* Hospital RN: This is the most common path for ADN graduates. You might work in various departments, such as medical-surgical, pediatrics, intensive care, emergency, or labor and delivery. Your specific unit will often depend on hospital needs and your interests.
* Long-term care facility RN: Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation centers employ many RNs to provide care for elderly or chronically ill patients.
* Outpatient clinic RN: Clinics offer a less intense environment than hospitals, often focusing on specific specialties like cardiology, oncology, or family practice.
* Home health RN: You'll provide care to patients in their homes, requiring independent work and strong assessment skills.
* School nurse: This role involves caring for students' health needs in a school setting.
* Occupational health nurse: You would work in a company's health clinic, providing care and injury prevention to employees.
It's important to note that while an ADN opens the door to RN positions, many hospitals and other facilities prefer or require RNs to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) within a certain timeframe after employment. Therefore, many ADN graduates pursue further education to obtain their BSN. This allows for advancement opportunities and potentially higher earning potential.