There are a variety of different types of nursing fields that you could choose to work in. It can be very overwhelming at first, but if you have two different passions you would like to combine then it can actually be quite simple. Depending on how much time you have to spend in school, you may want to start out as an LPN. Or you may want to go as far as to become a forensic nurse. Regardless, they are equally important and have lots of opportunities available.
With the growing use of technology in crime solving, forensic nurses have to know how to properly collect evidence so it can be examined and used in court. Being an expert witness for the court is just part of the duties of forensic nurses. Caregivers with an interest in detective work and the law could investigate a career in forensic nursing. Forensic means pertaining to the law.
Forensic nurses provide health care to patients who are likely to enter the court system. Victims of assault, abuse and neglect quickly learn about forensic nurses. Forensic nurses may also have suspected criminals and prisoners as patients. These highly trained registered nurses (RNs) usually have experience in emergency room nursing. They ensure that evidence is collected properly and can be used in court. Like all RNs, they must teach patients about medical conditions and give advice and emotional support.
Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse (LPN or LVN) jobs are actually the same role despite the slight difference in name. The LVN title is only used in Texas and California. The job involves a variety of daily tasks ranging from dressing wounds to feeding infants. Most LPNs are trained to work in all aspects of health care, but there are some who specialize in certain areas.
LPNs/LVNs can be found in all kinds of medical settings, like hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, nursing homes and even in a patient’s own home. While the general LPN role doesn’t change, there can be variations in your duties depending on where you work. For example, LPNs/LVNs in a physician’s office may do some administrative tasks like making appointments, whereas an LPN in a hospital may find themselves with more advanced nursing responsibilities in an emergency room.
How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner?
It typically takes about four years to become a nurse practitioner.
There are so many different types of nurses that the world is full of. No matter which field you choose to study, you will always find what you are looking for. Do plenty of research to make sure you have found the right program for you.