Which Types of Nurses Are Most in Demand in 2016

There are a wide variety of options when it comes to what area of their field nurses can choose to work in: labor and delivery to traveling home health care and everything in between. As medical technology and healthcare advances and training become more and more specialized there are some areas that have a higher demand for nurses than others. Regardless it’s always a good idea to put your focus where your interest truly lies. Below is a list of the most common specializations for nurses.  

Neonatal Nurses

This sub-specialty area of nursing handles infants born with a variety of medical problems. By definition, the first month of a newborn's life is considered the neonatal period. However, it is not uncommon for these infants to be sick for months.  These issues can include:

• Premature birth
• Infections
• Surgical problems
• Birth defects
• Cardiac problems

Neonatal nurses generally provide care for infants with medical issues shortly after birth, but in some situations, care for infants up to 2 years old. On average, neonatal nurses care for newborns from the time they are born up until they are discharged from the hospital. 

Clinical Nurse Specialist

A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) provides direct patient care and serves as an expert consultant for full nursing staffs while remaining active in helping to improve the health care delivery system. A CNS is an Advanced Practice nurse who has earned a masters or doctoral degree in their specialized area of practice. These specialized areas can include:

• Pediatrics
• Geriatrics
• Women's health
• Critical Care
• Oncology
• Psychiatric
• Pain and wound management

In addition, a Clinical Nurse Specialists' responsibilities also include the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries, as well as disabilities within their field of expertise.

Certified Nurse Midwife

Midwives serve as the primary care provider for pregnant women who are not at risk for complications during pregnancy. As an expectant mother, your certified nurse midwife will provide both physical and emotional support before, during, and after delivery as well as:

• Genealogical exams
• Prenatal care
• Labor and delivery assistance
• Neonatal Care

According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives, due to the increasing demand for certified nurse-midwives, at least one in ten infants born will be delivered by a certified midwife in the near future.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

CRNA's are advanced practice nurses who administer anesthetics for every type of operation and procedure. These procedures can include:

• Surgical
• Obstetrical
• Trauma care

These specialized training nurses work together with qualified healthcare professionals, which can include: surgeons, anesthesiologists, and dentists, just to name a few. Benefits of a CRNA can include an elevated level of professional respect as well as a high degree of autonomy.

Where can I get started in my new career?

No matter what specialized area you choose during your nursing career, the first step is to find a high quality, accredited program to put you on the path to success. 

By visiting Athena Career Academy's website, you can find a wide variety of information on the various nursing programs offered, admission requirements, financial aid information, and much more.