A registered professional nurse, or RN, provides health care to patients with a variety of medical and mental health conditions. Examples of services:
- administer medications and treatments, as prescribed
- perform physical examinations
- monitor patients’ health status
- coordinate care and supervise healthcare staff
- counsel patients on health conditions
- consult with other healthcare providers
Salary and Projected Growth
Median salary: $104,230
Salary range: $73,799-$119,064
Projected growth: much faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Hospitals, nursing homes, and mental health facilities
Clinics and private practices
Home care and hospices
Schools and public health departments
Your Interests and Abilities
Biology, psychology, and pharmacology
Supervised clinical education
Professional Skills
Teamwork
Problem solving
Communication
Critical thinking
Concern for others
Education
An associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in nursing. RN education programs in New York State must be approved by the New York State Education Department.
Note: effective June 2019, most newly licensed RNs must earn a bachelor’s or higher degree in nursing within 10 years from their date of RN licensure. See the Office of the Professions website for guidance about this requirement and related exemptions.
Examination
NCLEX-RN examination developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a registered nurse about what they do and how they got started!
