Nursing is a crucial profession that plays a pivotal role in the healthcare industry. Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, providing compassionate care to patients and assisting in their recovery.
With the evolving landscape of healthcare, nursing has branched out into various specialized roles, catering to the specific needs of patients across different settings.
If you are passionate about healthcare and looking to pursue a rewarding career in nursing, this article will help you find the different types of nursing jobs in 2023, along with their respective salaries and job responsibilities.
What do nurses do?
The duties of a nurse involve providing expert care to patients across various healthcare settings. They work alongside doctors and other healthcare professionals to deliver patient care and support.
In hospitals, nurses typically work in areas such as acute care, pediatric wards, and emergency rooms. Additionally, nurses may be employed in long-term care facilities or work as home health aides.
Typically, nurses are required to have a Bachelor's degree in nursing, although they may also pursue certification in advanced practice nursing or as nurse practitioners.
Nursing license exams and national certification exams must be passed to become certified in a specialty area. Many nurses opt for certification as it enables them to offer more specialized services to their patients.
Job prospects in nursing
The field of nursing offers excellent job prospects, with a strong demand for qualified nursing professionals across the globe. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in healthcare occupations is projected to continue growing by 13% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The aging population, increased demand for healthcare services, and advancements in medical technology are some of the factors contributing to the high demand for nurses.
Top types of nursing jobs with salaries
Nursing is a diverse field with various specialties that cater to different patient populations and healthcare settings. Here are some of the most promising types of nursing jobs and salaries.
Keep in mind that nurses' salaries may vary depending on factors such as experience, location, employer, certification, etc.
1. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Nurse anesthetists have the highest paying nursing jobs. They are advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia and related care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures. CRNAs are highly skilled and well-compensated, with a median annual wage of $211,500 in 2023.
2. General Nurse Practitioner
Among the best types of nursing jobs is the nurse practitioner’s job. Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who diagnose and treat acute and chronic conditions.
With their advanced clinical training and ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions, nurse practitioners have a high level of autonomy in their practice. In 2023, the median annual wage for nurse practitioners is projected to be around $115,195, making it a well-compensated nursing career.
3. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in providing healthcare to pediatric patients.
They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and primary care practices, providing comprehensive care to children from infancy to adolescence. In 2023, pediatric nurse practitioners are expected to earn a median annual wage of $167,057.
4. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric nurse practitioners are among the other types of jobs in nursing.
They provide mental health care to patients with psychiatric disorders. They also assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, provide therapy, and prescribe medication.
With the increasing demand for mental health care, psychiatric nurse practitioners earn about $94,360 annually in 2023, making it a high-paying nursing job for those interested in mental health care.
5. Nurse Midwife
Nurse midwives are advanced practice registered nurses who provide healthcare services to women, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, gynecological care, and postpartum care.
They work in various settings, including hospitals, birthing centers, and private practices. They also assist during childbirth. They earn a median annual salary of $117,552.
6. Nurse Researcher
Nurse researchers are experts in conducting research related to nursing practice, healthcare outcomes, and patient care.
They work in academic settings, research institutions, and healthcare organizations, conducting studies to improve nursing practice and patient outcomes. In 2023, nurse researchers are reported to earn a median annual wage of $101,815.
7. Nurse Educator
Nurse educators are responsible for educating and training nursing students, as well as providing continuing education to nursing staff.
They work in academic institutions, hospitals, and healthcare organizations, using their expertise to shape the future of the nursing practice.
The average salary for a Nurse Educator in 2023 is approximately $108,060 per year.
8. Clinical Nurse Specialist
Clinical nurse specialists are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in a specific area of healthcare, such as oncology, cardiology, or pediatrics.
They provide expert advice and mentorship to other nurses. They earn a median annual salary of $106,407.
9. Labor and Delivery Nurse
Let’s see one of the other top types of nursing jobs. Labor and delivery nurses, also referred to as perinatal nurses, offer comprehensive care to patients prior to, during, and after giving birth.
