Nursing is a diverse and rewarding profession that offers various career opportunities to healthcare providers who are indeed built to withstand labor pressure; with the burgeoning population not declining and skilled nursing professionals in high demand, the types of careers in nursing present exceptional opportunities for patient-care-occupied individuals.
Whether you are a CNA or have healthcare experience and would like to make progress in your career, understanding the different types of careers in nursing can help you make the right career choices that correspond to your interests and life’s purpose.
This blog guides you toward progressing from a CNA to a Nurse Practitioner and the other types of nurses you can become. Nursing is a diverse career, and numerous opportunities in specialized areas can fit individuals’ strengths, interests, and career goals. Indeed, the types of careers in nursing are characterized by professional flexibility, a variety of specialization options, and, above all, personal and professional improvement.
Understanding the different types of careers in nursing for a CNA
Nursing provides various career options, which demand varied skills, training, and education. This can enable you to determine the most appropriate role according to your interests and experience. Whether you are beginning in the field or want to progress into a new profession, multiple opportunities are available to grow. From entry-level to advanced specialized positions, the careers in nursing are evolving and fulfilling, with numerous opportunities for a Certified Nurse Assistant.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
LPNs/LVNs offer more advanced care than CNAs, including wound care and giving medications. This role requires completing an accredited program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
Registered Nurse (RN)
RNs play a key role in patient care by managing treatment plans, coordinating with doctors, and supervising CNAs and LPNs. To become an RN, one must earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. For those who have gained experience as RNs, various specialties allow them to focus on specific patient populations or conditions:
- Critical Care Nurse – Works in intensive care units (ICUs) handling critical patients.
- Pediatric Nurse – Provides care for infants, children, and adolescents.
- Oncology Nurse – Specializes in caring for cancer patients.
- Geriatric Nurse – Focuses on elderly patient care.
- Psychiatric Nurse – Works with patients dealing with mental health disorders.
- Travel Nurse – Takes short-term assignments in various locations
Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs)
APRNs hold advanced degrees and can perform specialized roles, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and providing specialized patient care. These highly trained professionals are vital in enhancing healthcare outcomes and expanding access to quality medical services. They include:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Diagnoses illnesses, prescribes medications, and provides primary or specialized care.
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) – Administers anesthesia during surgeries.
- Nurse Midwife (CNM) – Provides maternity care, including prenatal, labor, and postpartum services.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) – Specializes in improving patient care within specific medical fields.
The CNA to nurse practitioner journey: step-by-step guide
Becoming a CNA
The initial step for those new to the nursing field is to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). CNAs undergo a state-certified training program and certification test to enter the healthcare environment. This provides necessary hands-on experience and exposure to the types of careers in nursing.
Advancing to LPN/LVN (Optional Step)
Some CNAs choose to become LPNs/LVNs before pursuing an RN degree. This step allows for increased responsibilities and better pay while gaining experience in patient care.
Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN)
The next major step in moving from a CNA to a Nurse Practitioner is becoming an RN. There are two main pathways:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A quicker route, typically taking two years.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year program providing more job opportunities and earning potential.
After completing either program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required to obtain RN licensure.
Gaining clinical experience and specializing
Most Nurse Practitioner programs require applicants to have experience working as an RN. During this period, RNs can explore the different types of nurses and choose a specialty that aligns with their interests and career goals.
Pursuing an advanced degree (MSN or DNP)
To become an NP, nurses must complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. These programs provide advanced training in diagnosis, treatment, and patient management.
Obtaining NP certification and licensure
After completing an NP program, candidates must pass a national certification exam in their chosen specialty. Once certified, they can apply for state licensure to begin practicing as a Nurse Practitioner.
Career growth and opportunities for nurse practitioners
Areas of specialization for NPs
Nurse practitioners have the opportunity to specialize in a diverse array of fields, enabling them to focus their expertise on areas such as
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) – Provides primary care for patients of all ages.
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) – Emergency works and critical care settings.
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) – Focuses on mental health treatment.
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) – Specializes in child healthcare.
