Many people find a career in health care to be exciting and rewarding. There are scores of positions in the world of health care. Both physical and mental health care environments employ a wide range of professionals. These include but are not limited to: technicians, administrators, counselors, medical assistants, dental assistants and nurses.

What Type of Nurses are There?

There are several types of nurses. Each is identified by her degree and certification. CNAs or a Certified Nursing Assistant, perform a support role for other health care professionals such as doctors as well as other nurses. CNAs are largely responsible for patient comfort and cleanliness. LPN or Licensed Practical Nurses also assist doctors and registered nurses but do not dispense medications. RNs, or Registered Nurses are responsible for monitoring the overall condition of patients, making certain medical evaluations and dispensing medications. Registered nurses also assist in surgical procedures and work in specialized areas of medicine. ARNPs or Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners are involved in the most advanced levels of patient care. Generally, ARNPs see and evaluate a patient’s health, make certain diagnosis, prescribe and dispense medication.

What Types of Jobs are there for Nurses?

This largely depends on the certification/licensing of the medical professional. However, registered nurses are employed in a wide variety of health care positions. These professionals may be employed by physicians in private practice, hospitals, institutions of higher education, mental health facilities, rehabilitation facilities, elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, corrections facilities and in-home private care practices.

The possibilities for employment as a nurse may be overwhelming when listed, but are easily broken down. For instance, a person that enjoys working with the elderly would best fit with an in-home private practice, nursing home or assisted living facility. Those interested working with small children might consider elementary schools or hospitals. While persons wishing to work with a variety of patients might choose to work with a general practitioner in private practice.

There are other considerations when entering a career in nursing. Graduates may specialize and work in surgical settings or mental health settings. Some may work with newborns exclusively. Others may choose to become instructors at a college.

How Do I Become a Nurse?

The requirements for obtaining a degree in nursing vary by state to state. But in general, you will need at least a two year degree and a satisfactory score on the state’s board test to enter a career in nursing.