The nursing profession is concerned with human responses to actual and potential health problems. Nurses are needed in such settings as acute care hospitals, community health agencies, homes, outreach programs, public schools, HMOs and clinics serving underprivileged, minority and rural populations.
Career opportunities are particularly good for bilingual persons or minority members.
Upon completion of additional academic and practical training, RNs may serve as surgical nurses, psychiatric nurses, public health nurses, nursing administrators, nurse educators or researchers. The nurse practitioner is an advanced practice nurse who specializes in the primary health care needs of individuals and families. Nurse practitioners are skilled health care providers who perform many of the tasks traditionally done by physicians. They can conduct complete medical examinations, diagnose and treat common acute illnesses and injuries, administer immunizations, manage chronic problems like high blood pressure and diabetes, order lab services and X-rays, prescribe drugs and counsel patients on health problems. The NP works in collaboration with physicians as well as an independent member of the health care team, working in hospitals, clinics, HMOs, private offices, nursing homes, etc.