Types of Nursing Jobs and Salaries
When we think of nursing, we often think of bedside care in a hospital; however, there are many other options in the nursing field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a general registered nurse is $75,330. Depending on the field of nursing, or your education, your salary could be much higher. Check out a few of the top-paying nursing jobs and the education you need for each role.
Nurse Anesthetists
Nurse anesthetists administer anesthesia and provide care during, before, and after surgical procedures. They may also provide pain management and some emergency services if needed. Most nurse anesthetists work in a hospital setting or in a surgical outpatient office.
Education: Nurse anesthetists need a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a nursing field. For admission to an accredited nurse anesthetist program, candidates must have at least one year’s experience working as a registered nurse in a surgical setting.
Salary: The average salary for nurse anesthetists is $183,530 per year.
Job Outlook: Employment is expected to grow 13 percent by 2030.
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners provide advanced nursing care to patients in a general or specialty care setting. They assess patients, determine treatment, provide care, and if needed, consult with physicians and other health professionals.
Education: Nurse practitioners must have at least a master’s degree in their field, and need to be licensed registered nurses in the state in which they reside. There are several different certifications for nurse practitioners that vary state-to-state and need to be renewed periodically throughout their career. Work experience as a registered nurse will make you a great candidate for a master’s degree program.
Salary: The average salary for nurse practitioners is $111,680 per year.
Job Outlook: Employment is expected to grow 52 percent by 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Pain Management Nurse
Pain management nurses work in a hospital setting or outpatient care area and help to identify the cause of a patient’s pain and determine treatment options. They are also responsible for educating the patient and family on pain medication.
Education: To become a pain management nurse, you must be a licensed registered nurse with considerable experience in a hospital or clinical setting. Some facilities require pain management nurses to earn a nurse practitioner certificate for pain management.
Salary: The average salary for pain management nurses is about $94,00 per year.
Job Outlook: Employment is expected to grow 7 percent by 2029.
Choosing Your Specialization
There are many options for nurses, and the best way to know what specialization is for you is through experience. Earn your nursing degree and get into the field to explore your options. Whether you are treating infants, working in a nursing care facility, or specializing in something unique, a career in nursing is both financially and emotionally rewarding.
