What Is an Orthopaedic Nurse in Healthcare?

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orthopaedic nurse An orthopaedic nurse helps patients with musculoskeletal issues including broken or fractured bones, arthritis, osteoporosis, joint replacements, and other injuries and diseases. This often includes assisting in orthopaedic surgeries as well as following up during recovery to ensure that patients are properly regaining strength and range of motion. In addition, orthopaedic nurses are trained in casting, traction, and other therapeutic measures for those suffering from musculoskeletal problems, and often educate and train patients on ways to alleviate symptoms and prevent further injury.

To gain experience, nurses who have worked in critical care, emergency room, surgical or other applicable settings will be well-poised to work within the orthopaedic specialty. There are also continuing education courses related to orthopaedics that can be completed for those interested in going into the field, including specialized courses in osteoporosis care, osteoarthritis care, and bodily trauma.

What Are the Education Requirements for Orthopaedic Nurses?

Earning an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed in the state is required. Many hospitals prefer a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree but it is not a requirement for all hospitals. Those wanting to continue their orthopaedic nursing education are encouraged to complete a Master’s degree or higher.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

The Orthopaedic Nurses Certification exam (ONC) is the specific certification for the orthopaedic nurse. Eligibility requirements include working as an orthopaedic nurse for at least 1000 hours, working as a RN for at least 2 years, and having an unencumbered RN license. Contact hours are required for renewal.

Typically, orthopaedic nurses work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. However, the versatility of this nursing specialty means that there are additional settings where orthopaedic nurses are needed, including home health agencies, assisted living centers, and outpatient care facilities like rehabilitation centers. Orthopaedic nurses are also used in sports medicine and physical therapy.

What Does an Orthopaedic Nurse Do?

Orthopaedic nurses have many daily tasks, including seeing new patients and assessing symptoms, monitoring existing patients, and providing follow-up care to surgical patients. They also help with casting and wound dressing for the recently injured as well as motion therapy for those recuperating from injuries.

A large part of an orthopaedic nurse’s job involves pain management. They often help administer, monitor, and assess pain medications for patients and explain proper procedures to help minimize further injury and infection, thus minimizing future pain.

What Are the Roles and Duties of an Orthopaedic Nurse?

  • Assist doctors in providing care for musculoskeletal problems
  • Monitor patients’ vital signs
  • Help treat injuries with wound dressings or castings
  • Get a patient on a pain management schedule and assist in administering pain medications and monitoring for reactions and allergies
  • Educate patients on how to safely recuperate from surgery or injuries at home
  • Help patients improve strength and mobility following the correction of a musculoskeletal issue

What Does an Orthopaedic Nurse Practitioner Do?

Nurse practitioners are healthcare providers that help meet patient care demand. In some states, nurse practitioners function independently. While nurse practitioner schools offer specialties in more general care areas such as family medicine or acute care, nurse practitioners can even further specialize in residency programs in subspecialties such as cardiology or orthopaedics.

Orthopaedic nurse practitioners have a variety of job duties. They see patients with many different musculoskeletal disorders or injuries. They can evaluate patients in the clinic setting or in the hospital setting, and order imaging, treatments, and procedures for patients. They may assist in orthopaedic surgeries and setting broken bones, as well as perform joint injections, set casts, or place splints. They also track healing from treatment interventions and order subsequent tests, plan follow-up care, and collaborate with other members of the healthcare team (i.e. physical therapists, staff nurses, and nutritionists) to ensure patient needs are met.

Orthopaedic NPs can even earn certification in the field. The Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) offers certification for NPs. Requirements for certification include:

  • Three years of experience as an RN or APRN
  • Have a current, valid RN or APRN license
  • Hold a master’s degree or higher

Have a minimum of 2,000 hours of APRN experience within the previous three years in the orthopaedic or musculoskeletal specialty, or who are enrolled in an orthopaedic fellowship or residency program through an accredited university.

Orthopaedic Nurse Salary & Employment

The average salary of an orthopaedic nurse is $76,282. Many things can affect salary, however, including experience, location, certifications, and education. The setting an orthopaedic nurse practices in can also cause wage fluctuations, as orthopaedic nurses can work in a variety of medical settings.

Due to the aging population, the demand for orthopaedic nurses continues to rise, making the job outlook very promising. Employers in many settings are in need of skilled orthopaedic nurses, so RNs in this particular specialty tend to be attractive hires.

 

A Typical Job Posting For an Ophthalmic Nurse Position

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ophthalmic nurse An ophthalmic nurse specializes in the ophthalmology branch of medicine, which focuses on the health of the eyes. An ophthalmic nurses assists in the assessment, treatment and care for patients with a variety of eye diseases or injuries, including glaucoma, blindness, astigmatism, cataracts, macular degeneration, nearsightedness, farsightedness, scratched corneas and eye trauma. Ophthalmic nurses work directly with ophthalmologists to treat patients of all ages, although eye diseases most often affect the elderly.

Aspiring ophthalmic nurses must first complete their Associate’s Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. During the course of their nursing education, it is most helpful to take elective courses in the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the eye. Once a nurse has earned his or her RN license, they may then begin work as an ophthalmic nurse. Nurses specializing in ophthalmology may also consider earning their Certification for Registered Nurses of Ophthalmology through the National Certification Board for Ophthalmic Registered Nurses once they have worked for at least 4,000 hours or two years as a nurse in an ophthalmology setting.

