Nursing Careers
The world of nursing is vast and offers many paths to explore. Whether you thrive in fast-paced emergency rooms or find comfort providing long-term care, there's a nursing specialty for you! Nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices, and even schools. They specialize in pediatrics, critical care, mental health, oncology, and so much more. If you're looking for a dynamic career with the constant opportunity to make a positive impact, nursing may be the right path for you.
Careers in nursing include:
- Home health aides who assist patients with daily living activities in their home
- Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) who provide basic care like bathing, dressing, and feeding patients in hospitals and nursing homes
- Licensed Vocational or Licensed Practical Nurses (LVNs/LPNs) who monitor patients’ health, administer patient care, and provide for the basic comfort of patients
- Registered nurses (RNs) who assess patient conditions, administer medications, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop care plans
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs) who diagnose and treat a wide range of health problems, prescribe medications, and act as primary care providers
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) who administer anesthesia and provide care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures
A Typical Day in the Hospital
The ambulance doors whooshed open, and the Emergency Room team sprang into action. Marsha, the certified nursing assistant, swiftly gathered information from the paramedics as they wheeled in a young construction worker with a suspected head injury. Damon, the licensed practical nurse, assessed the incoming patient's vitals, his calm demeanor a reassuring presence.
Miguel, the seasoned registered nurse, took over - with his years of experience guiding his initial assessment. He noted the young man's sluggish reaction time and potential for a serious concussion. Miguel immediately paged Olivia, the nurse practitioner. She arrived quickly, her expertise crucial in evaluating the severity of the injury. She made the decision to send the patient for an immediate CT scan, which confirmed a moderate concussion. Olivia then prescribed medication and monitored the patient's recovery.
During the patient's ER stay, Damon assisted with pain management and Marsha kept him comfortable. Through the night, Miguel and Olivia closely tracked his recovery. Finally, after a day of close observation, the worker regained full coherence. Relief washed over the team as they prepared him for discharge.
As the patient left, a silent understanding passed between the nurses. This case, a perfect example of ER collaboration, showcased the seamless teamwork that defines emergency care. Each nurse, from certified nurse assistant to nurse practitioner, plays a vital role in the lifesaving work happening in hospitals every day.
Hear from the caregivers who make this work possible!
