About Career Development in Nursing
As the demand for nursing professionals increases each year, career development is recognized and rewarded by employers, and can increase salaries. Obtaining higher degrees, training and certifications can advance nursing careers.
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Basic Certifications
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Many employers require certifications such as basic, advanced and pediatric advanced life support (BLS, ALS and PALS, respectively) in certain speciality areas. These basic certifications may advance careers into a specialty area of interest.
Post-Graduate Studies
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After receiving a bachelor's degree in nursing, continuing education in nursing allows additional career options. Post-graduate studies such as a master's degree qualifies a nurse as an advanced nurse practitioner and allows them to practice in a wide range of specialty areas.
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Advanced Certifications
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Many organizations highly regard specialized and advanced certifications that are offered through national associations such as the American Nursing Credentialing Center (ANCC). They require nursing experience, additional training and an exam to become certified.
Specialty Training
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Continuing education and training in areas such as emergency, holistic, surgical or oncology nursing may advance careers without obtaining advanced certifications or degrees.
Additional Insight
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The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration projects a shortage of 213,500 registered nurses in 2010. Employers may offer financial assistance to nurses for their continuing education to help supplement their internal staffing needs.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Otis Historical Archives National Museum of Health and Medicine