Degrees to Succeed: Registered Nurse or Road Warrior?
By AJ Fanter
Registered nurses don't just work in doctor's offices, hospitals, medical sales or nursing homes. One of the more unique jobs a registered nurse can hold these days is that of a visiting or home health care nurse, traveling to patients providing one-on-one care.
10 Million and Growing...
According to the Visiting Nurse Association of America, visiting nurse associations presently provide in-home care for nearly 10 million people annually. However, as hospital stays continue to get shorter and the majority of our population begins to reach their senior years, the need for all registered nurses, especially those who are willing to work in the home health care field is growing exponentially.
What Do Home Health Care and Visiting Nurses Do?
Just as the name implies, registered nurses who become home health care nurses provide nursing services for patients in their own homes. In addition to being a link between the patient and their doctor, home health care and visiting nurses play an important role in educating patients to take better care of themselves. This personal care helps patients to gain greater control over their own lives while allowing them to recover in their own home.
Becoming a Registered Nurse...
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses are in demand. In fact the agency reports that the growth rate of jobs available for registered nurses will surpass any other occupation through 2012. If you are looking for a career that gives you the opportunity to have a positive and dramatic impact on the lives of others in need, then perhaps it's time to consider getting a degree in nursing.
Sources:
Visiting Nurse Associations of America
Bureau of Labor Statistics
About the Author
Amy Fanter is a freelance writer. She holds a B.A. in English from Colby College.