Their responsibilities encompass addressing the medical and emotional requirements of patients throughout the entire birthing experience. Collaborating with a team of physicians, midwives, and other healthcare providers, labor and delivery nurses work diligently to ensure that patients undergo a safe and comfortable delivery.
The average annual salary for labor and delivery nurses is $152,570.
10. Occupational Health Nurse
Occupational health nurses promote health and safety in the workplace. They provide health screenings, offer health education, and develop policies to ensure a safe work environment. They earn a median annual salary of $70,107.
11. Public Health Nurse
Public health nursing is among nursing types of jobs. Public health nurses work to improve the health of the community.
They provide healthcare services, conduct health education programs, and participate in disease prevention initiatives. Their annual salary is about $63,420.
12. Dialysis Nurse
Here is one of the other types of nursing jobs. Dialysis nurses, also referred to as nephrology nurses, are registered nurses with specialized expertise in caring for patients with kidney-related issues.
They provide essential assistance and support to patients undergoing dialysis treatments and closely monitor their progress to ensure that treatment goals are met by the care team. On average, dialysis nurses earn an annual salary of $129,609.
13. Radiology Nurse
Radiology nurses play a crucial role in providing care to patients undergoing diagnostic imaging procedures, including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
They collaborate closely with radiologists and other medical personnel, such as technicians, to ensure that these procedures are conducted safely and effectively. On average, radiology nurses earn an annual salary of $86,040.
14. Pharmaceutical Nurse
A pharmaceutical nurse is responsible for a wide range of tasks. They conduct research, design patient education programs, and provide consultations to different facilities regarding the side effects and potential interactions of medications.
They may also engage in sales and marketing activities for newly released medications. Pharmaceutical nurses’ salary is about $88,570 yearly.
15. Oncology Nurse
Oncology nurses are responsible for providing compassionate care to patients undergoing cancer treatment. They possess specialized skills in administering chemotherapy, monitoring treatment progress, and detecting signs of relapse. Oncology nurses also create symptom management plans, administer medication, and develop comprehensive care plans to ensure patients receive optimal comfort during their treatment journey. The national average salary for oncology nurses is $91,710 per year.
16. Emergency Room Nurse
ERs are among the other types of nursing jobs. As part of their primary duties, they assess and provide critical care to patients in need.
They are responsible for stabilizing patients, evaluating symptoms, and efficiently discharging patients. Emergency room nurses also maintain high standards of emergency care, perform minor medical procedures, and treat critical injuries. The average annual salary for emergency room nurses is $147,043.
17. Cardiac Nurse
Cardiac nurses, who are specialized registered nurses, have primary duties that involve providing care for patients with cardiac and pulmonary conditions. They assist with diagnostic procedures, educate patients on preventive measures, manage their condition, and closely monitor their progress.
Additionally, cardiac nurses provide crucial emotional support and education to both patients and their families during the postoperative recovery phase. On average, the salary for cardiac nurses is $179,914 per year.
18. Operating Room Nurse
Operating room (OR) nurses play a crucial role in surgical care, as they assess patients prior to surgery, address their concerns, and answer their questions. They are responsible for stocking and preparing operating rooms, developing comprehensive care plans, and providing assistance to surgeons during surgical procedures.
Additionally, OR nurses may sterilize and maintain the cleanliness of surgery rooms to ensure a safe environment for the procedures. The national average salary for OR nurses is $160,792 per year.
19. Nurse Informaticist
Nurse informaticists are highly skilled IT specialists who oversee the seamless integration of data among various healthcare providers, aiming to enhance organizational efficiency and elevate patient care.
These professionals utilize their expertise in computer science to monitor and optimize different programs, systems, and patient care initiatives. Nurse informaticists play a vital role in leveraging technology to improve healthcare outcomes. The national average salary for nurse informaticists is $152,675 per year.
