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If you are considering a career in nursing, there are a lot of different types of roles available, from Clinical Nurse Specialists to Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. You should take a look at the pros and cons of the following five nursing career options, and explore other available nursing roles. 

You will then be in a better position to decide which career path to choose and which study program can provide you with the skills and qualifications you need to acquire.

1. Registered Nurse (RN)

Pros: As an RN, you’ll be at the heart of patient care, making critical decisions and implementing care plans. You get to work closely with patients and their families, offering empathy and support during tough times. The demand for RNs is always high, giving you excellent job security. 

Cons: On the other hand, being an RN can also mean long hours, sometimes involving night shifts, weekends, or holidays. It is a physically demanding job as well. It will require the lifting and moving of patients. So, this role may not be suitable if you prefer standard office hours or have physical limitations.

2. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Pros: One of the most enticing aspects of being an NP is that you will have more authority than an RN. NPs can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. They often specialize in areas such as family medicine. As an NP, you would have a lot of variety in your day-to-day work and you have the opportunity to command higher pay compared to RNs.

Cons: On the flip side, becoming an NP requires more education than becoming an RN. You will need a Master’s degree in nursing, which takes time and money to complete. The responsibility of an RN is greater too. Hence, this role can bring about more stress due to the accountability for patient health outcomes.

3. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Pros: CRNAs play a vital role in surgical teams, administering anesthesia to patients. As a CRNA, you would have one of the highest wages in the nursing field. Plus, this specialty allows you to work in a wide variety of settings, from hospitals to dental offices.

Cons: However, becoming a CRNA requires intensive training besides extensive experience in critical care. There is also high professional liability and responsibility that comes with this job; given the delicate nature of dispensing anesthesia for surgical procedures.

4. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

Pros: Working as a CNS, you’ll focus on improving patient outcomes within specialized areas like oncology or diabetes management. This role combines clinical practice with teaching and research which adds diversity to your career path.

Cons: Becoming a CNS requires additional education beyond an RN license, usually at least a Master’s degree. While there is potential for higher earnings, the increase in responsibility and workload can lead to more stress.

5. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (Psych NP)

Pros: As a Psych NP you will have an opportunity to provide care for individuals, families, and groups with psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and anxiety, or potential for such disorders. You can diagnose, conduct therapy, provide emergency psychological services, and prescribe medication as well. It is a rewarding position and it offers a lucrative salary.

Cons: To become a Psych NP, you will need additional schooling. You will typically need to acquire a Master’s degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing. You may also need significant hands-on clinical experience before getting certified.

Final Thoughts

Each nursing position differs in its pros and cons, so make sure you take time to carefully determine which area of practice you would enjoy working in the most.

At the end of the day, finding the right nursing role for you is all about identifying the best fit for your passion, skills, and lifestyle preferences.