In Louisiana and across the country, nurses play an extremely important role in providing care for patients, taking on many of the responsibilities traditionally entrusted to doctors. With the challenges presented by an aging population, growing numbers of lifestyle diseases, and an expanding healthcare system, the medical community is relying more and more on nurses every day. In Baton Rouge, there is a demand for nurses at all levels. Below, you can read about the main types of nurses in greater detail.
Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
Certified nursing assistants provide the most basic level of care, aiding patients with everyday essentials such as bathing, getting dressed, and eating. CNAs assist licensed practical nurses and registered nurses with medical tasks, taking vital signs, and monitoring symptoms. CNA programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools, and can be completed in a matter of weeks, making this the quickest and most affordable way to begin a career in healthcare. In Baton Rouge, certified nursing assistants generally earn around $20,600 per year.
Licensed practical nurses provide a more advanced level of care and are given more responsibilities. They report to doctors and registered nurses to provide for their patients’ overall well-being, monitoring symptoms, administering medications, and reporting any changes in a patient’s health or wellness. Like CNA programs, LPN programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools. They typically take between 12 and 18 months to complete. In Baton Rouge, licensed practical nurses can expect to earn around $37,300 per year.
Registered nurse (RN)
Registered nurses provide a high level of medical care, helping doctors to manage their crowded schedules and managing a team of other nurses and medical support staff. RNs help to plan, implement, and assess all levels of patient care. There are two educational options for RNs: a two-year associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. The associate’s degree program is a faster path to a nursing career. That said, the bachelor’s degree program gives nurses a more intensive training, an edge on the job market, and usually correlates with higher wages. In Baton Rouge, registered nurses can expect to earn around $63,100 per year.
Baton Rouge is home to Our Lady of the Lake College, Baton Rouge Medical Center, and many other nursing schools and facilities. If you’re interested in finding out about these and other nursing schools in the Baton Rouge area, take a look at the list of programs below.