They work in collaboration with physicians and other members of the health care team to develop and implement a plan of care to help the patient achieve optimal health. Areas of Specialization Registered nurses are qualified for specialty practice at two levels - basic and advanced. These levels are differentiated by educational preparation. Advanced practice requires additional education at the master's level. There are many specialty practices in the nursing profession.
Some nurses prefer to work with patients in a particular age group such as children or older adults.
Other nurses may choose to specialize with patients who have a similar condition such as neurological disease, heart problems, pregnancy, diabetes, emotional problems, and many others. Advanced practice nurses provide care at a different level. For example, the nurse anesthetist specializes in giving anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery, the nurse midwife delivers babies, and the pediatric nurse practitioner assesses and treats children with a variety of health problems. Work Environment RNs work in a variety of settings. The majority work in hospitals as staff nurses assigned to the operating room, emergency room, maternity unit, intensive care unit, pediatric unit, psychiatric unit, or general care floors.