Nurse Practitioners & Other Careers in Nursing Leadership

Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs) are the entry-level category of nurses. They provide basic patient care and perform duties such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and observing patients. LPN/LVNs work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or physician. Despite LPN/LVNs having a low barrier to entry, they are an integral part of healthcare teams.

Discover how the public health nurse profession contributes to community health and wellness—the perfect niche specialization for aspiring nurses or those considering a career shift in nursing.

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) is compelling for many people because of the relatively low barrier to entry into this growing and lucrative career. After graduating from high school or earning a GED, aspiring RNs need to complete a nursing degree. This can be in the form of a two-year associate’s of science in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN).

Clinical nurse leaders (CNLs) are vital in the healthcare system by effectively utilizing resources, improving patient outcomes, and leading interprofessional teams. These nurses bridge the gap between direct bedside care and administrative decision-making, allowing for a holistic approach to patient care.

Learn more about the steps to becoming a nurse administrator, including a step-by-step guide, educational requirements, salary, and professional certifications.

Becoming a nurse educator necessitates meeting some prerequisites, including completing a nursing education program, holding a valid nursing license, and having a minimum of two years of nursing experience. To develop education and pedagogy-related skills, most professionals in this field opt for a master’s degree in nursing with a specialization in nurse education.

To step into a nurse executive role, registered nurses must demonstrate the necessary skills to lead teams of other nurses and collaborate with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare team members. Most nurse executives have years of work experience in leadership roles such as charge nurse or nursing supervisor.

Many nurse managers are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with graduate degrees who take on more administrative leadership responsibilities and aspire to become nurse administrators.

Acute care refers to treating an illness or injury requiring immediate attention. It is typically provided in an emergency setting such as a hospital, urgent care center, or other healthcare facility.

To become an NP, nurses must first earn an associate’s of science in nursing (ASN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). These general nursing education programs prepare students to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) and obtain a registered nurse (RN) license.

Adult gerontology nurse practitioners (AGNPs) provide care to patients across their adult lifespan, from young adulthood through old age. AGNPs specialize in the unique needs of each stage of life, allowing them to provide comprehensive, individualized care.

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are an essential part of the solution to this problem. FNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who are educated and trained to provide primary care services to patients of all ages.

Forensic NPs primarily care for patients who have been victims or perpetrators of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, abuse, or crime.

Among the many providers who attend to premature babies are skilled neonatal practitioners (NNPs). Like nurses, they can monitor patients, administer medications, and educate families. However, because of their additional training and education, they have more responsibilities and autonomy. They can order diagnostic tests, interpret results, prescribe medications, and admit and discharge patients.

Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary, acute, or specialty care to infants, children, and adolescents up to the age of 21. They may also provide care to young adults with chronic health conditions that began during childhood.

Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses specially trained to care for patients with mental health conditions. They can prescribe medication, conduct therapy, provide other forms of treatment, and play an important role in educating patients and their families about mental health conditions.

Women’s health nurse practitioners (WHNPs) are specialized nurse practitioners who focus on providing comprehensive care for women throughout their lifespans. WHNPs can offer various services, from preventative care to managing chronic conditions. They play a vital role in educating women about their health and helping them make informed decisions about their care.

CNMs are also strong advocates for women’s health and well-being. They work tirelessly to promote health equity and access to quality care, and they are a powerful force in the fight against maternal mortality. CNMs are trained in both nursing and midwifery, are certified by the American College of Nurse-Midwives, and must be licensed to practice in their state. In most states, CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), although a few states only require national certification and a registered nurse (RN) license to practice.

A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who provides care to patients with complex medical needs. The work of a CNS includes everything from wellness to treating patients when they’re sick. They offer a wide range of services, including diagnosing and treating acute or chronic illnesses.

A career as a CRNA can be very rewarding. CRNAs are responsible for administering anesthesia and providing care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures. They can also provide pain management and some emergency services.

Discover the roadmap to becoming a nurse informaticist, including valuable insights on career advancement, educational routes, and lucrative salary statistics.