Exploring Different Types of Nurses

What are the different types of nurses? 

Whether you have an affinity for pediatrics or a passion for emergency care, there’s a nursing specialty for you. Here, we’ll explore some of the most popular nursing specialties to help you make informed decisions as you plan your nursing journey.  

Registered nurse (RN)  

Registered nurses are the backbone of healthcare.  

They have many responsibilities that include coordinating and providing patient care, educating the public, and providing direct care to patients and their family members.  

RNs can work in physicians' offices, hospitals, home healthcare services, nursing care facilities and other environments. They’re often the first point of contact for patients and play a pivotal role in their overall treatment. These are just a few of the different types of nursing specialties. 

All specialties listed below require an RN license.  

Pediatric nurse  

Pediatric nurses specialize in healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. They work in various settings, including hospitals, pediatric clinics, and schools. 

These nurses need to have excellent communication skills as they often have to explain complex medical conditions and treatments to young patients and their parents.  

Oncology nurse  

Oncology nurses care for patients diagnosed with cancer. They administer chemotherapy, offer emotional support, and educate patients and their families about the disease and its treatment. 

Oncology nursing can be challenging due to the intense emotional situations that often arise in cancer care, but it can also be exceptionally rewarding. 

Neonatal nurse  

Neonatal nurses care for newborn babies who are born prematurely or who have serious illnesses or birth defects. They work in hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) and ensure these fragile patients receive the best possible care during their first few weeks and months of life. They also support and educate parents during this critical period of time. 

Geriatric nurse  

Geriatric nurses specialize in caring for elderly patients. They often work in nursing homes, hospitals, and home healthcare. 

As the population ages, the demand for geriatric nurses is increasing. This role requires patience and a deep understanding of the unique health issues that come with aging. 

Psychiatric nurse  

Psychiatric nurses, also known as mental health nurses, work with patients affected by mental illness or distress. They can work in psychiatric treatment centers, mental health clinics, hospitals, or patients' homes. 

These nurses are skilled in psychological therapies, building therapeutic relationships, dealing with challenging behavior, and the administration of psychiatric medication. 

Critical care nurse  

Critical care nurses work in hospital intensive care units providing care for patients with severe and life-threatening illnesses or injuries. They are skilled in advanced life support and often work in high-pressure environments. 

Advanced Practice Degrees 

There are several options of advanced training and certifications for nurses looking to go back to school for a master’s or doctorate degree. Advanced practice degrees can offer career advancement opportunities. 

Nurse practitioner 

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) provide primary and specialty care to patients. They are able to order diagnostic testing, diagnose illnesses and prescribe medications. NPs may practice in various settings including clinics, hospitals, or in-homes. There are multiple NP program options including family nurse practitioner (caring for patients of all ages from birth to death), Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (caring for patients in ICU hospital settings) or Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (caring for adult patients in primary care or specialized settings). 

Nurse anesthetist  

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) are advanced practice nurses who administer anesthesia during surgeries, childbirth, and other medical procedures. 

They are among the highest-paid professionals in the nursing field, but the role requires extensive education and training. 

Nurse midwife  

Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM) care for women by conducting gynecological exams, offering family planning services, prenatal care, labor and delivery support, and neonatal care. They play a crucial role in promoting women's health and wellness.  

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) 

CNSs specialize in a specific area (e.g., oncology, pediatrics) and provide advanced clinical care and expertise. They can offer direct patient care as well as serve as a clinical resource for other staff nurses. 

Each of these nursing specialties offers unique challenges and rewards. As a new nurse, it's vital to consider your interests, career goals, and the type of environment in which you wish to work. 

Remember, the best nursing specialty is the one that brings you satisfaction and aligns with your passion for helping others. The world of nursing is wide open, and the choice is yours to make.