20. Telemetry Nurse
Telemetry nurses have one of the types of remote nursing jobs. They play a critical role in monitoring patients using electronic signals to closely observe and respond to any changes in cardiac rhythms.
They provide specialized care to patients with preexisting heart conditions, elderly patients, and those in the telemetry intensive care unit (ICU). The national average salary for telemetry nurses is $145,237 per year.
21. Chief Nursing Officer
As a key member of the senior management team, the chief nursing officer provides expert advice on best nursing practices. Their primary responsibilities include creating retention programs, implementing wage structures, and managing the budget for the nursing department. Chief nursing officers may also be involved in developing new patient services, representing nurses in board meetings, and conducting performance assessments of the nursing department. The average annual salary for a chief nursing officer is $129,506.
22. Pain Management Nurse
Pain management nursing is among other significant types of nursing jobs. These nurses help patients manage chronic pain resulting from illnesses or injuries.
Their primary responsibilities include assessing patients' pain levels on a daily basis, adjusting medication dosages to alleviate symptoms, and providing education on pain management techniques that patients can practice at home. Additionally, they may offer psychological support to patients undergoing treatment. On average, their annual salary is $114,450.
23. Acute Care Nurse
Acute care nurses provide specialized care to patients with severe injuries or illnesses in hospital or clinic settings. Their primary duties include administering specialized medications, collecting tissue samples, and performing diagnostic procedures.
Additionally, they may interpret results from medical equipment, such as respirators, and handle high-intensity medical events in accordance with hospital standards. Their average annual salary is $105,089.
24. Recovery Room Nurse
Recovery room nurses also play a critical role in all types of nursing jobs. Their primary responsibilities include assessing all aspects of post-operative patients, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring that their recovery progresses as expected. Recovery nurses also administer medications, clean wounds, and closely monitor patients' conditions to ensure proper healing. A recovery room nurse gains $81,108 on average per year.
25. Triage Nurse
Triage nurses, also referred to as telephone triage nurses, have essential responsibilities that involve answering phone calls from patients and providing assistance with health-related inquiries to determine if medical attention is needed.
They may also conduct reassessments of patients who are waiting in the emergency room and initiate appropriate treatment if necessary. Additionally, triage nurses may categorize patients based on their level of medical need. On average, the annual salary for a triage nurse is $74,691.
26. Nurse Recruiter
Nurse recruiters play a vital role in assisting fellow nurses in finding suitable employment opportunities, as well as helping hospitals recruit new staff members.
Their responsibilities include conducting nursing background checks, conducting interviews, and presenting hospitals with lists of potential candidates for open positions. Nurse recruiters also verify nurses' licensure and educational backgrounds to ensure compliance with requirements. The average annual salary for a nurse recruiter is $57,519.
27. Endocrinology Pediatric Nurse
The field of endocrinology delves into the intricate world of hormones, exploring their vital role in the body and developing treatments for various diseases. Within this specialized field, pediatric nurses play a crucial role in caring for children who are affected by endocrine-related conditions.
This includes providing medical attention, administering treatments, and offering valuable education on child health and development to parents. The average annual salary for an endocrinology pediatric nurse is $99,550.
28. Nurse Paramedic
Nurse paramedics are skilled healthcare professionals who specialize in providing emergency care to patients. Working in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, medical facilities, private practices, or as part of a team responding to emergencies, nurse paramedics are trained to handle critical situations with expertise. A nurse paramedic’s salary is about $44,640 per year.
29. Nurse Attorney
A nurse attorney is a legal professional who specializes in nursing law, either practicing independently or working for law firms that exclusively handle cases involving nurses. Nannies and other caregivers often encounter legal issues related to their employment, such as rights under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), minimum wage laws, and protections against discrimination.
A nurse attorney can provide valuable assistance in helping these individuals understand their rights and safeguard them from any potential abuse. The salary range for nurses who transition to careers in law can vary, but their average salary is about $115,160 per year.