A typical job posting for an ophthalmic nurse position would likely include the following qualifications, among others specific to the type of employer and location:

  • ADN or BSN-level education and active RN license
  • Prior professional nursing experience and Certification for Registered Nurses of Ophthalmology preferred
  • Experience working in an ophthalmic setting, experience conducting vision tests, assisting with eye exams and administering medications such as eye drops
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working with patients and caregivers
  • Attention to detail required for recording medical histories and exam results

What Are the Education Requirements for Ophthalmic Nurse?

A position as an ophthalmic nurse requires an ADN or BSN degree in addition to an active RN license. Coursework in the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the eye are particularly critical for nurses interested in ophthalmology. After working as a registered nurse in an ophthalmic setting for two years, a nurse can sit for the Ophthalmic Nurse Certification exam offered by the National Certification Board for Ophthalmic Registered Nurses in order to become a Certified Registered Nurse in Ophthalmology (CRNO).

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

While an RN can begin work as an ophthalmic nurse as soon as he or she completes their nursing degree and attains an RN license, the Ophthalmic Nurse Certification offered by the National Certification Board for Ophthalmic Registered Nurses is highly desired for career and salary advancement as an ophthalmic nurse. In order to sit for this exam, a nurse must complete 4,000 hours or two years of professional experience as an RN in an ophthalmic setting.

Where Do Ophthalmic Nurses Work?

Ophthalmic nurses most often work in:

  • Ophthalmologist offices
  • Hospitals
  • Eye care centers
  • Clinics

What Does an Ophthalmic Nurse Do?

Ophthalmic nurses assist in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients with various eye diseases and injuries. They often assist with eye exams, record symptoms and perform vision tests. They also record patients’ medical histories and perform physical examinations to uncover any underlying health issues causing symptoms in the eyes, such as diabetes. Ophthalmic nurses also play a critical role in patient education and treatment by administering medication such as eye drops and showing patients how to care for their eye injuries and diseases at home. The ophthalmic nurse also assists in contact lens and glasses fittings to improve a patient’s vision. In cases in which eye surgery is required, ophthalmic nurses assist with surgical procedures and care for the patient before and after surgery.

 What Are the Roles and Duties of an Ophthalmic Nurse?

  • Assist with eye exams, conduct vision tests, collect personal medical histories and record all symptoms and exam results
  • Educate patients on how to care for their eye diseases or injuries at home
  • Administer medications such as eye drops
  • Perform fittings for contact lenses and glasses
  • Assist in eye surgical procedures, prep patients for surgery and care for patients during recovery

Ophthalmic Nurse Salary & Employment

The employment outlook for ophthalmic nurses is expected to increase as the general U.S. population ages, since diseases and conditions of the eye are more prevalent among the elderly population. The salary range for ophthalmic nurses varies depending on the geographic location, type of employer and years of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses as a whole was $68,450 in May 2016.

 

Where Do Organ Procurement Coordinators Work?

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organ procurement coordinators Simply put, an organ procurement coordinator handles the entire process of organ transplants, communicating and coordinating between the donor/donor’s family, recipient, and doctors from beginning to end. The coordinator initiates the transplant process quickly and efficiently, referring the recipient to the hospital where the transplant surgery is to be performed, and evaluating and screening the intended donor. Once these tasks are completed, the coordinator provides assistance during organ recovery, transportation, and follow up post-transfer. While organ procurement coordinators tend to work in a hospital setting, a large amount of travel can be necessary as they often assist in the physical transportation of the organs.

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Organ procurement coordinators work for Organ Procurement Organizations (OPO). There are 58 in the US and each state has at least one, with larger states having more than one. While not every OPO hires only RNs for this role, those who are RNs may have an easier time getting their resumes noticed. Nurses with ICU and ED experience are often preferred due to the clinical aspects of managing the organ donor while in the ICU on mechanical ventilation.

What Are the Education Requirements for Organ Procurement Coordinators?

Many organ procurement coordinators are registered nurses with an extensive surgical background. An Associate’s Degree in Nursing is acceptable for this role but a Bachelor’s degree is usually preferred. While there’s no specific degree for this specialty, there are often applicable nursing elective courses that one can take to prepare for this career, including transplant surgery and case management. Upon completion of a nursing degree, graduates must take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to gain their RN license.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

The certification for the organ procurement coordinator is the Certified Procurement Transplant Coordinator (CPTC) certification. Only one study guide is available for the CPTC exam which explains in detail how the job works and why coordinators do what they do. The CPTC exam can be taken by those who have worked a minimum of 12 months as a transplant coordinator or preservationist.

Organ procurement coordinators are typically employed by non-profit Organ Procurement Organizations, and can often work in an office setting when completing paperwork and other tasks. A big part of the organ procurement coordinator’s job takes place in a hospital setting, however, as they coordinate between donors, recipients, and doctors. A large amount of travel can be necessary as coordinators often assist in the physical transportation of the organs, so they need to stay up-to-date on travel procedures.

What Does an Organ Procurement Coordinator Do?

The organ procurement coordinator, or organ recovery coordinator, works with patients, families, and hospitals to make organ donation happen. When a patient in the ICU or ED meets criteria set by Medicare, this nurse is notified and speaks with the bedside nurse to determine any potential for organ donation. If the patient deteriorates and meets criteria for organ donation, the organ procurement coordinator speaks to the family about permission to donate. If the family wishes to donate, the coordinator works to maximize the potential for a successful transplant by stabilizing the patient hemodynamically, and adding certain medications which are utilized by transplant surgeons to promote a successful graft for the recipient.

