Choosing to become a registered nurse (RN) can be a stepping stone to a number of other careers in healthcare. If you continue your education by pursuing a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree, you could move into a role in nursing administration, education, or gain expertise in a number of specialty fields. Nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, and nurse anesthetist are three of the most common specialty roles assumed by MSN degree-holders. These roles are described in greater detail below.
Nurse practitioner (NP)
Nurse practitioners are qualified to take on many of the same tasks and provide the same services as physicians, and are entrusted with a very high level of responsibility on the job. In the healthcare system today, it is often difficult and more costly to see a doctor, so many patients are deciding to be seen by nurse practitioners instead for routine visits. Patients are reportedly highly satisfied with the primary care they receive from NPs, and this is a role that is only becoming more important in healthcare over time. Nurse practitioners in the state of Louisiana make approximately $91,700 per year.
Nurse midwives help with pregnancies and deliveries. They also perform physical exams and provide gynecological care.
Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
Certified registered nurse anesthetists collaborate with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other medical professionals in order to provide anesthesia for medical procedures. In rural and underserved areas, they are often the primary providers of anesthesia. CRNAs are responsible for the care of patients before, during, and after medical procedures. In the state of Louisiana, nurse anesthetists make approximately $143,000 per year, making this an extremely lucrative specialty.
In addition to the jobs mentioned above, there are a number of other specializations available to nurses with advanced degrees. In Louisiana, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is one of the top employers of nurses with advanced degrees.
Below you can find a comprehensive list of accredited nursing schools offering master of science in nursing programs in Louisiana.