30. Orthopedic Nurse
That’s one of the other great types of nursing jobs. Orthopedic nurses are healthcare professionals who provide care to patients with musculoskeletal conditions, encompassing diseases of the bones, joints, muscles, and nervous system.
Collaborating closely with orthopedic surgeons, these nurses offer comprehensive pre-operative, post-operative, and rehabilitative care to patients. With an average annual salary of $101,070, orthopedic nursing can be a rewarding and financially fulfilling career choice.
31. Perianesthesia Nurse
A perianesthesia nurse is a vital healthcare professional and has one of the other top types of nursing jobs, who plays a crucial role in providing anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery.
Collaborating closely with anesthesiologists, these specialized nurses assist in planning and administering anesthesia, ensuring the comfort and safety of patients throughout the surgical process. Their average salary is $83,154 yearly.
32. PACU Nurse
A post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurse specializes in providing care to patients who have recently undergone surgery. These skilled nurses are responsible for closely monitoring their patients' vital signs, managing pain relief, and aiding in their recovery from the effects of anesthesia.
PACU nurses typically work in both private and public hospitals, where surgeries are performed. The average annual salary for PACU nurses is $99,710.
33. Neuroscience Nurse
Neuroscience nurses are among those types of nursing jobs that play a vital role in caring for patients who are facing neurological challenges, such as dementia, traumatic brain injury, and cerebral palsy.
Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, including providing support and education to patients and families, conducting thorough neurological assessments, and administering medications as needed. Their average annual salary is approximately $109,930.
34. Respiratory Nurse
A respiratory nurse pays attention to patients grappling with respiratory difficulties. This can encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including administering oxygen therapy, monitoring vital signs, and providing patient education and emotional support to effectively manage chronic respiratory conditions. On average, respiratory nurses earn an annual salary of $107,280.
35. Rheumatology Nurse
A rheumatology nurse is a dedicated healthcare expert who specializes in providing comprehensive care to patients afflicted with rheumatic diseases. These nurses are skilled in performing procedures and administering medications to patients dealing with joint and muscle conditions.
Additionally, they play a vital role in educating and supporting patients and their families. The annual salary of a rheumatology nurse is, on average, $103,680.
36. Trauma nurse
Trauma nurses are highly skilled healthcare professionals who excel in providing specialized care to patients who have experienced trauma. They play a crucial role in stabilizing patients, offering support during their recovery process, and assessing and treating injuries sustained from accidents or violence.
Trauma nurses possess expertise in helping patients recover from serious injuries, ensuring they have a chance at a full and healthy life. They are adept at delivering care that is tailored to the unique needs of trauma patients, and they work collaboratively in teams to provide comprehensive care. The average salary of this position is $80,928 per year.
37. ICU Nurse
ICU nurses have one of the most significant nursing types of jobs. They are responsible for providing care to patients with severe injuries or illnesses in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital or medical facility. They closely monitor vital signs, track patients' conditions, administer medications, and provide direct support throughout the recovery process.
ICU nurses are skilled in providing advanced care and utilizing specialized equipment in a high-stress environment. On average, ICU nurses earn a yearly salary of $134,395.
38. NICU nurse
A NICU nurse provides care for newborn infants who require intensive medical attention in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). NICU nurses are trained to care for premature infants, newborns with birth complications, or infants with critical medical conditions that require specialized care.
NICU nurses closely monitor the vital signs and medical condition of newborns in the NICU, administer medications, provide specialized treatments, and closely collaborate with other members of the healthcare team, including neonatologists, respiratory therapists, and pharmacists, to ensure the best possible care for their tiny patients. They also provide support and education to the families of the newborns as they navigate the challenges of having a newborn in the NICU.
The average yearly salary for NICU nurses can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and geographic location, but it typically falls around $156,873.
39. CVICU Nurse
A cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU) nurse, who is a registered nurse, specializes in providing care for patients who have serious heart conditions. They closely monitor their patients and administer necessary treatments.