A special part of the coordinator’s job is to work closely with families to ease the burden of their loss by offering the gift of organ donation. Many families feel a sense of relief in the midst of their pain by being able to give life through organ donation.

What Are the Roles and Duties of an Organ Procurement Coordinator?

  • Provide support and education to families of deceased potential donors regarding the donation process
  • Complete the clinical activities that are necessary to ensure organs remain viable for donation, including tracking the deceased patient to the morgue after surgery and supervising the donor body until surgeons arrive
  • Create list of matching recipients once a donor is identified
  • Communicate and work with doctors, surgeons, nurses and others throughout the transplant process

Organ Procurement Coordinator Salary & Employment

The average salary of an organ procurement coordinator is $62,475 with a range of $46,164 – $92,954. However, most coordinators earn much more than this with the culmination of overtime pay and night differentials which are often required.

The job outlook for organ procurement coordinators remains good, as organ transplants continue to be a necessity for many medical ailments. There is also a high need to find more viable donors; something an organ procurement coordinator often has a hand in. The turnover in this job can be high due to long and irregular hours, meaning that openings are often available for those wanting to try their hand at this important career.

 

What Is The Role of An Operating Room Nurse?

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Operating Room The Perioperative or ‘OR’ Nurse is an individual who works with the patient being prepped for surgery, their family, and as a member of the interdisciplinary care team. The operating room nurse helps to evaluate the patient, then plan and implement various steps to, during, and beyond surgery. Nurses who enjoy direct patient care and a good deal of change may enjoy spending time in the OR.

Consistently looking for job postings in the perioperative role throughout local hospitals or medical networks is the most effective way for nurses to find a position that they’re interested in applying for.

Newly graduated and licensed nurses may have to complete an internship that includes both a didactic and practical component before being deemed ready to fulfill the role independently.

Experienced nurses who approach the role from a different specialty and background will have a similar lengthy orientation and learning curve to the operating room nurse role but it may be shorter, depending on their prior knowledge and experience.

What Are the Education Requirements for an Operating Room Nurse?

Perioperative nurse positions require that the applicant have an RN license in good standing. This can be achieved, at minimum, by completing a 2-year Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. A BSN is not required for all operating room nurse positions although it is preferred by employers. Some employers may require than an applicant agrees to complete his or her bachelor’s degree within a certain timeframe after hire.
Perioperative nursing positions are typically open to new graduate RNs who have successfully completed an internship program, as well as to experienced nurses with at least one year of bedside experience.

Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

The Association for Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) has a list of the various certifications available for the different roles within the OR:

  • CNORfor perioperative RNs
  • CRNFAfor First Assistants who assist the surgeon
  • CSSMfor Bachelor’s educated OR Managers
  • CNS-CPfor Master’s educated Clinical Nurse Specialists

Where Do Operating Room Nurses Work?

The perioperative nurse typically works in a hospital, outpatient surgical clinic or physician’s office.

Roles of an Operating Room or Perioperative Nurse

The terms ‘Operating Room’, ‘OR’, and ‘Perioperative’ nurse are actually umbrella terms for a few different roles in the surgical department:

  • Pre-Op RN
  • Intra-Op RN
  • Post-Op or PACU RN

Pre-Op Nursing Role

The Pre-Op nurse performs the necessary duties to prepare the patient for a surgical procedure. These may include collecting vital signs and a health history, starting intravenous catheters (IVs), performing a detailed head-to-toe assessment to ensure the patient’s condition is stable for surgery, verifying that the appropriate paperwork is complete, and providing emotional support and teaching to the patient and family.

Intra-Op Nursing Role

The Intra-Op nurse works inside the operating room and different roles are in place for this role, as well. The nurse may be assisting the surgeon working as a Circulator to ensure a sterile and controlled environment. This nurse also ensures all necessary personnel, equipment, and supplies are readily available, as well as completing necessary paperwork and being sure anyone who enters the OR is a necessary and documented addition to the environment.

Post-Op Nursing Role

The Post-Op, or PACU nurse works in the recovery room and receives the patient from the operating room immediately after the surgical procedure. The patient will be either just waking up from anesthesia or is now awake but very sleepy still. The Post-Op nurse monitors for complications during this process. Usually, a patient remains in the recovery room for 1-3 hours depending on the patient’s condition and the standards of the hospital. The PACU nurse then either discharges the patient home or transfers them back to the floor of the hospital or ICU where safe care will be continued.

What Are the Roles & Duties of an OR Nurse?

  • Coordinates use of supplies, instrumentation and equipment for operative care
  • Ensures equipment is functioning correctly
  • Maintains patient safety standards
  • Monitors, records and communicates patient’s condition and needs with the interdisciplinary team
  • Manages overall care of the patient before, during and after the surgical procedure
  • Advocates on behalf of the patient
    Documents preoperative and intraoperative care to be delivered in accordance with the surgeon, hospital, and regulatory agencies
  • Evaluates, remediates and documents the surgical environment for aseptic merit
  • Provides patient care with an understanding of age, culture-specific needs
  • Addresses the biological, emotional, developmental, psychosocial and educational status of the patient and his or her family and seeks to address concerns
  • Coordinates professional development within their practice
  • Performs core job functions with minimal supervision

Operating Room Nurse Salary & Employment

Even with the emphasis on preventative care, perioperative nursing roles are expected to increase by about 19% into the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. While job growth rates vary throughout the country, locating close to busy hospitals and teaching facilities might mean higher rates of perioperative opportunities and room for advancement as opposed to less urban regions.

The median salary for an operating room nurse is $66,713 with a range of $49,419 – $93,569. Location, experience, education, and certifications affect salary.

