NCLEX exam - for them it's the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure EXamination-Practical Nurse).

You can check for LPN programs at sites such as www.dotschools.com/Nursing or Education-Advancement

Nurse practicioners are RNs that have also completed advanced degree programs such as a Master's degree.

They often perform many of the same non-emergency duties that a physician might perform.

Because of their advanced training, Nurse Practicioner salaries are generally higher than those of registered nurses. To get a fairly accurate read on nurses salary by state you can use Salary.com

My husband said he once talked to a nurse anesthetist and was stunned by the salary she made. Keep in mind that she also carried pretty hefty premiums for malpractice insurance, though. In this case, she paid the premiums herself, although more typically it's paid bye the company that the for which the CRNA (Certified registered nurse anesthetist)

Of course, it's typically not a great idea to enter a profession just for the money, but to see what he's talking about you can check Salary.com.

Training to become a nurse anesthetist is quite extensive & often quite expensive relative to more common nursing professions. In order to become a CRNA you must first complete a 4-year program in nursing or science, must be a Licensed Registered Nurse, and have additional experience in particular settings required by either the program you're in, the AANA (American Association of Nurse Anesthetists) or both.

Although the cost of becoming a nurse anesthetist can be high, you should keep in mind that you may be able to apply for and find Free nursing scholarships and that some employers may help with some portion of loan repayment for debt you incurred to become a CRNA.