Nursing, an Occupation Full of Advancement Opportunities

October 22nd, 2009

It is no surprise that nursing in an in-demand industry. Not only are people trying to find their way into it, many nursing professionals are trying to qualify for more demanding jobs so that they can move up within it. When it comes to advancement opportunities that will lead to larger job roles and larger paychecks, the key is education.

A Licensed Practical Nurse is one who has completed a State-approved training program in practical nursing, from a technical school, hospital, vocational school, community college, university, or junior college. Those who are licensed have also passed the NCLEX-PN, which covers a variety of client needs. Mostly generalist, when it comes to all areas of health care, LPNs provide basic bedside care for patients. Because of their limited education, they must work under the supervision of a registered nurse or a physician. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wages of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in May 2008 were $39,030. Taking into consideration salary, as well as the limitations on an LPN’s role, it’s not surprising that some LPNs choose to advance in their careers by enrolling in LPN to RN training programs.

A Registered Nurse is one who has earned a bachelor’s of science in nursing, an associate degree in nursing, or a nursing diploma. These types of programs are typically offered at colleges, universities, community colleges, junior colleges, or hospitals. After graduating from one of these programs they must pass the NCLEX-RN, in order to obtain a nursing license. RN’s treat and educate patients about medical conditions, along with routine duties like recording medical histories, performing diagnostic tests, analyzing results, administering treatment, and helping with patient follow-up. According to Salary.com, the median expected salary for the average RN staff nurse ranges from $58,414 to $70,620, but that can differ depending on experience, location, and specialty. Nurses who really want to advance in their field continue their nursing education on a higher level.

An Advanced Practice Nurse is one who has earned at least a master’s degree in nursing. They choose to become one of four types of APNs, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, nurse-midwives, and nurse practitioners. These types of nurses have the freedom to work more independently, collaborate with other physicians, provide primary care services, and most have the ability to prescribe medicine. According to PayScale, an APN with one to four years of experience can earn a median salary of $96,725, but annual salaries can differ according to specialty and experience.

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