 

What Are the Roles & Duties of an Oncology Nurse?

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Oncology Nurse Hematology/Oncology Nurse, often abbreviated to Heme/Onc Nurses are those individuals who work with patient populations undergoing both solid and bloodborne cancer diagnoses, treatment and remission.

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Searching for open internal positions online at local hospitals is the best approach to finding a position. New graduate nurses will need to complete an internship program which involves both a didactic component as well as working alongside a nurse-preceptor as part of the interdisciplinary team to learn the role.

Experienced nurses coming from a different specialty will have similar training. Training may be tailored to meet their didactic and practical needs.

What Are the Education Requirements for an Oncology Nurse

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is considered to be competitive for applying to an Oncology Nursing position, however at this time, nurses with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing may apply as well. Specializing in oncology and cancer care requires the nurse to take on additional coursework and clinical training; there are also additional continuing education courses and contact hours that are specifically focused on various aspects of the oncology specialization.

Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

After working as a Heme/Onc nurse for some time, the nurse becomes eligible to take exams and become certified in the specialty. The Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) exam requires 1000 hours of oncology RN experience as well as 1 year as a RN and 10 contact hours in the field of oncology. The certification is valid for 4 years then requires renewal.

For nurses who administer chemotherapy, earning the ONS/ONCC Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certificate is a great way to demonstrate expertise and dedication to nursing. Eligibility includes administering chemotherapy for at least 1 year and at least once a month and this certification provides 15 contact hours. Read more for further clarify on oncology nurse certifications.

Where Do Oncology Nurses Work?

Since the advent of advanced cancer treatment, mid-sized to large hospital campuses often have an oncology team to manage patient diagnoses and treatment plans. For specific or rare kinds of cancer, patients may travel to prestigious hospitals and teaching facilities for innovative treatments; these facilities are magnets for nurses who feel called to the forefront of treatment for those with cancer.

Each facility should have a process for overseeing students and probationary employees which typically includes a checklist of skills. Once the preceptor, or person assigned to orient and train the student, has deemed the student capable of managing skills on their own, the preceptor can act as a resource to the student and no longer needs to oversee each task.

If the preceptor determines that the student is not able to manage the tasks on their own after appropriate instruction over time, the preceptor should consult with the charge nurse or manager so feedback can be provided to the school of the student’s failure to perform at the expected standard level.

Students should refer to their school’s policy or the policies of the institution for further clarification.

What Does an Oncology Nurse Do?

The hematology/oncology, or Heme/Onc nurse provides both curative and palliative treatments for all types of cancer and blood disorders. The nurse is responsible for quickly assessing and providing the appropriate interventions. The Heme/Onc nurse is able to tolerate a wide variety of emotions throughout the day and enjoys the challenge of caring for very sick as well as stable patient populations. Administering chemotherapy is common as well as assessing for complications from this therapy. Working with the interdisciplinary team to develop a plan of care is the cornerstone of the role.

  • Provide care for cancer patients that have acute or chronic illness due to cancer or exacerbating conditions.
  • Monitor patient condition, prescribe medication and manage symptoms through sharing strategies with family and patient.
  • Offer education and support to patient families
  • Offer empathy and dignity in regard to end of life care
  • Administer chemotherapy
  • Manage immediate and long-term chemotherapy side effects
  • Assess cancer patients’ ongoing physical, psychosocial and spiritual needs and status
  • Formulate and implement a care plan that is directed by concrete goals
  • Uses communication methods and skills to convey information to patient, family and staff
  • Is responsible for own professional development
  • Demonstrates expertise in legal issues and safety principles
  • Is a strong advocate of patient needs to the interdisciplinary care team and family members

Oncology Nurse Salary & Employment

Given the advancing age of our population and the argument that we live in an increasingly carcinogenic world, the field of oncology is forecast to expand faster than national averages over the next 10 years or so. There are several opportunities for nurses to pursue oncology specialist work to meet this need.

The average salary for a Heme/Onc RN is $67,197 with a national range of $45,698 – $89,644. These salary figures depend on location and skills, nursing certification and degree level.

 

What Are the Requirements for Occupational Health Nurses?

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Occupational health nurses Occupational health nursing is the specialty practice of delivering health and safety programs and services to employees, worker populations, and association groups. Sometimes occupational health nurses are referred to as occupational and environmental health nurses (OHNs). Occupational health nurses focus on the promotion and re-establishment of health, the prevention of ailment and injury, and protecting workers from occupation-related and environmental hazards. OHNs have cumulative knowledge of both health and business that they utilize to promote a safe, secure, and healthy work environment while maintaining a company’s bottom line.

A certified occupational health nurse is responsible for the health and safety of the workers in certain industries. Occupational health nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who typically have experience in community health care, ambulatory or critical care, or emergency nursing. Generally, OHNs will hold a 4-year degree in nursing and gain experience as occupational health nurses before fully entering the field.

To become an occupational nurse, you must first become a licensed registered nurse (RN). In order to become an RN, you will need to complete an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) program or Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN). Once either your BSN or ADN is completed, you are then eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, which upon passing allows you to become a registered nurse. Some occupational health nurses will be certified nurse practitioners who have obtained the equivalent of a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN). Nurse practitioner (NP) occupational health nurses can work as a corporate nurses, clinical nurses, or clinical nurse managers, as well as nurse educators and nurse consultants. Many occupational health nurses have also obtained advanced degrees in areas like public health and business. Additionally, certified occupational health nurses can receive field training from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

Certification in occupational health nursing can be achieved via The American Board for Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. To become a certified occupational health nurse, you will first need to be a fully licensed registered nurse with at least 3,000 hours of work experience in the occupational health field within the last five years, or have a graduate level degree in occupational health. The last step of this process will be sitting for and passing the certification examination.