Given the critical condition of their patients, CVICU nurses remain vigilant for any cardiac changes that could potentially endanger their patients' lives. CVICU nurses earn an average salary of $90,980 yearly.
40. Nurse Manager
Nurse managers have the nursing types of jobs that are responsible for overseeing the nursing staff and operations of a healthcare unit or department. They ensure smooth workflow, quality patient care, and effective communication among the nursing team.
Nurse managers play a crucial role in leading and managing nursing staff, creating schedules, and overseeing budgeting and resource allocation. The average salary for a nurse manager in 2023 is approximately $92,490 per year.
41. Nurse Consultant
Nursing consultanting is among the other types of nursing jobs. Nurse consultants are professionals who provide expert advice and consultation to healthcare organizations, policymakers, or legal teams.
They may specialize in areas such as healthcare policy, quality improvement, or legal nursing practice. Nurse consultants use their extensive knowledge and experience to guide decision-making and improve patient care outcomes. The average salary for a nurse consultant varies depending on the level of expertise and experience, but its average is $95,540.
42. Nurse Administrator
Nurse administrators are professionals who hold leadership positions in healthcare organizations, such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. They are responsible for overseeing and coordinating nursing services, managing budgets, developing policies and procedures, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Nurse administrators also collaborate with other healthcare leaders to improve patient care and organizational performance. The average salary for a nurse administrator in 2023 is approximately $101,340 per year.
43. Home Health Nurse
Among all types of nursing jobs, home health nurses are those who provide healthcare services to patients in their homes. They provide services such as assessments, wound care, medication administration, and patient education. They work with patients of all ages and conditions and often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan. Home health nurses play a crucial role in helping patients recover or manage chronic conditions in the comfort of their own homes.
The average salary for a home health nurse varies depending on the location and level of experience, but they usually earn about $93,547 yearly.
44. Travel Nurse
Travel nurses are nursing professionals who work on temporary assignments in different healthcare settings and locations. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities across the country or even internationally.
Travel nurses fill temporary staffing gaps and provide specialized care in various settings, gaining valuable experience and exposure to different healthcare environments. The average salary for a travel nurse in 2023 depends on the location and duration of the assignment, but its average is $118,270 per year.
45. School Nurse
School Nurses are nursing professionals who work in educational settings, providing healthcare services to students and staff. Their job is among the types of outpatient nursing jobs.
They assess and treat minor illnesses and injuries, manage chronic health conditions, and promote health education and wellness in schools. School Nurses also collaborate with teachers, parents, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a safe and healthy school environment. The average salary for a School Nurse in 2023 is $59,618.
46. Charge Nurse
Here is one of the other different types of nursing jobs. Charge nurses are responsible for supervising and managing other healthcare professionals, such as nurses and administrative personnel.
They ensure that patients are receiving high-quality care and that the staff adheres to all medical guidelines. Charge nurses also handle daily administrative tasks, such as assigning patients to staff members and overseeing patient admissions, transfers, and discharges. Their salary is, on average, $89,583 per year.
47. Flight Nurse
Flight nurses are healthcare professionals who deliver emergency and critical care to patients during air transport, such as in airplanes or helicopters. Their main responsibilities include stabilizing patients and providing them with essential medical treatment during transit.
This may involve administering medications, performing life-saving procedures, and caring for critically injured individuals.
Flight nurses are typically employed by medical transport companies that offer air ambulance services, or they may serve as medics in the military, such as in the Air Force. They often work in outdoor environments, including remote areas where individuals may be stranded or critically injured. These nurses earn about $85,150 per year.
48. Hospice nurses
Hospice nurses, also referred to as palliative nurses, provide compassionate care to patients who are terminally ill, with the aim of facilitating a dignified and peaceful end-of-life experience.
