The medical industry is home to some of the most highly demanded jobs available. There is almost always a need for skilled, determined practical nurses (PNs). As a result, people who enter this profession can expect plenty of opportunities for growth, especially after preparing with Prism Career Institute’s Practical Nursing program. Here’s a closer look at career growth potential for PNs that you may experience after passing your NCLEX licensing exam.
Advancing Through a Specialty Certification
PN careers are fantastic entry-level positions. If you are looking to expand your opportunities, however, a specialty certification can qualify you for specialized positions that offer higher pay and better benefits. Here are some of the top options that can help PNs advance their careers:
- Geriatric and elder care
- Long-term care
- Advanced life support
- Case management
- IV administration
- Pharmacology
Developing Your Management Experience
A second way to advance your PN career is by working your way up to management positions. For every team of PNs, there must be somebody to lead them. While some teams are led by RNs, you may discover opportunities to earn a management position as a PN. Nurse managers are in charge of organizing care, assigning tasks, supervising shifts, and making sure their team accomplishes everything they need to within a workday. There may also be several levels of management in a larger hospital or clinic, providing even more chances for growth.
While the easiest way to earn a management position is with a bachelor’s degree, it isn’t always required. Some nurses are recognized for their hard work and talents in organization and leadership by earning a promotion. By cultivating these skills as an entry-level PN, you can be promoted to supervisor and administrative positions while developing your experience and proving your value as a manager.
Becoming a Registered Nurse
One of the best ways to advance in your nursing career is to continue your education and earn a nursing degree. In just two to three years, you can have a nursing diploma or associate’s degree in hand that qualifies you for the NCLEX-RN exam. Anyone who passes that exam can apply for and receive licensure as a registered nurse (RN). This license opens a world of new job opportunities, including duties such as:
- Administrating medications and treatments
- Planning and coordinating patient care
- Performing diagnostic tests
- Educating patients and families
If you’re looking for the very best pay and opportunities, consider earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It’s possible to enter a BSN directly after earning your PN certification. At that point, a BSN takes four additional years of training. If you’d rather advance more slowly and work while you grow, however, become a registered nurse (RN) first. Many schools provide RN-to-BSN programs as bridges between your nursing diploma and your bachelor’s degree. These programs take two years or less to complete and allow you to take courses while completing clinical requirements or working as an RN.
Beginning Your Training
If you’re excited by all this awesome growth potential for PNs, get started with Prism Career Institute today. Our Practical Nursing program is offered at all three of our campuses in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as well as in Cherry Hill and West Atlantic City, New Jersey. Contact an admissions representative now to learn more about growth potential for PNs and how to apply to our program.