Where Do Occupational Health Nurses Work?

Roles of Occupational health nurses (OHNs) are highly diverse. OHNs can be clinicians, educators, case managers, consultants, or corporate managers. Some occupational health nurses will choose to remain in hospital settings so as to help develop and implement safety procedures; however, most will find employment outside of typical medical facilities, designing structured security protocols and healthy living guidelines for a wide variety of organizations across the country. OHNs might work in a specific office, or they might work on a consulting basis and out of private practice.

Occupational Health Nurse FAQs

An Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner, or OHNP, specializes in health and safety in corporate, industrial, governmental, and academic settings.

Education requirements to be an Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner are as follows:

  • Master’s degree in nursing (MSN)
    • MSN in community health nursing
    • MSN in occupational health nursing, family nurse practitioner
    • Master’s of public health, occupational health nurse
    • MSN in primary health, occupational health nurse practitioner
    • MSN in environmental health, occupational health nurse

Licensure requirements are typical of any nurse practitioner:

  • Registered Nurse license
  • Advanced Practice Registered Nurse license
  • Certification is optional but valued

Upon completion of a master’s degree in nursing, graduates may sit for the national certification exam through the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN) if they want to pursue a career in the field. National certification as either a Certified Occupational Health Nurse (COHN) or a Certified Occupational Health Nurse-Specialist (COHN-S) is frequently sought as a way to advance careers and earn higher salaries as occupational nurses.

Aside from treating work-related injuries or illness and providing education to employees, OHNPs can also increase employee retention by making the work environment safe, reducing worker’s compensation claims, and helping administration abide by OSHA, FMLA, and HIPAA regulations.

What Does an Occupational Health Nurse Do?

When an employee claims that an illness or injury is work-related, an occupational health nurse (OHN) will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. They might look at an employee’s medical records to determine whether or not the injury or illness could have been caused by a hazard inherent to a particular workplace environment. These nurses can also administer drug and alcohol tests and investigate other possible causes of workplace accidents. OHNs are often required for workers’ compensation and medical insurance claims. In particular settings, occupational health nurses will screen new and prospective workers to make sure they’re able to perform the duties that a given position requires.

What Are the Roles and Duties of an Occupational Health Nurse?

The OHN’s responsibilities have expanded immensely to encompass a wide range of job duties, including (but not limited to):

  • Tending to injuries
  • Administering medication
  • Performing physical examinations
  • Performing rehabilitation therapy after certain injuries
  • Vision tests
  • Hearing tests
  • Drug or alcohol screenings
  • Counseling employees on physical and mental health issues and guiding them toward community resources and employee assistance programs
  • Coordinating and delivering services and programs
  • Counseling employees on physical and psychological health concerns and guiding them toward community resources and employee assistance programs
  • Acting as a kind of gatekeeper for various healthcare services, including rehabilitation and disability matters
  • Documenting all employee injuries and illnesses within the workplace
  • Conducting research on the effects of workplace exposures, gathering health and hazard data
  • Treating injuries and illnesses for employees, including follow-ups and referrals
  • Overseeing and implementing emergency and disaster preparedness programs and planning
  • Developing disease prevention programs, like smoking cessation, exercise, and healthy eating programs

 

Roles and Duties of OB Nurses in The US

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OB nurses An obstetrics (OB) nurse is a registered nurse who helps care for female patients during pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. Obstetricians and OB nurses play an integral and unquestionably important role during this time in a woman’s life. Some obstetrics nurses care for female patients and help them with reproductive health from puberty to menopause. OB/GYN nurse is a blanket term sometimes used to describe OB nurses.

OB nurses must be registered nurses and have some experience with obstetrics, gynecology, and/or labor. Many gain experience in the maternity ward of a hospital, or become trained as doulas to provide non-medical support to pregnant women until they have enough experience to become an OB nurse. A desire to help women and care for newborn babies is a must for the role.

What Are the Educational Requirements for OB Nurses?

The first step prospective OB nurses should take is to enroll in an accredited university or college nursing program. Most nurses will earn either an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN). Graduates with BSN degrees may find it easier to gain employment and have better career prospects, and they can also proceed to graduate school to earn advanced degrees. Upon completion of the nursing degree of their choice, future nurses must sit for an exam called the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Once they have passed this exam, they can then become licensed to practice nursing in their state. Following licensure, registered nurses (RNs) will need to gain experience as a staff nurse and acquire clinical experience via employment in a distinct area of female health before becoming a credentialed OB nurse.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

Acquiring certification in areas such as obstetrics, gynecology, perinatal, and labor & delivery nursing can certainly help drive forward your OB/GYN nursing career. It is the NCC (National Certification Corporation) which offers the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing certification for OB nurses (also referred to as RNC-OB). Prospective applicants need to have a current RN license to be viable candidates. In addition to that, RNs need to have worked in obstetrics for 24 months and have put in, at a minimum, 2,000 hours to be viable candidates for Inpatient Obstetric Nursing certification. When RNs have passed the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing certification examination, they are then able to become fully certified obstetric nurses.

Where Do OB Nurses Work?

