Different Types of Nursing

The following contains some different types of nursing, plus a description of each, including a general overview of the daily tasks involved.

General Nursing

These professionals typically have a strong foundational knowledge in basic nursing care. They can practice in many different types of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Their daily tasks involve providing stabilization care, managing stress, administering medications, and provide emergency support as needed.

Nurse Educator

Nurse educators have received advanced and special education in order to not only become registered nurses, but teachers, as well. Some may choose to be full-time educators, while others only take this position in a part time role. Typically, these professionals work in teaching hospitals and nursing schools in a general or specialized area of study. Even if an individual chooses to become a full time educator, they still need to keep current with the latest nursing methods and newest technology.

Occupational Health Nurse

OHNs work with employers and companies to design and develop health and safety programs. Their job is to understand safety and prevention methods in relation to hazardous exposure and workers' illnesses and injuries. These individuals are also typically in charge of emergency preparedness, employee treatment and follow-up, and return-to-work issues.

Intensive/Critical Care Nursing

The role of these nurses is to care for the most unstable and critically ill patients, typically found in intensive care units and emergency departments. Intensive care nurses usually specialize in treating babies, children, or adults. On a day-to-day basis, these professionals will analyze patients in critical condition, give intensive therapy, and maintain life support systems. This career is typically fast-paced and involves a complex working environment.

Diabetes Nursing

These nurses work primarily with patients who have diabetes. Most of their time will be spent helping patients monitor their blood sugar and giving nutritional therapy. These nurses will also be well-versed in the proper diet, exercise, and lifestyle those with diabetes should lead. Some diabetes nurses choose to become diabetes educators, or diabetes nurse consultants.