an RN wanted to obtain employment and work successfully in a new environment *what should the registered nurse know about their new career requirement *describe what educational, certifications and license are required for this position *describe the RNs duties and responsibilities for the special position * what challenges should that RN expect in this new caree? *what salary range is expected in this position?

Introduction

When a registered nurse (RN) decides to pursue employment in a new environment, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the career requirements to ensure successful integration and performance. This paper aims to discuss the essential knowledge that an RN should have for a new career, including educational requirements, certifications and licenses, duties and responsibilities, anticipated challenges, and salary ranges associated with the chosen position.

Educational Requirements

To embark on a new RN career, it is vital for the individual to possess a minimum educational qualification of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. While an associate degree or diploma in nursing may be acceptable for certain positions, a BSN provides a broader foundation of knowledge and better equips the nurse to handle the complexities of the modern healthcare system (AACN, 2019). Graduates with a BSN also have higher employment opportunities and potential for career advancement (AACN, 2019).

Certifications and Licenses

Alongside the educational requirements, specific certifications and licenses are essential for RNs to practice in specialized positions. These additional credentials enhance the nurse’s competency and ensure adherence to professional standards. These requirements vary between different positions; hence, it is important for the RN to research and understand the specific credentials needed for their target career.

For instance, if the RN is seeking employment as a critical care nurse, obtaining the Certification for Adult Critical Care Nursing (CCRN) from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is highly recommended. This certification validates the nurse’s expertise in critical care and enhances their credibility in the field (AACN, n.d.). Similarly, for those interested in pursuing a career in nurse anesthesia, obtaining certification from the National Board of Certification & Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) is crucial (NBCRNA, n.d.).

Duties and Responsibilities

The duties and responsibilities of an RN in a specialized position may differ significantly from those in a general nursing role. Therefore, the RN should familiarize themselves with the specific duties associated with the desired career path.

For example, an RN working in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) would be responsible for providing specialized care to newborn infants requiring intensive medical attention. This includes monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and providing respiratory support to premature or critically ill infants (Jacobs & McGrath, 2017). On the other hand, an RN working in a perioperative setting would be responsible for pre-operative patient assessment, surgical assistance, and post-operative care (Maurer & Smith, 2018).

Challenges

Transitioning to a new nursing career can bring forth several challenges for an RN. Firstly, unfamiliarity with the new specialty and its unique practices may slow down the learning process and increase stress levels. Adjusting to different workplace dynamics and team structures can also pose a challenge, as the RN would need to build relationships and establish credibility within the new environment.

Moreover, a new career may require the RN to adapt to changes in their work schedule, including shift rotations or on-call duties, which can impact their work-life balance. Additionally, the complexity of specialized roles often demands continuous learning and staying abreast of advancements in the field, posing a challenge to the RN’s professional development.

Salary Range

The salary range for an RN in a specialized position varies depending on factors such as geographical location, experience, and the specific role. It is essential for the RN to research the average salary range for their chosen career path to ensure reasonable compensation.

For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for registered nurses was $75,330 in May 2020 (BLS, 2021). However, specialized nursing positions, such as nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists, often earn higher salaries due to their advanced practice and specialized knowledge (BLS, 2021).