OB nurses can be find employment in the following workplace settings:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) physician’s office
  • Hospital Maternity Ward
  • Midwife Practice
  • Family Planning Center
  • Private Birthing Centers
  • Urgent Care Clinics
  • Community Clinics
  • S. Army

Obstetric nurse practitioners usually work in both obstetrics and gynecology. Obstetrics is the care of pregnant patients and their babies, while gynecology focuses on the overall sexual and reproductive health of women.

There are several duties that obstetric nurse practitioners fulfill. For example, they can examine and monitor women throughout their pregnancy. They also assess patients’ psychosocial situations to make sure the baby is born into a healthy environment. They counsel on risk factors such as smoking, dietary restrictions, and medication use.

They also monitor the baby throughout the pregnancy. They perform transvaginal and abdominal ultrasounds to monitor fetal heart rate/tone and take measurements. They assess the level of amniotic fluid and note the fetal movements and positioning.

Obstetric nurse practitioners can also manage high-risk pregnancies. An example would be a mother with gestational diabetes. NPs can monitor the mother’s blood sugars, ensure the fetus is not growing too large, and prescribe medications to the mother (oral medications as well as insulin). NPs can also provide nutrition education for mothers with gestational diabetes.

When it comes to delivering babies, it depends on the state and organization of employment. Some states allow NPs to deliver, for example, if they work in the emergency room. Some require certification as a nurse midwife. Prospective NPs should research their state and organization’s requirements/regulations.

Obstetrics nurses support and assist female patients during all stages of their pregnancies and beyond. Duties and responsibilities for OB nurses will vary greatly depending on the setting they’re working in. Obstetrics nurses educate their female patients on physical and sexual health. Additionally, they will discuss patients’ choices for birth control and other preventative measures like mammograms for the early diagnosis of breast cancer, and HPV vaccinations to help prevent cervical cancer. OB physicians and nurses will often work alongside one another to ensure that their female patients are as healthy as possible. Together they give women guidance on how exactly to prepare both their minds and bodies for pregnancy and provide education on various fertility treatments available. Regular check-ups with OB professionals are a must to ensure the healthiest pregnancy and delivery possible. An OB nurse is a significant presence during these check-ups. Obstetrics nurses will typically be close at hand in the delivery room. They play two primary roles: acting as an assistant for doctors, and as coaches for mothers. OB nurses must also be well prepared for medical emergencies during deliveries.

What Are the Roles and Duties of OB Nurses?

Roles and obligations of OB nurses include the following:

  • Assist the obstetrician with prenatal exams and procedures including:

o Pelvic exams

o Prenatal screenings

o Urine and blood sample collection

o Weight monitoring

o Ultrasounds

  • Assist with pregnancy management
  • Find ways to manage an expectant mother’s pain
  • Teach patients about birth control options
  • Conduct mammograms and other screenings
  • Clean, weigh, measure, vaccinate, and monitor the infants and assist the new mother while she recovers from the strain of labor
  • When an abnormal pregnancy occurs, OB nurses will help expectant mothers to make difficult decisions that will directly impact their health as well as the health of their children.

OB Nurse Salary & Employment

Employment as an OB nurse provides many opportunities for career and personal growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nursing field is one of the fastest growing occupations, with a growth rate projected at 16% in the coming years. OB nurses can expect to make between $62,327 and $77,548 annually, with a national average salary of approximately $68,485. However, there are a wide variety of factors that can affect the salary of an OB nurse such as the region of the country you work in and how many years of experience you have. A nurse’s level of education will also make a difference. Advanced practice nurses, especially nurse practitioners in the obstetrics field can make up to $84,000 annually. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that nurse practitioners and other advanced practice nurses will be the most in-demand out of all the nursing professions in the coming decade.

 

List of Education Requirements for Nurse Writers?

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Nurse Writers Nurse writers are nursing professionals who are passionate about educating readers on healthcare topics through their personal knowledge and experience.

Different fields of nursing can provide writers with specialized training and skills that can translate into conveying information, gathering research, and advocating for patients in need. Psychiatric nurses, for example, may use the skills and understanding of mental health to ensure that written material is informational, meaningful, and helpful.

Writing is a useful talent that can help readers find the clinical knowledge they need through a professional they can trust.

Becoming a Nurse Writer

Nurse writers must have several years of experience as a registered nurse before they can provide guidance or personal knowledge in medical writing.

Becoming a nurse writer does not require specialized advanced courses or education beyond the degrees needed to become an RN. However, nurse writers should have exceptional grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Some knowledge of writing styles, such as AP Style, may be required depending on the type of employer or client. Nurse writers must also have a strong sense of who their audience is; for example, a nurse writer may use more technical terminology if the intended audience is fellow nurses, or explain things in layman’s terms if the piece is for a more general readership.

What Are the Education Requirements for Nurse Writers?

Generally, nurse writers must at least earn their Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN to become registered nurses. However, depending on the employer/client and the focus of the writing topics, nurses at any level (including licensed practical/vocational nurses and others) may be eligible to write. Most employers are looking for writers who have a healthcare/nursing background and excellent writing skills, so specific educational requirements will be at their discretion. Writing subjects can be varied, and may focus on specialty areas including pediatrics, psychiatric health, and more. Writers with advanced degrees and levels of knowledge are always welcome and are usually asked to tackle challenging projects.

Most nurse writer requirements also include some level of hands-on clinical experience as a nurse, notably in emergency or mental health fields (though nurses with experience in any field can become writers). This experience will help nurse writers inform their writing.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

Writing professionally does not require special certifications or credentials beyond the basic requirements of becoming a professional nurse. Most nurse writers are RNs who hold Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degrees and valid RN licenses, which can be achieved through passing the NCLEX-RN.

