Most people realize from hearing the news or reading the paper that RNs are in demand. Did you also know what they represent, in the health care industry, the biggest vocation? You may think of an RN as someone who gives you shots in your doctors office or who records you symptoms at the hospital, but they can do many other things as well.
Advancement to supervisor is common for many RNs during their career. This path is not for everyone though as many people do not enjoy managing others and those types of registered nurses are usually happier working directly with patients.
Working in the emergency room or in surgery is how many think of an RN career. While a significant number or RNs do work in hospitals they do not just work in the more common departments. Hospitals have many specialized departments such as maternity and pediatrics.
Some nurses work at Doctors office or in a medical center and assist the doctor. Other nurses may only work in a laboratory setting.
After someone leaves the hospital from surgery they may need to have a home health nurse visit their house to assist them. These types of nurses may work independently assisting many types of patients.
Other places registered nurses work include the government and private organizations. These entities may hire nurses for public health work. Other nurses may work for companies in certain industries at the place of employment to provide emergency assistance and to give exams to employees.
Ordering supplies and maintaining the medical equipment may be a job responsibility for head nurses. They also manage nurses under them and plan their schedules.
Many registered nurses wish to advance their career but not in a management role as they may enjoy working with patients more closely as opposed to managing staff. These nurses may consider becoming a nurse practitioner or becoming a specialist such as a clinical nurse specialist.