Registered Nurse Careers

by Christine Anderson

Nursing is one of the most indispensible professions in the health care industry, and one of the largest health-care professions today.  As advocates of health education, while providing direct patient care, nurses work in collaboration with physicians and doctors to perform treatments, patient examinations, medicine administration, and patient rehabilitation. 

Because of the advancements in medicine and technology, nurses are always training and learning new techniques and skills.  Opportunities for registered nurses with advanced education are plentiful.  In integrated healthcare networks, registered nurses typically get careers in clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, home health, occupational health, and even get leadership positions.  

The earning potential of registered nurses is high, with a median of $21.49 an hour in 2002.  Registered nurses employed full-time in hospitals earned a median annual salary of approximately $44,700 in the same year, while registered clinical nurses earned $60,900.  You know you will be greatly appreciated in a registered nurse career.