Though it’s not required, some nurse writers may be interested in earning a Medical Writer Certified (MWC®) credential from the Medical Writing Certification Commission in collaboration with the American Medical Writers Association. This credential is awarded upon passing a 125-question, multiple-choice examination. Eligibility requirements for this credential include holding a bachelor’s or advanced degree in any field and having at least 2 years of paid work experience in the medical communication field.

It is recommended that writers do not accept writing assignments that cover topics outside of their skillset unless they consult with experts.

Where Do Nurse Writers Work?

Nurse writers can freelance for medical journals, guides, and other health-related publications (newspapers, magazines, websites, etc.) that require accumulated knowledge, education, experience, and objectivity. Nurses can also write for academic papers, write grants for hospitals or programs, coordinate programs, or assist the Communications Department in hospitals or other organizations.

Nurse writers are often independent and consult for clients. They can offer detailed guidance on how to portray nurses in books or TV shows. Nurse writers may also choose to keep a personal website or blog to discuss topics relevant to nursing and healthcare.

The appeal for many nurse writers, particularly those who freelance or set up their own writing business, is that they can utilize their nursing knowledge and expertise while working from home and/or setting their own hours; in fact, some nurse writers even continue to work in patient care and take writing jobs on the side.

What Does a Nurse Writer Do?

Nurse writers are naturally skilled communicators who advocate for their patients and can engage in long-term dialogue within the medical health field.

To advance as a nurse writer, communication skills must be coupled with years of experience, along with a degree of empathy and compassion.

What Are the Roles and Duties of a Nurse Writer?

Clear and concise writing is an asset in any field, but nursing, in particular, relies on clear and specific language to allow for continuous patient care and safety. Nurses, throughout their careers, need to be detailed, specific, and accurate when communicating and conveying information. There is little room for appealing to emotions or establishing connections in this type of writing.

When writing for a variety of audiences, nurses have more freedom to communicate on a fundamental level. Nurse writers often rely on their own experiences or those of their colleagues to create informational and engaging content.

Nurse writers must be willing and able to follow instructions from their clients and employers regarding the tone, subject matter, and content of their written pieces. This may involve edits and revisions, interviewing subjects, and providing detailed sources for their work. Writing often involves tight deadlines and quick turnarounds, so nurse writers must be able to meet these demands.

Nurse Writer Salary & Employment

Nurse writers can expect to earn between $18,500 and $128,500 annually. The median annual salary for this type of nurse is $68,481. Exact salary amounts depend on location, skillset, and type of employer. Keep in mind that some nurse writing jobs maybe freelance, meaning that RNs won’t have access to benefits such as a 401K or health insurance through an employer.

As nursing and healthcare continue to grow, nurse writing is a promising field. Nurses who have enjoyed a long career or who may be interested in communication and education might be a perfect fit for nurse writing, and it is an increasingly popular “side hustle” for working RNs looking to make some extra income in their downtime.

 

What Is a Pain Management Nurse?

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Pain Management Nurse Pain management nurses are registered nurses who specialize in the care of patients with chronic, sometimes debilitating pain. They are experts on pain management interventions and techniques.

In 2001, the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) introduced standards for healthcare providers to address pain assessment and management, to include more aggressive pain management such as opioid administration.

After about 10 years, the number of patients who developed opioid addictions/dependence skyrocketed. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, of the 20.5 million people with substance use disorder, 2 million had substance use disorder involving prescription pain medications. This epidemic led to healthcare providers finding alternative and safer pain management techniques, such as:

  • Acupuncture
  • Chiropractic medicine
  • Vitamin therapy
  • Stress/Relaxation techniques:
    • Yoga
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Guided imagery
    • Massage
  • Spinal blocks
  • Botox injections
  • Exercise/diet changes
  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Simulator (TENS) units

In 2005, the American Nurses Association recognized pain management as a nursing specialty. Nurses working in pain management assist with patients who may suffer from the following:

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Diabetic nerve pain
  • Nerve/spinal injuries
  • Status post motor vehicle accidents
  • Chronic Headaches
  • Stroke pain
  • Radiculopathy
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Cancer pain

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Nurses learn the basics of pain management in their accredited nursing programs. They are taught to assess pain, intervene per physician’s orders, and evaluate the patient’s response to pain. Pain management nurses are more specialized in that the patient population they serve are typically people suffering from chronic pain due to illness/disease. Pain management nurses should have top-notch assessment skills (to include non-verbal cues), enjoy teaching, and have lots of patience, as one pain management technique is not effective for every patient. Continuous assessment and reassessment may be needed.

What Are the Education Requirements for a Pain Management Nurse?

Those interested in the specialty of pain management should first pursue a nursing degree through a two or four-year university. Obtaining an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is required. After completion of an accredited nursing program, an aspiring nurse must pass the NCLEX-RN examination, which is required for licensure.

In some healthcare organizations, a BSN degree is preferred. Nursing program graduates are encouraged to check each employment opportunity for minimum requirements.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers a Registered Nurse-Board Certified (RN-BC) credential in the specialty of Pain Management. Eligibility for credentialing includes:

  • Hold a current, active RN license
  • Have practiced the equivalent of two years full-time as a registered nurse
  • Have practiced in a nursing role that incorporates pain management (assessment, education, or research) for at least 2,000 hours in the prior three years
  • Have completed 30 hours of continuing education in the prior three years, with 15 hours related to pain management

The exam is computer-based, and is 175 questions. Certification is valid for five years.

