Advanced Practice Nursing: How do I Move Ahead in my Career?

Advanced practice nurses are an essential part of skilled medical teams. They facilitate healthcare through education, training other nursing staff, and creating and running programs that encourage healthy habits.

What are some of the job roles advanced practice nurses hold? What are the benefits of earning an MSN before pursuing advanced practice nursing positions? How can those already working in the nursing field achieve their career goals through higher education?

Advanced Practice Nurses in Action

Advanced practice nurses use their administrative skills to help doctors and medical institutions incorporate health programs that benefit their target population. Some of the administrative roles these professionals are responsible for include:

• Medical and Health Service Managers like Nurse Managers and Program Managers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating services. These nurses often work with community groups or municipalities to fight chronic diseases and other public health issues. They can also be found in doctors’ offices, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Nurse and Program Managers help medical facilities conform to all applicable legal regulations and requirements.
• Quality Improvement Directors spend their days finding ways to improve their patients’ experience. This can involve creating and reviewing surveys, observing medical staff on-the-job, and working with a management team to institute changes gear towards improving patient outcomes.
• Clinical Nurse Educators train new nurses. Their experience and knowledge qualify them to teach in nursing schools, colleges, and hospital on-the-job training programs. Those with specialized credentials, like prenatal medicine or cardiology, are especially sought after.
• Advanced practice nurses are also needed in active care roles. Nurse practitioners help doctors provide care in busy offices by meeting with patients, diagnosing and treating conditions, prescribing medications, and conducting clinical tests. These professionals are often found in urgent cares, emergency rooms, and clinics where MDs are in short supply.

Advanced practice nursing is a wide-ranging field with multiple opportunities for those who are interested and motivated.

The Benefits of Earning an MSN

Getting an MSN before you start your job search holds many benefits for job seekers.

• The nursing field is highly competitive. Those with certified credentials are more likely to find the type of employment they really want.
• With your MSN, you’ll be able to specialize in the field of your choice. This makes you a more attractive option for hiring managers.
• During your studies, you’ll be exposed to a variety of fields of medical knowledge. Your MSN study course gives you a chance to decide what direction you want to take on your career path.
• Many hospitals and medical facilities look to nursing schools and colleges for fresh applicants. If you get good grades and participate this could help you secure a position, possibly even before you graduate!

If you’ve already started on your career path, an MSN could help you get closer to your ultimate goals.

• Looking for a promotion? An MSN is a great way to show your present employer that you are dedicated to growth and high achievement.
• Do you have your heart set on working in geriatrics, pediatrics, or another specialty? Your MSN program is the best way to gain the credentials needed to pursue special certifications.
• Employers are usually willing to pay those with higher credentials better wages. You could also be rewarded with more responsibilities and on-the-job opportunities for advancement.
• Use your MSN as a pathway towards your Ph.D. The lessons you learn in your master’s program will be instrumental in preparing you for Ph.D. courses.
• Many nurses regret that there isn’t more they can do for their patients. With your MSN, you could be eligible for administrative roles and have a more direct hand in creating and influencing policies that benefit all patients.

Are you a BSN interested in moving your career forward? If you want to earn an Master of Science in Nursing Degree, ECPI University offers this program at an accelerated pace. For more information about this exciting degree, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Master of Science in Nursing

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