Nurses are called upon to deliver health care in a number of different environments. They may work in a small clinic or a large hospital, a community health project or a military base. They teach patients to manage their illnesses and medications, help families learn to cope with the demands of elder care, run blood drives or educate the public. Registered nurses may practice independently in their areas of qualification, while practical or vocational nurses operate under the supervision of a registered nurse or a physician.
Registered nurses are highly trained health care professionals. Many begin in the profession with a four-year bachelor's degree and go on to do graduate work. However, there are many positions open to nurses who enter the field with a two- or three-year vocational diploma or associate degree. Graduates must pass an examination before they will be licensed to practice. Associate degrees and vocational diplomas typically only qualify graduates for entry-level nursing positions, such as staff nurses. Many nurses choose to begin their career with these lower qualifications, then upgrade their education over time.
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) generally receive their training from technical and vocational schools or community colleges, though programs are available at some universities and many health care facilities. Most programs include a combination of classroom training and clinical experience. Each state has its own standards of training and licensing for LPNs. In general, their education will include courses such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, first aid and nutrition. The national examination for LPNs is called the National Council Licensure Examination or NCLEX-PN. Individual states may require additional testing or licensing.
Nursing assistants provide the first level of hands-on care for patients in many settings. They help patients dress and care for themselves, make beds, clean rooms and bring meals. Training is generally done at the community college or vocational school level, with programs ranging from a few weeks to one year. Nursing aides working in elder care facilities are required by federal law to pass an examination, after which they are known as certified nursing aides (CNAs).