15 Types Of Nursing Jobs To Consider

The nursing profession is one of the most rewarding and in-demand careers in the healthcare industry. With a wide range of specializations and work environments to choose from, nurses have the opportunity to pursue a career that aligns with their passions, skills, and interests. Whether you're just starting out or looking to transition into a new role, here are 15 types of nursing jobs to consider.

1. Registered Nurse (RN)

As the most common type of nursing job, registered nurses (RNs) provide hands-on patient care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. RNs assess patient conditions, develop care plans, and administer medications and treatments.

Specializations:

• Medical-surgical nursing
• Pediatric nursing
• Gerontological nursing
• Critical care nursing

2. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide primary and specialty care to patients. NPs diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests.

Specializations:

• Family nurse practitioner
• Pediatric nurse practitioner
• Gerontological nurse practitioner
• Acute care nurse practitioner

3. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) work under the supervision of RNs and LPNs to provide basic patient care, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. CNAs also take vital signs and assist with medical procedures.

4. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) provide basic patient care, administer medications, and perform routine medical procedures.

Specializations:

• Pediatric LPN/LVN
• Gerontological LPN/LVN
• Surgical LPN/LVN

5. Certified Midwife (CM)

Certified midwives (CMs) provide prenatal, labor, and postpartum care to women. CMs also perform routine gynecological exams and prescribe medications.

6. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery, as well as provide pain management and critical care services.

7. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nurse

NICU nurses care for newborns who are premature, critically ill, or require specialized care. NICU nurses monitor vital signs, administer medications, and perform medical procedures.

8. Operating Room (OR) Nurse

OR nurses work in surgical settings, preparing patients for surgery, maintaining a sterile environment, and assisting surgeons during procedures.

Specializations:

• Cardiovascular OR nurse
• Neurosurgical OR nurse
• Orthopedic OR nurse

9. Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurse

PICU nurses care for critically ill children who require close monitoring and life-sustaining interventions.

10. Informatics Nurse

Informatics nurses design and implement healthcare technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and telehealth platforms.

11. Clinical Research Nurse

Clinical research nurses coordinate and conduct studies to evaluate new treatments and medications.

12. Public Health Nurse

Public health nurses work in community settings, promoting health education, disease prevention, and health policy development.

13. Occupational Health Nurse

Occupational health nurses work in industry settings, providing workplace health and safety education, as well as treating work-related injuries and illnesses.

14. School Nurse

School nurses provide health education, administer medications, and treat minor injuries and illnesses in school settings.

15. Travel Nurse

Travel nurses work temporary assignments in various locations, often in areas with high demand for nursing services.

Whether you're interested in direct patient care or behind-the-scenes work, there's a nursing job that's right for you. With so many specializations and work environments to choose from, nurses have the opportunity to pursue a fulfilling and rewarding career.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your favorite nursing job or specialty in the comments below.

What is the highest-paying nursing job?

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Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are among the highest-paying nursing jobs, with median salaries ranging from $160,000 to over $200,000 per year.

What is the most in-demand nursing job?

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Nurse practitioners (NPs) are in high demand, particularly in primary care settings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 28% growth in employment opportunities for NPs through 2028.

What nursing job requires the most education?

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Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) require a doctoral degree in nursing anesthesia, as well as certification and licensure.