RNs Are In Demand - Is It Your Dream Job?
Wednesday, July 16th, 2008
First off what does a registered nurse do? Like most careers, it depends on what type of job the RN is doing, as there are many options available. Generally when most people think about RNs they see them directly working with patients such as in a hospital or doctors office.
Advancement to supervisor is common for many RNs during their career. This path is not for everyone though as many people do not enjoy managing others and those types of registered nurses are usually happier working directly with patients.
A significant number of registered nurses work at hospitals in one of several different departments. Many people may think of the emergency room or the maternity ward but there are many other specialized departments such as pediatrics.
Some nurses work at Doctors office or in a medical center and assist the doctor. Other nurses may only work in a laboratory setting.
Certain types of patients need personal care at home and as such home health nurses go to their home to provide care. These patients have generally recently come out of surgery or are older or newborns. They may also have cancer or a terminal illness.
Where else do nurses work? Nurses may also work for companies as industrial nurses and occupational health nurses. Or they may work for the government or a private organization for public health.
Ordering supplies and maintaining the medical equipment may be a job responsibility for head nurses. They also manage nurses under them and plan their schedules.
Many registered nurses wish to advance their career but not in a management role as they may enjoy working with patients more closely as opposed to managing staff. These nurses may consider becoming a nurse practitioner or becoming a specialist such as a clinical nurse specialist.