According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2024, there will be a 16 percent increase in the demand for nurses, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Longer lifespans, an increase in chronic diseases, and a growing focus on preventive care are the main drivers of this. Pursuing an in-demand specialty will put you in a better position to take advantage of this anticipated growth and to increase your marketability. Continue reading to discover more about popular nursing specialties.
Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN)
A nursing professional with specialized training for a particular patient population or skill set is known as an APRN, or advanced practice registered nurse. APRNs are required to have a master's degree in nursing, a registered nurse license (RN), and clinical experience. In some states, their advanced certification entitles them to make medical diagnoses, request laboratory tests, and write prescriptions. Because of the comprehensive care they offer, APRNs frequently forge lasting relationships with their patients. APRNs not only treat patients but also instruct them on preventative healthcare.
Nurses in ambulatory care
Wherever it is necessary, ambulatory care nurses offer direct patient care in settings outside of hospitals. They are accountable for adhering to acute condition treatment plans, keeping an eye on symptoms, interacting with patients and their families, and promoting patients' general health.
Nurses in medical-surgical and telemetry
The demand for telemetry, or cardiac monitoring, is high. Nurses trained in telemetry who administer intravenous therapy drips, arterial lines, and central venous pressure lines take care of patients who require these devices. Medical-surgical unit nurses are highly skilled and committed to providing postoperative care to patients who are healing from surgery.
Nurses in the critical care unit (ICU)
Critical care nursing, also known as intensive care unit nursing, is difficult and complex. ICU nurses use advanced techniques to provide care for patients who are critically ill and facing imminent death. An ICU nurse is available to provide immediate and intensive care if a patient suffers a heart attack, stroke, or other serious medical condition.
Geriatric nursing staff
The nursing of elderly patients is referred to as geriatric nursing. In this field of medicine, medical professionals concentrate on problems that older people face, like osteoporosis and Alzheimer's disease. The fact that registered nurses have such a promising job outlook is largely due to the aging population.
Anesthetist nurse
These APRNs provide anesthesia and pain medication, monitor patients' vital signs, make adjustments, and check on them during surgery and afterward. Nurse anesthetists work with patients of all ages during routine surgery or life-threatening situations. Prior to surgery, they take patient histories and provide details on the different kinds of anesthesia that will be applied.
Travel Nurse
For varying lengths of time, these RNs move from one healthcare facility to another across the nation and occasionally abroad to fill staffing needs. Travel nurses can choose to specialize in a particular field of nursing or carry out the full range of RN tasks, including taking patient histories, evaluating symptoms, making diagnoses, and administering medication and treatment. Travel nurses accept contracts that can last anywhere from one month to two years, whether they are employed directly or through an agency.
Because of the anticipated 20% increase in the nursing shortage over the next five years, nurses are in high demand. Being a nurse is even more valuable because hospitals across the nation need your assistance. Experienced nurses who specialize in a field with a growing demand will have a wide range of employment options and the opportunity to make more money.
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