Purchasing Resources for Nursing Jobs

Nursing Jobs Key Terms

Decide which job is best for you with a thorough understanding of nursing terms
By Shannon Tani The world of nursing has many different jobs and titles, which newcomers may find confusing. If you are considering a career in nursing, you should understand the different types of nursing in order to choose the best path of study. Some types of nurses, such as a nurse practitioner or a certified nurse midwife, require additional training. However, with basic training, you can become a registered nurse. Remember, too, that nurses can also specialize in different fields, such as pediatrics or geriatrics.
 

Registered nurse (RN)

Registered nurses, or RNs, are trained to help patients in their care. They can educate patients and family members about a particular disease and also provide care for the patients. They also administer medicines. RNs may provide a more supervisory role, and the job requires more education than a licensed practical nurse.
Try: Learn more about the job duties, required training and work conditions from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Licensed practical nurse (LPN)

Licensed practical nurses, also called licensed vocational nurses, often provide more direct care to patients than RNs. They have slightly less training than RNs, but can still administer medication and take care of patients' basic medical concerns.
Try: You can read more about LPNs through the Health Careers Center.

American Nurses Association (ANA)

The American Nurses Association is the professional organization that oversees nurses. The organization helps to promote nurses' rights.
Try: Visit the American Nurses Association to learn more about what they do.

Nurse practitioner (NP)

A nurse practitioner has at least a master's degree and has received additional training in dealing with disease diagnosis. Nurse practitioners may work closely with doctors in a practice and can see patients and prescribe medicine.
Try: The Women's Health Channel provides more detailed information about nurse practitioners.

Certified nurse midwife (CNM)

A certified nurse midwife has special training to take care of women's health, particularly as it relates to pregnancy and childbirth. They must study in an accredited program and receive certification from the American College of Nurse-Midwives.
Try: BabyCenter offers information about certified nurse midwives and how to choose one.

Nurse anesthetists (CRNA)

Certified registered nurse anesthetists have received special training that allows them to administer anesthesia to patients. They may work with surgeons, doctors or dentists.
Try: The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists has a thorough description of CRNAs.