Learn About Being a Nurse

Considering Nursing?

Nursing is the largest health care profession in the US, with over 2.9 million RNs nationwide. Because nurses are involved in every type of health care need from basic health to acute care, every nurse has followed a specific path of education to become an RN and develop an expertise.

Not sure where you fit? This guide was designed to educate you about our profession and help you identify the path to becoming a nurse that calls to you!

Nursing In America

• 2.4 million Registered Nurses
• 92% Percentage of RNs That are Women
• 624,000 Projected growth in RNs (2002 – 2012)

What do Nurses do?

Although work settings and clinical populations may differ, all nurses are trained to perform the following duties:

Treat patients and alleviate their suffering 

Educate patients and families about care and wellness

Provide emotional support to patients’ family members

Record patients’ medical histories and monitor symptoms

Help perform diagnostic tests and medical procedures

Operate medical machinery

Administer treatments and medication

Where do Nurses Work?

Hospitals 56% 

Community Health Clinics 14.9%

Ambulatory Care 11.5%

Nursing Homes 6.3%

Nursing Education 2.6%

What Advanced Nursing Careers Are There?

An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a global term used for the following specialization areas. All APRNs have a masters degree and met clinical practice requirements for their specialization.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Nurse practitioners are able to deliver a wide range of primary care, preventive health, and women’s health care services, prescribe medication, and diagnose and treat common minor illnesses and injuries.

Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Nurse-Midwives provide well-woman gynecological and low-risk obstetrical care. 

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Include specialization in treating various physical and mental health problems, and also work in consultation, research, education, and administration.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) Administer more than 65% of anesthetics given to patients annually.

Explore Nursinglink.

Meet RNs and ask questions about their work, interests, likes and dislikes. This may teach you the most!