By 2014—just eight years away—there will be 3.6 million new jobs in the medical profession, and most of those jobs—about 60% of them—will be open to those with some kind of nursing education. Demand for registered nurses is highest – The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that registered nurse job openings will increase 27% by 2014, but there will also be increased opportunities for certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and those in medical technical fields such as phlebotomy and pulmonology. And if you thought the only jobs available for nurses were in hospitals and healthcare facilities, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has some news for you. Less than 60% of registered nurses work in a hospital. A nursing degree opens the door to opportunities in so many fields that it is easily one of the most versatile and useful degrees you can earn. Not only that – a nursing degree appeals to a wide range of people. According to the BLS, about 20% of those entering the nursing workforce are older workers starting a second career. Many have been attracted by rising salaries due to the nursing shortage, but for many, studying nursing is a chance to do something that makes them feel good. Whether you've just started your nursing career, are returning to work after a break, or are transitioning into nursing as a second career, take a look at some of the opportunities open to you with a nursing degree. Pediatric home health care is one of the growing fields for those with a nursing degree. Every state in the Union now has some kind of early intervention program that identifies children under the age of three with special needs. Pediatric home health care gives you the opportunity to work with children and parents and make a real difference in their lives. Home health care for seniors is on the other end of the spectrum. "Aging America" means more and more people need a little help to stay in their homes. Health care assistants, registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses can provide that little extra bit that allows seniors to maintain a higher quality of life and stay at home when all they need is a few hours of medical care daily or weekly. Working at a blood donor center is an opportunity to become part of a life-saving network. Blood donation centers offer more than just starting infusions. Nurses who specialize in faresis can command high salaries, and a nurse working in blood collection can be a valuable community organizer as well as a general practitioner. A Critical Care Transport nurse requires several nursing degrees, but it can be one of the most exciting and rewarding nursing jobs available. The CCT nurse accompanies patients transferred from home or a nursing facility to another nursing facility. The nurse is responsible for maintaining the continuity of care for each patient - in the back of the ambulance. It's a challenging and fun job that requires a salary commensurate with the experience required. Point-of-care nursing is a wide-open field for healthcare professionals with a nursing degree. You can work at an amusement park or zoo, or in a medical office at a state or national park, or provide medical support for emergency responders at a beach or other recreational setting. If you choose to work on-site at a camp or other facility, your benefits may include free tuition for your own family.
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