What career options are open to nurses once they’re armed with the right qualifications?

Healthcare is one of the biggest sectors around and plays a crucial role in every nation’s economy. It is reported that 1 in 8 Americans work in the healthcare industry. That is a huge figure and shows how vibrant it is as a career. Nurses are central to this and play a vital role in giving people the treatment they need to recover from injury or illness. It is a role that allows people to show their compassionate side, which is a reason so many choose it as a career.

Nursing is also a job that has plenty of roles to consider once newly qualified with the right level of certification. But what are some of the most interesting?

Nurse Researcher

If you fancy working at the highest levels, nurse researcher is one role to think about. This usually involves identifying research questions and carrying out scientific studies to investigate them. It is an interesting role that comes with an average salary of around $90,000.

To enter this field, you would need to gain a Ph.D. in Nursing. While there are a few places you can study for this qualification, Wilkes University is a top choice. Not only do the courses contain world-class learning and support but they also are online – which is ideal for busy working nurses looking to get on in their career. Message the Wilkes University email if you would like to find out more.

Gerontological Nurse Practitioner

A high percentage of patients in the healthcare system are elderly. That creates a demand for qualified nurses who are specialists in treating them. Known as gerontological nurses, this role would see you mainly diagnosing and treating older patients. It would also see you planning out the best course of treatments for them to follow.

To move into this role, it is key to become a Certified Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, after training as a Registered Nurse. For emergency situations, it is highly recommended to have an Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certificate as well. This role is perfect if you like treating elderly patients and helping them to stay in good health as long as possible.

School Nurse

School nurse is also a good choice if you do not want to work long-term in a clinical setting and want to help kids. As you would expect, this is a varied job where every day is different. Working with kids of all ages, you would be responsible for administering the right care and passing on health education. When you add in summer vacations and more traditional working hours, it is very attractive.

Newly qualified nurses have lots of choices

Once you have gained the relevant degree or qualification in nursing, such as through a BSN program at UTA for RNs, you will find lots of career paths open up to you. This is one of the major benefits of working in the sector. As the above shows, there is something for everyone and any nursing role will give superb job satisfaction. The chance to make dealing with pain easier for others is certainly something many people get a buzz from.