Let's explore the top five highest-paying nursing professions in the U.S., including the average salaries, salary ranges, job responsibilities, and the education and certifications required for each role.
Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
Median salary: $203,090
Salary range: $170,000 - $227,000
Job description: CRNAs are advanced practice nurses specializing in providing anesthesia related care before, during, and after medical procedures. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient facilities. They collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Education & certifications: To become a CRNA, individuals must maintain a valid registered nurse (RN) license and complete a nurse anesthesia program at the master's or doctoral level. Additionally, CRNAs must pass the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).
Nurse practitioner (NP)
Median salary: $121,610
Salary range: $100,000-$135,000
Job description: Nurse practitioners can specialize in providing primary and acute care to patients of all phases of life, from birth to death. They assess and manage common health issues, order diagnostic tests, perform physical exams, provide health education, and prescribe medications. Nurse practitioners work in various settings, including primary care practices, specialty clinics, and long-term care facilities. They collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care.
Education & certifications: To become a nurse practitioner, individuals must obtain a valid RN license and have completed a master's or doctoral degree in nursing. National certification is required through one of five main certification boards, depending on which NP program is completed.
Nurse midwife
Median Salary: $120,880
Salary Range: $100,000-$137,000
Job description: Nurse midwives are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in comprehensive pregnancy care (from prenatal care to childbirth and postpartum recovery). While they primarily focus on pregnancy care, these providers may also offer general women’s reproductive health and preventive care.
Education and certification: Nurse midwives must maintain a valid RN license and typically hold a masters or doctoral degree in nursing mid-wifery. National certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) is required.
Nurse researcher
Median salary: $98,078
Salary range: $70,000 - $136,000
Job description: Nurse researchers conduct scientific studies and clinical trials to advance nursing knowledge and improve patient care outcomes. They work in academic institutions, healthcare organizations, and research facilities. Through designing and implementing research projects, analyzing data, and publishing their findings in scholarly journals, nurse researchers play a crucial role in shaping evidence-based practice and driving innovation in healthcare.
Education & certifications: Nurse researchers must maintain a valid RN license and typically hold a master's or doctoral degree in nursing, with a focus on research methodology and evidence-based practice. Many nurse researchers also pursue certification through organizations like the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA) or the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).
Nursing administrator
Median salary: $87,230
Salary range: $74,576-$99,740
Job description: Nursing administrators utilize their clinical nursing experience and leadership skills to direct and manage the daily operations of the nursing team. Responsibilities include making employee schedules, creating and maintaining budgets, and tracking department goals. These roles are available in hospitals, nursing homes or rehabilitation centers.
Education & certifications: To become a nursing administrator, individuals must maintain a valid RN license and complete a master’s degree in nursing leadership and management. While certification is not required, The American Organization for Nursing Leaders offers certifications for Executive Nursing Practice and Certified Nurse Manager and Leader.
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