If you already have a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) and are a Registered Nurse (RN) then your options for further advancement can sometimes get a bit complex. If you do not want to pursue higher education (namely a Masters of Science in Nursing) then it is best you take a look at the article Specialization Options for RNs. However, if you want to see what your options will be after an MSN read on.
Doing an MSN usually takes about two years. You can do the course online if you want. It is recommended that you have some work experience before pursuing an MSN, so that you can apply the learning to your previous practical experience. Many MSN programs require you to be a RN and have 1 to 2 years of clinical experience to be considered for admission. Once you finish your MSN you have four advanced practical specializations that you can move into.
1. Clinical Nurse Specialists
2. Nurse Anesthetists
3. Nurse Midwives
4. Nurse Practitioners
Clinical nurse specialists provide patient care similar to a physician. They are allowed to prescribe medicines and provide expert counseling as well. Clinical nurse specialists are specialized in a certain area, usually one in which they already have some experience in.
Nurse anesthetists are usually involved with a hospital or major clinic. They are involved in providing anesthesia, usually at the direction of an anesthesiologist, before and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic and obstetrical procedures. Due to this, they usually work closely with a physician and an associated hospital. However, they are also involved in providing care in emergency services as well.
Nurse midwives are involved in providing primary care to women which includes gynecological exams, expert counseling for family planning, prenatal care, assistance in delivery, and neonatal care. Nurse midwives commonly work for hospitals, however they are also found in smaller clinics, usually associated with a practicing gynecologist.
Nurse practitioners are primary care and specialty care health professionals. They work in a variety of specialties and can be found in a variety of work environments. Common specialty areas are family practice, pediatrics, geriatrics, and acute care.
Advanced practice nurses are the pinnacle of nursing. They are allowed to prescribe medicines in all the states and the District of Columbia. Many of them work independently of a physician, however usually this is not the case. There are other areas of specialization that you can enter into after an MSN that do not involve providing primary care at all, such as legal nurse consultants, and forensic nurses. The potential career choices are many and make doing an MSN worthwhile.
