The nursing profession is experiencing a boom. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, by the year 2020 the demand for nurses will increase by 36 percent. Within the field, there are a few specialties that are growing at higher rates than others. Here are five nursing jobs that top the industry.
1. Certified Nurse Midwife
Besides delivering babies, a certified nurse midwife deals with a variety of women’s health issues. For instance, a midwife may perform conventional gynecological exams during wellness checkups. Since this career often deals with personal issues, a professional in this field must be patient, compassionate, and friendly. To earn a Certified Midwife degree, it is necessary to complete an accredited program and pass a national exam. After receiving certification, a person may work in a private practice, hospital, or birthing center. In most states, a nurse midwife reports to physicians on a regular basis.
2. Certified Dialysis Nurse
Dialysis is a procedure used on patients with failing kidneys. Special machines perform the functions of natural organs. A certified dialysis nurse cares for patients with kidney disease or similar conditions. In this nursing field, a professional assess vital signs, monitors reactions to treatments, answers questions, and oversees all dialysis treatments. During hemodialysis, this nurse must know how to operate dialysis machines, keep catheter ports open, and change dressings. With peritoneal dialysis, a nurse must visit a person’s home and monitor fluid exchange through a permanent catheter. A dialysis nurse tends to form strong bonds and long-term relationships with patients. Besides clinical duties, a dialysis nurse must help patients and their families deal with the emotional and physical ramifications of the procedure.
3. Home Healthcare Nurse
As increasing numbers of seniors are living in their homes longer, there is a high demand for nurses who visit residences and provide care. Also, a number of parents caring for infants and children with special medical conditions require at-home medical assistance. A home healthcare nurse is a medical professional who offers services to patients recovering from hospital stays, disabled individuals, or anyone who needs assistance managing medications.
This career is ideal for a nurse who does not want to be confined to a hospital or doctor’s office. It is rewarding, especially when care helps a patient regain physical independence. To become a home healthcare nurse, it is essential to receive a nursing diploma, and a candidate must pass a national exam.
4. Nurse Instructor
A nursing instructor educates students about modern medical practices. It is the ideal career choice for a nurse who prefers classroom activities over working with patients on a day-to-day basis. This professional plans, develops, and teaches nursing courses. A bachelor’s degree is necessary, and a candidate must have solid critical-thinking and judgment skills.
5. Certified Nursing Anesthetist
A certified nursing anesthetist is an advanced-practice nurse who administers anesthesia and provides care during various operations. In collaboration with surgeons, dentists, and other qualified medical professionals, this nurse makes sure procedures are as painless as possible. A nursing anesthetist can work in a variety of settings, including hospital surgery rooms, maternal delivery suites, ambulatory centers, doctor’s offices, and other healthcare facilities. During procedures, this nurse monitors vital signs and maintains a safe level of anesthesia. After surgery, this nurse checks on patients to make sure they awaken without complications. To enter this field, a candidate must have a BSN degree and registered nurse status. Many programs require a few years of acute nursing experience, and candidates must pass a national certification test.
Related Resource: Top 30 Online Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degrees Ranked by Student-Faculty Ratio
Nurses play a vital role in the medical industry. It is a profession that is scheduled to grow well into the future. The above jobs are just five choices that are in high demand and bring a number of employment opportunities, which deliver high salary potential and gratification from helping others.