Nursing Roles & Specialties
Nursing is a broad profession with multiple levels of education, licensure, and scope of practice. From bedside care to independent prescribing, nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system.
NursingCertified Nursing Assistant
CNA
CNAs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs and LPNs. Duties include helping patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as taking vital signs and reporting changes in patient condition.
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NursingLicensed Practical Nurse
LPN / LVN
LPNs (called LVNs in California and Texas) provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and physicians. They administer medications, dress wounds, monitor patients, and collect samples for testing.
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NursingRegistered Nurse
RN
The backbone of patient care. RNs assess patients, develop care plans, administer medications, perform procedures, and educate patients and families. They work in virtually every healthcare setting and can specialize in areas like ICU, oncology, or pediatrics.
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NursingNurse Practitioner
NP / APRN
Advanced practice registered nurses who can diagnose conditions, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and provide primary or specialty care. In many states, NPs practice independently without physician oversight. Specialties include family, pediatric, psychiatric, and acute care NPs.
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NursingNurse Anesthetist
CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist)
One of the highest-paid and most autonomous nursing roles. CRNAs administer anesthesia for surgical, obstetric, and other procedures. They are the primary anesthesia providers in many rural hospitals. CRNAs hold a doctoral degree and practice independently in most states.
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NursingCertified Nurse-Midwife
CNM
Advanced practice nurses specializing in women's health and childbirth. CNMs provide prenatal care, attend births, and offer gynecological and family planning services. They can prescribe medications and practice independently in most states.
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