Registered Nurse (RN)
Registered Nurse (RN)
Nursing home RNs provide a key role in ensuring the well-being of one of our most vulnerable populations. They work in an environment that emphasizes teamwork and building lasting relationships with patients and their families.
RNs develop care plans, give treatments and medications, perform diagnostic tests, work with physicians to coordinate care, and supervise LPNs/LVNs and CNAs.
Becoming an RN in a nursing home
RNs complete an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an approved program. Then, they pass a comprehensive national test (NCLEX-RN) and meet state licensure and certification requirements.
How can I advance my career as an RN in a nursing home?
These are some, but not all of the positions you could advance to if you work as an RN in a nursing home. Training, certification, costs, and duties vary by state.
Charge Nurse
Education: RN required, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred, plus passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Training/Education Cost: $40,000 - $100,000 for BSN
Duties: Oversee on-shift RNs, LPNs, and CNAs, coordinate patient care, and ensure continuous operation and management of the nursing unit.
Resident Assessment Coordinator
Training: RN with on-the-job training, or completed a related training program.
Training/Education Cost: Up to $1,000 for related training
Duties: Assess patients' needs, and coordinate personalized, resident-driven care based on those assessments.
Director of Nursing (DON)
Training/education: Usually requires 3-5 years of management experience as an RN, with additional certifications in healthcare administration or leadership. Masters in Nursing (MSN) preferred
Training/Education Cost: Up to to $100,000+, depending on education, certifications, and optional advanced degrees.
Duties: Oversee the entire nursing staff and nursing operations, develop policy, and make sure compliance is met.
Nurse Practitioner
Education: Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with additional certification.
Training/Education Cost: $30,000–$70,000 for MSN; $40,000–$100,000 for DNP
Duties: Provide advanced care, diagnose conditions, prescribe and give medications, and develop treatment plans.
Other positions include infection preventionist, wound care specialist, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), state nursing home inspector, and director of a state inspection agency.
Page Last Modified:
12/16/2024 10:50 AM