Beginner Nurse: Jobs You Could Do After You Earn Your ADN!

Nursing is a unique role that can be equated to very few others. Apart from the academic qualifications, you have to go the extra mile because the job requires commitment, compassion, kindness and selflessness. It is no wonder nursing is regarded as a calling.

If you want to become a nurse, there are many avenues to pursue. One of the easiest and quickest ways to become an RN is by earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). This credential is a starting point in the nursing field, and still gives you room to grow as you gain experience and become ready for more responsibility.

How can I earn an ADN?

Just as the name suggests, an Associate Degree in Nursing, commonly referred to as an ADN, is a program that to allows you to kick-start your life as a nurse. The program traditionally takes 2 years, or possibly less time if you choose an accelerated program for your education.

During the training, you can expect to go through several courses that will enable you to develop skills such as clinical decision making, patient care and health care among others. Additionally, you will develop confidence and gain fresh perspective on crucial nursing skills.

After the training it is a requirement to take the NCLEX-RN exam, without which, you will not be eligible for hire as a nurse.

Where can I work with my ADN?

Nurses provide the basic core care that is needed for the healthcare system to keep running. As a registered nurse, you will perform valuable and meaningful work which makes a huge difference in the lives of your patients.

Here are some of the places that you could be employed once you complete your ADN:

Hospitals

Nurses with associate degrees are hired in hospitals to perform simpler tasks than nurses who have completed a bachelor's degree in nursing. Depending on the needs of the hospital, you may be hired in the ER, neonatal wards, Intensive Care Units, and specialty areas among others.

Home Health Nurses

Also referred to as personal care nurses, home health nurses take care of patients in the comfort of the patient's home. With the increase in terminal diseases and chronic conditions, most patients are making the choice to be taken care of at home as opposed to hospitals. Depending on the condition of the patient, the nurse may get a full time job where they work for an 8 to 10 hour shift or just some few hours.

The duties of the nurse are dependent on the condition of the patient. While some may only need assistance with physical therapy, some may need help with their everyday activities.

Outpatient Facilities

In these facilities, you will be required to apply your clinical decision making skills as you work closely with the doctors physicians to attend to patients. You should expect to provide routine care after procedures, treatment, medical procedures as prescribed by the doctors, and other specialized care and treatment services. 

Nursing Homes

These are also potential employers for people with ADN. In this case you could provide care for the patients and help their loved ones understand their condition. The nursing homes vary in the type and level of care. While some are specially setup for the elderly, other nursing homes are setup for special needs patients with a wide age range.

Some of the regular tasks involve administering drugs, checking on their general health and assisting the doctors as they carry on their regular duties.

Unlike any other setup, a nursing home may require you to offer more psychological and physical assistance. You may find yourself creating bonds with patients as you spend time with them while offering your services.

Doctor and Physician Offices

Working here involves providing routine nursing care to patients before and after consulting with the doctors. Some of the duties include taking histories, initial exams, consulting, administering drugs and vaccinations among others. 

Where Else Could I Work?

Other places that you will find employment include schools, rehabilitation centers, schools, colleges, universities and specialty hospitals among others.

It is no doubt that ADN offers a wonderful way to start your life as a nurse. It is also a common path to advance up to a BSN without relinquishing your employment status once you start practicing. 

Are You Ready to Learn More About Nursing?

Would you like to learn more about nursing? If you want to earn your Associate Degree in Nursing, ECPI University offers this program at an accelerated rate. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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