The role nurses play in the healthcare system is expanding, and nurses are taking on many of the responsibilities that have traditionally been entrusted to doctors. In Lafayette and all across the state of Louisiana, all levels of nurses are in high demand. Below, you can read about the main types of nurses in greater detail.
Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
If you are a naturally caring and social person, a career as a certified nursing assistant could be for you. CNAs provide the most basic level of care, aiding patients with essentials such as bathing, getting dressed, and eating. CNAs are important to the everyday lives of their patients and often form lasting friendships with them. CNA programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools. They can be completed in a matter of weeks, making this the quickest and most affordable way to begin a career in the medical field. In Lafayette, certified nursing assistants generally earn around $18,500 per year.
Licensed practical nurses report to doctors and registered nurses and provide for their patients’ overall well-being by monitoring symptoms, administering medications, and reporting any changes in a patient’s health or wellness. LPN programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools, and usually take 12 to 18 months to complete. In Lafayette, licensed practical nurses can expect to earn around $38,000 per year.
Registered nurse (RN)
Registered nursing is a good choice for those who are natural leaders. As an RN, you would manage a team of other nurses and medical support staff, helping them to plan, implement, and assess individualized 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 ADN is a faster route to a nursing career. However, the BSN provides a more intensive training, which proves advantageous on the job market and usually correlates with higher wages. In Lafayette, registered nurses can expect to earn around $57,000 per year.
There are a number of colleges in the Lafayette area with nursing programs, including the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and South Louisiana Community College. If you’re interested in learning about nursing schools in and around Lafayette, feel free to browse the below list of nursing programs in the area.