Have you ever wanted to watch the process of recovery happen right before your very eyes? Do you want to play an impact in the recovery of said patient? Or, perhaps you just want to use your skills outside of a traditional hospital setting. Luckily, you’ll be able to help those come back from trauma as a rehabilitation nurse. While this might sound similar to a traditional nursing assignment, rehabilitation nurses typically work with patients for an extended period of time as they recover from a serious injury or illness. In addition, you’ll provide essential support to patients and their families or caregivers as they move from health care facilities back into their daily lives. Below, we’ve provided an overview so you can figure out how to become a rehabilitation nurse.
Become a Rehabilitation Nurse
What do they do?
Rehabilitative nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who typically hold at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and demonstrate not just the medical knowledge to do the job, but an extraordinary level of patience, innovation, and teamwork. Many nurses choose to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in order to become a clinical nurse specialist (CNS). And the advantages of earning your MSN include not just advancing your knowledge of rehabilitative nursing but broadening your career opportunities. Whether it’s an RN or BSN degree, both are accepted in the field. Rehab nurses will ensure that patients get back on his or her feet in no time.
While you don’t need a specific degree to become a rehabilitation nurse, you still need to have a few traits that will help you succeed in the field. Patience is an important trait to have if you decide to become a rehabilitation nurse. The rehab process can be long and grueling in many cases, so it’s important that you’re able to remain patient as they recover. Rehabilitation nurses must be extremely supportive and encouraging. They often help patients feel empowered, and by giving them hope, they can help their patients reach seemingly impossible goals.
It’s also important that you continue to help both the patients and family members as they go through the recovery process. It can be very confusing and difficult when dealing with someone suffering from a disability. This is why rehabilitation nurses also act as educators and supporters in addition to their other roles. Nurses also ensure that families understand what a patient is going through. Rehab nurse also make sure that both family members and the patient have the best possible care. Rehab nurses will provide a much-needed shoulder to lean on.
Career Outlook
Technological advances, an emphasis on preventive care and a number of other factors contribute to the anticipated growth of the nursing profession. And advanced practice nurses, such as certified rehabilitation CNSs, will be needed to fill vacancies in clinical practice and in nursing education as a result of experienced nurses retiring or simply leaving the profession. As the population ages, we can expect more injuries to occur. This will lead to a greater number of nurses that will be needed.
Typically, rehabilitation nurses will earn an average income of anywhere from $32.37 to $38.32 per hour, or approximately $65,470 per year. You’re embarking on a journey that is financially and mentally rewarding. It’s time to start today! You’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of rehab locations. Make sure to find the best one that suits your needs! Find your ideal destination today!
If you need help finding the ideal rehab nurse destination, check out the thousands of jobs we have! It’s time to start your new journey today!
