To those outside the medical field, it may appear that all nurses are the same. But the truth is that there are several different types of nurses, with different levels of training and education. If you are considering a career in the medical field, it may be wise to read up on what different types of nursing can entail.
The two main types of nurses are a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Registered Nurse (RN). An LPN is often considered a stepping stone on the way to becoming an RN. The training for an LPN certificate can usually be completed in one year, and is often a combination of coursework at a community or technical college and hands-on work in a hospital or similar setting. LPN’s have a more limited scope of practice than Registered Nurses, but are still a very important part of the team in a hospital or nursing home.
RN’s generally have an associate’s degree in nursing or a BSN, which is a specialized bachelor’s degree for nurses. This extra training does earn them higher pay and greater responsibility than what LPN’s are able to obtain. Most employers are requiring a bachelor’s degree for new nurses or for the potential to be promoted beyond the position of staff nurse. All registered nurses are required to be licensed in the state in which they practice and work under a physician’s supervision.
Desert Medical Careers is currently looking for more nurses in Scottsdale and Phoenix. If you are an experienced nurse searching for a new position in one of those cities, contact dmc@desmedcar.com today!