What can you do after nursing? 5 career options for RNs

The nursing profession offers a diverse range of career paths, each with its unique set of challenges and rewards. After completing their initial nursing education, many nurses seek to advance their careers by pursuing specialty certifications or advanced practice degrees. Exploring different nursing specialties allows nurses to tailor their practice to align with their interests, skills, and career aspirations.

Here are five promising career paths for nurses seeking to expand their professional horizons:

1. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery, ensuring their comfort and safety. They possess a high level of clinical expertise and work closely with surgeons and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care. CRNAs are among the highest-paid nursing professionals, enjoying a median annual salary of over $180,000.
   
   
2. Nurse Practitioner (NP): NPs provide primary and specialty care to patients across various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They have a master's degree in nursing and are authorized to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests. NPs play a crucial role in addressing the growing demand for primary care services and enjoy a median annual salary of over $110,000.
   
   
3. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): CNSs are expert nurses who provide specialized care to patients within specific populations or clinical areas. They serve as consultants for other nurses, educating them on evidence-based practices and promoting quality patient care. CNSs may specialize in areas such as oncology, cardiology, or pediatrics. The median annual salary for CNSs is over $100,000.
   
   
4. Nurse Educator: Nurse educators play a vital role in shaping the future of nursing by preparing the next generation of nurses. They teach nursing courses at colleges and universities, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide competent and compassionate care. Nurse educators often have master's degrees in nursing education and may pursue further specialization in simulation or curriculum development. The median annual salary for nurse educators is over $75,000.
   
   
5. Nursing Informatics Specialist: Nursing informatics specialists combine their nursing expertise with knowledge of technology to improve healthcare delivery. They design and implement electronic health record (EHR) systems, analyze nursing data to improve patient outcomes, and provide education and support to nurses on using technology. Nursing informatics specialists are in high demand as healthcare organizations increasingly rely on technology to enhance patient care. The median annual salary for nursing informatics specialists is over $80,000.

These five career paths represent just a fraction of the many opportunities available to nurses seeking to advance their professions. The nursing field offers many options to suit diverse interests, skills, and career goals. As nurses continue to play a critical role in healthcare delivery, their opportunities to expand their expertise and impact continue to grow.