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) – Concentrates on women’s health services.
What are the benefits of becoming a nurse practitioner?
Higher earning potential compared to RNs
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) enjoy significantly higher salaries than Registered Nurses (RNs). According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for NPs was $126,260 as of May 2023, while RNs earned a median yearly salary of $86,070 during the same period. This substantial increase in earning potential reflects the advanced education, specialized skills, and expanded clinical responsibilities that NPs possess. Based on the table with data highlights both the steady increase in Nurse Practitioner salaries over the past five years and the states offering the highest compensation in 2023.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Increased autonomy in diagnosing and treating patients – NPs have greater independence in clinical decision-making than RNs. They are authorized to diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications. This level of autonomy enhances the ability to provide comprehensive patient care and improves healthcare outcomes.
- Opportunities for leadership roles and research – With advanced education and clinical expertise, NPs are well-positioned to assume leadership roles within healthcare organizations. They often engage in clinical research, contribute to evidence-based practice, and participate in policy development.
- Ability to work in various healthcare settings – NPs can practice in diverse healthcare environments, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, and community health centers, allowing them to serve different patient populations.
- Further career advancement options – NPs can pursue additional certifications, leadership roles, or a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) to influence healthcare policies and administration
Why MedCadre is the smarter choice for nursing career growth
Choosing the right staffing partner can significantly impact healthcare services’ efficiency, cost, and quality. Traditional hiring agencies often have drawbacks such as high placement fees, slow recruitment processes, and inconsistent compliance verification, leading to unnecessary administrative burdens and financial strain. In contrast, MedCadre offers a streamlined, technology-driven staffing solution to eliminate these inefficiencies.
MedCadre stands out by providing a cost-effective, transparent, and highly efficient hiring process tailored to the needs of healthcare facilities. With advanced AI-driven candidate matching, rigorous credential verification, and complete regulatory compliance management, MedCadre ensures you hire top-tier nursing professionals without delays or excessive costs. Their seamless payroll integration and onboarding support further reduce administrative workload, allowing facilities to focus on delivering quality patient care.
For healthcare professionals seeking rewarding career opportunities in the diverse types of careers in nursing, MedCadre’s careers page provides a wide range of job openings across various specialties. Whether you are an experienced nurse practitioner or an aspiring Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) looking for career growth, MedCadre connects you with the right opportunities that align with your skills and aspirations. This includes roles for different types of nurses, such as pediatric nurses, oncology nurses, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. To do this, you need to submit a resume with some basic details.
Beyond just staffing, MedCadre prioritizes long-term partnerships by understanding the unique needs of each healthcare facility and delivering customized solutions. Their proactive approach to recruitment, compliance management, and credentialing ensures a hassle-free hiring experience. With a focus on quality, efficiency, and affordability, MedCadre stands out as the superior choice, allowing healthcare providers to concentrate on what truly matters—delivering exceptional patient care. This is particularly beneficial for those transitioning from a CNA to a Nurse Practitioner, as it offers a supportive environment for career advancement.
FAQs
What is the best way to advance from a CNA to a nurse practitioner?
Advancing from a CNA to a Nurse Practitioner involves becoming an RN, gaining experience, and earning an MSN or DNP, which are part of the broader types of careers in nursing.
Do I need a bachelor’s degree to become a nurse practitioner?
While most Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs typically require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), many also provide RN-to-MSN bridge programs, allowing registered nurses to advance their education and explore diverse nursing career paths seamlessly.
What are the key benefits of becoming a nurse practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners benefit from exceptional career flexibility, competitive salaries, and diverse specialization opportunities, which set them apart from other nursing roles and enable them to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.
Does MedCadre provide support for finding NP job opportunities?
MedCadre bridges the gap between Nurse Practitioners and leading healthcare employers, offering seamless support for professionals transitioning from a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) role to becoming a Nurse Practitioner.
What makes MedCadre different from other healthcare staffing platforms?
MedCadre leverages advanced AI-driven matching technology to connect nursing professionals with suitable career opportunities, providing highly personalized and precise job placements in the nursing field.