They specialize in pain management and offer additional care to ensure that patients are comfortable. Hospice nurses also provide crucial mental health and emotional support to both patients and their families during this challenging time. The yearly salary of hospice nurses is, on average, $85,490.
49. Infection Control Nurse
The primary responsibility of an infection control nurse in a healthcare setting is to prevent and manage the spread of infections. They collaborate with patients, families, and healthcare professionals to identify and address the sources of infections.
They try to design and implement infection prevention and control initiatives. On average, their annual salary is $88,810.
50. Aesthetic Nurse
Aesthetic nurses are responsible for caring for patients who are undergoing cosmetic procedures. Their duties may include performing laser treatments, administering injectable medications such as Botox, and providing pre-operative and post-operative care, including patient education and support for those undergoing cosmetic surgeries. Aesthetic nurses averagely earn an annual salary of $89,900.
51. Health Policy Nurse
Health policy nurses are those who focus on healthcare legislation, policy, and administration. They play a critical role in planning and implementing healthcare services while ensuring that patients have access to high-quality care.
Health policy nurses also advocate for evidence-based policies that impact healthcare. They work in diverse settings such as hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, and insurance companies, and their average annual salary is $79,429.
52. Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
Another job among all different types of nursing jobs is a gerontology nurse practitioner. Nurses in this job focus on providing comprehensive care to elderly patients and are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage health conditions commonly seen in older adults.
They work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to develop and implement care plans tailored to the unique needs of elderly patients. Gerontology nurses often work in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and geriatric clinics.
The average annual salary for a gerontology nurse practitioner is $90,391.
53. Ambulatory Care Nurse
One of the other types of nursing jobs is for ambulatory care nurses, who are evolved in response to changing healthcare trends.
Ambulatory care nurses provide direct care for patients, offer case management services, and supervise other healthcare staff, such as medical assistants and patient care technicians. The average annual salary for ambulatory care nurses is $89,950.
54. Family Nurse Practitioner
Family nurse practitioners are among the other types of jobs in nursing. They provide exclusive care to patients who are family members or friends of the primary patient.
Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as registered nurses, family nurse practitioners diagnose and manage illnesses and injuries, provide supportive counseling, and strive to enhance the patient's quality of life.
This role involves working with patients of all ages and diverse medical conditions, requiring critical thinking and quick decision-making skills. On average, a family nurse practitioner earns $98,041 yearly.
55. Infusion Nurse
Here is one of the other types of nursing jobs. This type of registered nurse specializes in providing care to patients who require IV (intravenous) therapy. The primary responsibilities of an infusion nurse include safely and effectively administering IV medications and treatments, monitoring patients for any adverse reactions, and educating patients about potential risks associated with the therapy.
Infusion nurses play a crucial role in ensuring the proper administration of IV treatments and promoting patient safety. An infusion nurse earns an average hourly wage of $46.76, equivalent to an average annual salary of $97,260.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, nursing offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities with promising job prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career growth. By acquiring essential skills, staying updated with the latest practices, and pursuing advanced education and certifications, you can excel in your career and secure the best types of nursing jobs in the competitive job market. We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into the nursing profession, including the high demand for nurses, salary expectations, and essential skills for nursing careers.
FAQs
1. What are some specialized nursing jobs in 2023?
Some specialized nursing jobs in 2023 include Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, Nurse Researcher, Nurse Manager, Nurse Consultant, Nurse Administrator, Home Health Nurse, Travel Nurse, School Nurse, Occupational Health Nurse, and Informatics Nurse, among others.
2. What is the highest paid nurse?
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are the highest-paid nurses, earning an average salary of $211,500. CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who specialize in providing anesthesia care during surgery and medical procedures.
3. What are the key skills required for nursing jobs in 2023?
Some key skills required for nursing jobs in 2023 include clinical skills, critical thinking, communication, leadership, empathy, cultural competence, technological literacy, and adaptability. Nurses also need to stay updated with the latest advancements in healthcare and maintain professional development.
