Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients’ family members. RNs can specialize in one or more areas of patient care. The career outlook for nurses is very positive. Registered nurses are expected to enjoy a rapid increase in employment levels in the coming years.

Nursing school programs vary in length and intensity depending on the desired degree or certification. A college degree in nursing provides the opportunity for personal growth and professional development in this vital and exciting field. Students with college degrees in nursing will be prepared for a wide variety of professional opportunities in the field. The bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) is the recommended professional degree for registered nurses. Read the rest of this entry →

Nurses work to promote health, prevent disease and help patients cope with illness. They are advocates and health educators for patients, families and communities. The public health nurse provides a generalized public health nursing service to communities, aggregates, groups, families and individuals throughout the life cycle for purpose of promotion of health and prevention of illness and injury.

Community and public health nurses work with individuals, families and groups, focusing on populations to improve the overall health of the public.

Nurses who have chosen careers in community and public health don’t just make a difference in individual patients’ lives. They impact entire communities, and this is what drives them forward to meet tough challenges. Occupational health nurses seek to prevent job-related injuries and illnesses, provide monitoring and emergency care services, and help employers implement health and safety standards. Read the rest of this entry →