The Salary of an Experienced Registered Nurse in Florida
Florida needs nurses. In its annual report "RN and LPN Supply and Demand Forecasts, 2010-2025," the Florida Center for Nursing states "If health care reform is implemented according to current plans, a shortage of about 5,900 RN full-time equivalents (FTEs) in 2010 will grow to more than 50,300 RN FTEs by 2025." With an increasing population of older persons, the need to fill nursing vacancies is critical to providing adequate care. Florida health care providers are offering sign-on bonuses, flexible schedules and excellent pay to hire and retain registered nurses.
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Training & Education
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Individuals who wish to pursue a career as a registered nurse must attend an approved nursing program. Many students choose to obtain a four-year bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN). Junior and community colleges provide three-year nursing programs to obtain an associate degree in nursing (ADN). A master's degree takes a minimum of an additional two-year course of study. The majority of nursing graduates work in medical and surgical hospitals to gain clinical experience before choosing to work in a specialized field. Many hospitals work closely with their registered nurses and encourage additional educational opportunities and often reimburse tuition.
Florida Nurses License
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In the United States, the District of Columbia and all U.S. territories, a national nursing license is required. To obtain a national license, candidates must pass the national licensing examination, known as NCLEX-RN, administered by the National Council of Licensure Examination. Nurses practicing in the state of Florida are also required to have a valid Florida state nursing license. Applicants should contact the Florida Board of Nursing for eligibility information, licenses and verification.
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Staff Nurses
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Staff nurses evaluate patient care plans and keep the physician appraised of changes in the patient's symptoms, test results and general health. Following doctor's orders, they implement procedures, administer medications, change surgical dressing and document nursing care. Staff nurses attend physicians during examinations and assist with treatments. Staff nurses in Florida received an average annual wage of $63,594.
Home Nurses
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RNs providing home nursing care in Miami earn an average annual of $64,794. Working in the home of the patient, home nurses care for a patient's basic medical needs, change surgical dressings, assist in rehabilitation therapies and administer medications. Home nurses evaluate the patients symptoms and notify the physician when warranted. Home nurses may work directly for the patient or be managed by a nursing service. Many home nurses receive compensated for travel time and mileage.
Hospice Nurses
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Hospice nurses care for terminally ill patients. Hospice nurses in Miami average $63,952 per year. Hospice nurses provide care in a patient's home or hospice setting. Following the orders of the physician, nurses change dressings, administer medications and consult and counsel patient's families on how to provide optimal care.
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References
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