Nurses have become critical to the healthcare system in Hawaii, taking on many of the responsibilities that have traditionally been entrusted to doctors. With the medical community relying more and more on nurses, and the need for healthcare on the rise, nursing has become a profession in high demand. In Honolulu, there are plenty of opportunities for nurses at all levels. Given the increasing responsibility in the field, it is essential that aspiring nurses have the best training available.
Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
Certified nursing assistants provide for the most basic level of patient care, helping with everyday activities like bathing, getting dressed, and eating. CNAs also help licensed practical nurses and registered nurses with some basic medical tasks, taking patients’ vital signs and monitoring symptoms. CNA programs only take several weeks to a few months to complete, so becoming a CNA is by far the fastest way to launch a career in the medical field. Additionally, since programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools, this tends to be an affordable way to launch your career. CNAs in Honolulu can expect to earn around $28,800 per year.
Licensed practical nurses provide for a higher level of patient care, and have more responsibilities in the workplace. LPNs report to physicians and registered nurses to provide for their patients’ overall well-being, monitoring symptoms, administering medications, and reporting any changes in a patient wellness. LPN programs generally take between 12 and 18 months to complete, and can be taken at vocational schools and community colleges. LPNs in Honolulu can expect to earn around $45,700 per year.
Registered nurse (RN)
Registered nurses provide for a high level of care, reporting directly to doctors and helping them manage a team of other nurses and medical support staff, planning, implementing, and assessing patient care. Aspiring RNs can either pursue 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 route to a nursing career; however, the bachelor’s degree program provides a more intensive training, a considerable advantage on the job market, and generally correlates with higher pay. RNs in Honolulu can expect to earn around $91,000 per year.
If you are interested in starting your nursing career in Honolulu, Hawaii, check out the below list of the best programs in the area.