Different Types of Nurses and Which Nurses are Paid the Most?
What are the different types of nurses and which nurses are paid the most? When it comes to choosing a nursing school, it’s essential to know the different levels of education they offer. There are different nursing degrees that all vary in the level of education. You may also want to choose a program based on how much the nurses make. Understanding the degree levels can help you make an informed decision about which program is right for you!
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What is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) are of the types of nurses who have completed a certificate or diploma program that typically takes about a year.
Upon completion of the program, LPN’s can take the NCLEX-PN exam and work as licensed practical nurses in a variety of settings. LPN’s work under the supervision of an RN and the scope of practice for LPN’s varies by state. In the United States the mean hourly wage for LPNs is $29.23.
What is a Diploma Nurse?
This is another type of nurse, diploma programs typically take 2-3 years to complete.
Diploma nursing programs are a unique and valuable option for those looking to become registered nurses. Alternatively, Diploma programs are obtained by hospitals instead of colleges. These programs provide students with the necessary education and training to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Upon passing the NCLEX-RN, graduates are eligible to become registered nurses. The mean hourly wage for Registered Nurses in the United States is $41.38.
What is an Associate Degree Nurse (ADN)?
An associate degree in nursing typically takes around 4 years to complete.
Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses upon graduation just like graduates of diploma programs. Associate degree programs are usually at community colleges. This path provides both a nursing license and an associate degree upon completion. The mean hourly wage for Registered Nurses in the United States is $41.38
What is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)?
Opting for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a pathway to becoming a registered nurse that also takes 4 years to complete.
With a BSN program, you become a nurse just like diploma and associate degree nurses. Comparatively, this option is increasingly popular among aspiring nurses as many hospitals prefer hiring BSN-prepared nurses. Upon completion of the four-year program, graduates receive a BSN degree and are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. The program offers a comprehensive education in nursing theory and practice. The mean hourly wage for Registered Nurses in the United States is $41.38
What is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)?
Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) are nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives. APRNs highly trained professionals who have a Masters degree in nursing. Often, APRNs make the most money.
You earn these degrees through a Masters or Doctorate program. Nurses must have a bachelor of science in nursing to apply for these programs. Although, some programs offer bridge options for diploma and associate degree nurses. In addition to holding an RN license, advanced practice nurses must also pass the licensing exam for their specific advanced practice license. The mean hourly wage for a Nurse Midwife in the United States is $63.26. Similarly, the mean hourly wage for Nurse Practitioners in the United States is $61.78. Lastly, The mean hourly wage for nurse anesthetists (CRNA) is $102.98.
To sum up, you now know the different types of nurses. You also know which nurses are paid the most! You should know, there is more to it than knowing the different types of nurses and which nurses are paid the most. Additionally, If you’re pursuing a career in nursing, it’s important know that in addition to a nursing license, most nursing jobs require additional certifications. For example, These certifications may include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), basic life support (BLS), advanced cardiac support (ACLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS). Look up the requirements for the nursing job to find the necessary certifications. You can get these certifications during your nursing program or after you graduate and begin working as a nurse.
Sources:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm