Registered Nurse
A registered nurse (RN) is the glue that holds healthcare together. A nurse is a caregiver, educator and protector of a patient’s overall wellbeing.
As an RN, you work directly with patients, whether at a hospital, medical office, nursing care or other facility. You provide and coordinate patient care and educate patients and the public about various health conditions. Most importantly, you are part of a healthcare team, working with physicians and other medical professionals to make sure each patient receives the best care and treatment possible.
If nursing interests you, get a head start on math and science classes while in high school, including biology and chemistry. An RN can earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), but it’s the BSN that offers more earning potential and job responsibilities.
Once you earn a degree, you then need to successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam to be a licensed RN. NCLEX-RN covers physiological adaptation, management of care, reduction of risk potential, safety and infection control, pharmacological and parenteral therapies, basic care and comfort, psychosocial integrity and health promotion and maintenance. Most college programs provide training for the exam, but there are also review courses and booklets that are helpful.
$59,846
entry level salary estimate
$88,758
experienced level salary estimate
16,207
projected annual job openings
Many ways to make a difference.
When you think about healthcare, your thoughts likely turn to doctors and nurses, and caring for patients. Career opportunities in healthcare today are not only in high demand they are also highly diverse – spanning a range of specialist areas and different settings from home to hospital. For many healthcare positions you can get your start with a certificate, and advance your career with an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Additional In Demand Careers in Health Sciences
Sources:
Texas Labor Market Information, Texas Workforce Commission. Statewide wages by occupation, 2021. Statewide projections by occupation, 2020-2030.
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