Nursing Jobs at Home and Abroad

Healthcare facilities need to fill nursing jobs on a regular basis. The field of nursing is experiencing dramatic job growth from entry level nursing assistant jobs to registered nursing positions. The demand for nurses is not just domestic: nursing jobs abroad are also possible.

Education

The level of education needed for nursing jobs varies with the position. Nursing assistant jobs often only require a high school diploma and the completion of a nursing assistant training program. Some states, however, require a nursing assistance certification.
 
At the other end of the spectrum, registered nursing jobs (RNs) require a degree from an accredited nursing program. Registered nursing degrees may be bachelor’s degrees or associate’s degrees. In addition to a degree, candidates must take and pass a licensing exam to become an RN. Additional training and certification is required to move into administrative positions or specialized nursing jobs.

Nursing Assistant Jobs

Nursing assistant jobs are available in both hospitals and nursing homes. Nursing assistant jobs are entry-level positions. Starting as an assistant is a good way to determine if a career in nursing is for you. Examples of the type of work required as a nurse’s assistant include:
  • administering medicine under the supervision of a nurse or doctor
  • cleaning rooms and making beds
  • clerical work
  • collecting samples
  • helping patients with daily living
  • moving patients
  • preparing and delivering meals
  • recording vital signs
  • setting-up and monitoring equipment
  • stocking treatment trays.
 

Registered Nursing Jobs

Registered nursing jobs center around patient care and education. A registered nurse’s responsibilities include such duties as:
  • administrating medication and treatment
  • helping perform diagnostic tests
  • operating medical equipment
  • patient rehabilitation
  • providing emotional support to patients and family members
  • recording medical histories and symptoms
  • reporting patient status to doctors
  • starting and monitoring intravenous lines.
 
Registered nurses jobs can be highly specialized. Like doctors, registered nurses can choose to focus on one specific area of medicine, such as pediatrics, cancer care or addiction treatment.
 
In addition to hospitals and extended care facilities, registered nursing jobs are available in doctor’s offices, rehabilitation clinics, medical centers and home health care facilities. Administrative positions for nursing staff usually require experience as a registered nurse.

Travel Nursing Jobs

The demand for qualified nurses is by no means limited to the domestic job market. Nursing jobs abroad are always available, and many international positions specialize in travel nursing jobs.
 
Nursing jobs abroad can be fulfilling and profitable positions, although it is important to consider the medical standards and safety of the country when seeking jobs in nursing.

Specialized Nursing Jobs

Some nursing jobs require extra education or special training. Such jobs often require experience as a registered nurse as a pre-requisite. Examples of specialized nursing jobs include:
  • case manager nurse
  • critical care nurse
  • emergency nurse (trauma nurse)
  • hematology nurse
  • holistic nurse
  • labor and delivery nurse
  • neo-natal intensive care nurse
  • nurse anesthesiologist
  • nurse practitioner
  • ob/gyn nurse
  • oncology nurse
  • operating room nurse
  • pediatric nurse
  • psychiatric nurse
  • rehabilitation nurse
  • respiratory nurse (pulmonary care nurse)
  • school nurse
  • travel nurse.
 

Working Conditions

Nursing jobs are usually (although not always) in medical facilities. Nursing assistants often handle the simpler and time consuming tasks, including cleaning up after patients. High standards of cleanliness and professionalism are expected from all nurses.
 
Nursing jobs in hospitals and nursing facilities require working "shift" hours, which includes the night-shift. Nursing jobs in schools and doctors' offices are more likely to work regular hours.

Professional Nursing Associations

The following professional associations and groups are available to nurses:
  • American Association of Colleges in Nursing
  • American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
  • American Board of Occupational Health Nurses
  • American College of Nurse Practitioners
  • American Nurses Association
  • International Council of Nurses
  • National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists.
 
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