Key Insights
Registered Nurses are a dynamic career within the sector, offering a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for professionals seeking meaningful work.
The median annual salary for this occupation is $93,600, which is above the typical salary for this field. Over the next decade, employment is projected to grow by 5.0%, following overall growth trends and steady opportunities . The automation risk for this occupation is 5.0%. This suggests a high degree of job security, as automation is less likely to impact this role in the near future. Work-life balance is rated as 6.8, which can be an important factor for job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Individuals with Social, Investigative, or Conventional personality traits tend to thrive in this career. Key skills for success include Critical-thinking skills, Communication skills, Compassion, Detail oriented, Emotional stability, Organizational skills, Physical stamina. Developing and refining these abilities can set you apart from other candidates and help you excel in your role. Notable strengths for this occupation are High Demand, Flexible Work, Continuous Learning. Leveraging these strengths can lead to greater job satisfaction and career advancement. Some common challenges professionals may encounter include Burnout Risk, Rapid Technological Change. Being aware of these potential obstacles can help you prepare and develop strategies to overcome them.
The highest employment levels for this occupation are found in California, offering strong job prospects in that region. The leading industry for this role is Government, excluding state and local education and hospitals, which may provide additional opportunities for specialization and growth.
Whether you are just starting your career journey or looking to make a change, Registered Nurses offers a compelling mix of salary potential, job outlook, and personal fit. By understanding the key factors that influence success in this field, you can make informed decisions and position yourself for long-term achievement.
What They Do
Registered Nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public, and offer support to families. They assess patient conditions, administer treatments, and collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure optimal health outcomes. Their work is critical in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.
This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy healthcare, patient interaction, and problem-solving in medical environments.
What Do Registered Nurses Do?
These professionals monitor patient health, administer treatments, and provide guidance for maintaining wellness.
Common responsibilities include:
- Assessing and recording patient medical histories and symptoms
- Administering medications, treatments, and vaccinations
- Coordinating with physicians and healthcare providers to plan patient care
- Educating patients and families about health management and disease prevention
- Monitoring patient progress and adjusting care plans as needed
- Maintaining accurate and confidential medical records
- Responding to emergencies and providing critical care
Key Areas of Nursing
Registered nurses may specialize in specific patient care areas or clinical functions:
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: Caring for hospitalized patients with various conditions
- Pediatric or Geriatric Nursing: Providing care for children or elderly patients
- Critical Care and Emergency Nursing: Managing acute or life-threatening situations
- Community and Public Health Nursing: Educating and promoting health in populations
- Specialty Nursing: Focusing on fields like oncology, cardiology, or surgical care
Skills and Abilities Needed
Registered nurses combine clinical knowledge, technical skills, and interpersonal abilities.
Core Professional Skills
- Patient assessment and clinical evaluation - Medication administration and treatment procedures - Health education and counseling - Emergency response and critical care - Documentation and recordkeeping - Collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare teamsPersonal Qualities That Matter
- Empathy and compassion - Strong communication and interpersonal skills - Critical thinking and problem-solving - Attention to detail and accuracy - Emotional resilience and adaptability - Ethical judgment and professionalismEducation and Career Pathway
This role typically requires formal education and licensure:
- Bachelor’s or Associate Degree in Nursing: Accredited nursing programs
- Clinical Training or Practicum: Hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare settings
- Licensure: Passing the NCLEX-RN exam to practice as a registered nurse
- Specialty Certifications (optional): Advanced practice or focused clinical areas
- Continuing Education: Maintaining licensure and staying current with medical practices
Where Do Registered Nurses Work?
They are employed in organizations providing direct patient care and health services:
- Hospitals and Medical Centers
- Clinics and Physician Offices
- Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities
- Community Health and Public Health Agencies
- Schools, Research Institutions, and Home Health Services
Work environments include patient rooms, clinics, hospitals, and community health sites.
Is This Career Difficult?
This career requires strong medical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. Nurses must manage patient care, handle emergencies, and maintain professional standards.
Who Should Consider This Career?
This career may be a strong fit if you:
- Enjoy helping and caring for others
- Are detail-oriented and able to handle stress
- Have strong communication and critical thinking skills
- Are compassionate, ethical, and resilient
- Want a career providing essential healthcare services
How to Prepare Early
- Take courses in biology, chemistry, and health sciences
- Volunteer or work in healthcare settings
- Develop communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills
- Explore accredited nursing programs and clinical training opportunities
- Stay informed on healthcare practices, medical technology, and patient care standards
Registered nurses provide essential patient care, promote health education, and support families, ensuring quality healthcare and positive outcomes across diverse medical settings.
Career Video
Key facts
Top Skills
StartRight Career Intelligence Metrics
Job Growth Outlook
+5.0%Automation Risk Assessment
Low RiskWork-Life Balance Score
6.8/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 326,720
- Texas 261,050
- Florida 218,100
- New York 204,120
- Pennsylvania 146,840
- Illinois 139,900
- Ohio 138,360
- North Carolina 108,510
- Michigan 104,210
- Georgia 97,410
Regional Wage Variations
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California +50%$140,330
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Texas -4%$90,010
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Florida -11%$82,850
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New York +13%$105,600
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Pennsylvania -6%$87,610
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Illinois -8%$86,410
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Ohio -13%$81,250
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North Carolina -13%$81,860
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Michigan -8%$85,670
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Georgia -8%$86,560