An RN can have several different job duties and career paths. When most folks think about an RN they probably picture them working in a hospital or maybe working in their Dr.s office. This is common as that is how most people experience face to face contact with a registered nurse.

In addition to working directly with patients some RNs go into a more management role overseeing other nurses.

Working in the emergency room or in surgery is how many think of an RN career. While a significant number or RNs do work in hospitals they do not just work in the more common departments. Hospitals have many specialized departments such as maternity and pediatrics.

Retirement homes and communities also need nurses on staff. These fields as well as all nurses fields are growing as the population ages. In addition to patient care in these fields there are also opportunities in management roles.

After someone leaves the hospital from surgery they may need to have a home health nurse visit their house to assist them. These types of nurses may work independently assisting many types of patients.

Where else do nurses work? Nurses may also work for companies as industrial nurses and occupational health nurses. Or they may work for the government or a private organization for public health.

Training new nurse professionals is part of what a nurse supervisor does. They also plan and setup work schedules for their staff.

Many registered nurses wish to advance their career but not in a management role as they may enjoy working with patients more closely as opposed to managing staff. These nurses may consider becoming a nurse practitioner or becoming a specialist such as a clinical nurse specialist.