Additionally, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and sedation certification may be required if invasive pain management procedures are performed.

Where Do Pain Management Nurses Work?

Pain management nurses can work in a variety of medical settings. As healthcare providers battle the opioid epidemic, more alternative pain management techniques are being employed in:

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient clinics
  • Private medical offices
  • Rehabilitation facilities
  • Sports medicine
  • Oncology

What Does a Pain Management Nurse Do?

Pain management nurses are responsible for assessing patient care needs, implementing a treatment plan, and evaluating the response. Specifically, pain management nurses may:

  • Administer pain medications via various routes, i.e. intravenous, intramuscular, or intrathecal
  • Monitor patient receiving conscious sedation
  • Recover patients after receiving sedation
  • Review medical records
  • Assist physicians with invasive pain management techniques

What Are the Roles & Duties of a Pain Management Nurse?

Nurses specializing in pain management play an integral role in patients’ recovery from injury, management of chronic illness, and overall well-being and quality of life. Roles and duties include:

  • Assessing individual medical and psychosocial patient care needs
  • Collaborating with physician to develop a plan of care
  • Assisting in implementation of treatment
  • Evaluating and documenting patient response to interventions
  • Educating patients and families on available treatments for them to make an informed decision
  • Demonstrating patience and empathy to patients who are suffering from pain

Pain Management Nurse Salary & Employment

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not have data specifically on pain management nurses, it does outline the job outlook for rehabilitation counselors, a field which is expected to grow 9% by 2024. This, along with the projected 16% growth by 2024 for registered nurses, indicates a promising career opportunity for pain management nurses.

According to indeed.com, pain management nurses earn an average salary of $101,295 annually. This figure may vary depending on city and state of employment, degrees or certification held, and the organization of employment.

 

What Is a Nurse Manager in a Healthcare Setting

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Nurse Manager A nurse manager directs, supervises, and leads the nursing staff of a hospital or medical facility. The nurse manager’s role is fast-paced, multi-dimensional requires organization and critical thinking, and is vital to patient care as they oversee the nurses that provide direct care. They must have excellent skills in both nursing and business-related tasks, including coordinating schedules, managing budgets, and handling personnel matters.

Becoming a Nurse Manager

Since nurse managers must supervise other nurses, natural leaders and those who enjoy helping others succeed are well-suited for the role. Having experience in a wide variety of nursing styles is also a good trait to have, as nurse management positions may open up in any number of nursing units. Strong leadership skills, excellent communication, and an interest in the business side of nursing are must-haves for this career path.

What Are the Education Requirements for a Nurse Manager?

In order to become a nurse manager, an individual must first attend an accredited university or college and graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN). The nurse must pass a board exam called the NCLEX-RN to receive a nursing license.

After this has been completed, the nurse must obtain experience in the form of direct patient care, ideally in an acute care setting such as a hospital. Length of experience is variable, though many employers will require at least 5 years of experience for this type of role. Many nurse manager positions promote and hire from within the staff nurses if there is interest.

The next step in this process is to obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Masters in Healthcare or Business Administration (MHA/MBA). For some nurse manager positions, this step is optional, though highly desired.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

There are two paths designated by the American Organization of Nurse Executives for certification:

  • Certified in Executive Nursing Practice (CENP): This certification is geared toward nurse leaders working in nurse executive positions. The requirements to obtain this certification include an active unrestricted RN license, a master’s degree with two or more years experience in an executive nursing role or a baccalaureate in nursing and four years of experience in an executive nursing role. There is a fee and nurses must pass an exam to obtain certification.
  • Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML): This certification is geared toward nurse leaders in a nurse manager role and is offered in collaboration with the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). The requirements to obtain this certification include active unrestricted RN license, BSN degree or higher with two or more years experience in a nurse manager role, or a non-nursing bachelors with three years of experience in a nurse manager role, or an associate’s degree with five years of experience in a nurse manager role. There is a fee and the nurse must pass an exam to obtain certification.

Where Does a Nurse Manager Work?

Nurse managers are typically found in hospitals where they oversee and manage nursing staff on a specific unit or specialized floor. They may also be found in ambulatory care centers as well as long-term care centers where they may manage nursing staff working in different areas of the facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living center.

What Does a Nurse Manager Do?

Nurse managers are a vital component of any healthcare setting. They are responsible for supervising a nursing unit in a hospital or clinic. That includes direction of nursing staff, oversight of patient care and some management or budget decisions. In other words, instead of spending their day screening patients and checking vitals, they are establishing work schedules, coordinating meetings and making personnel decisions.

What Are the Roles and Duties of Nurse Managers?

A nurse manager wears many hats and has many responsibilities, some of which may include:

  • Recruit, retain and evaluate nursing staff
  • Provide training for nursing staff if role is not designated to another staff personnel
  • Act as liaison between interdisciplinary teams and nursing staff
  • Assist patient and families including handling escalated situations
  • Managerial paperwork such as medical health records
  • Oversee day to day operations on unit
  • Manage/report finances and budgeting

A nurse manager’s salary will vary depending on setting, experience, and other factors. The national average salary is $79,725 per year, though the range is from $59,212 to $108,478. Typically, a higher salary for nurse managers can be found in hospital settings, particularly in fast-paced Intensive Care Units.

Due to the extensive experience requirements to become a nurse manager, many enter nursing management and tend to stay. There are further opportunities for nurse managers within leadership, including: nurse educator, director of nursing, clinical nurse specialist, patient care coordinator, and nurse case manager.