How to Become a Rehabilitation Nurse
**Steps to Become a Rehabilitation Nurse**
Individuals dealing with acute and long-term illnesses, injuries, and disabilities rely on the specialized skills and compassion of rehabilitation nurses. Some of these nurses focus on managing pain to assist their patients. The opportunity to help others and positively impact their lives is a primary reason many choose this career.
Rehabilitation nurses are integral members of a healthcare team. They utilize all clinical skills acquired in nursing education to deliver optimal care. The role's adaptability and diverse patient demographics make it appealing in the nursing profession.
This discussion will cover: 1. What duties do rehabilitation nurses have? 2. Who do they work with? 3. How does one pursue a career in rehabilitation nursing? 4. What is the salary range for these nurses?
**What duties do rehabilitation nurses have?**
The Association of Rehabilitation Nurses describes a rehab nurse's life as dynamic and multifaceted. These nurses collaborate with healthcare teams to focus on patient care. They coordinate interventions, advocate for patient needs, and educate patients and families on achieving the best treatment outcomes to regain independence.
Responsibilities can vary by workplace, but common tasks include: - Coordinating with other healthcare professionals - Educating patients, families, and caregivers on conditions and treatment plans - Administering medications as prescribed - Assisting patients in adjusting to lifestyle changes while promoting independence - Creating and revising nursing care plans
Rehabilitation nurses spend considerable time with patients, making strong communication skills vital.
**Who do rehab nurses work with?**
A rehab nurse's flexibility is a major job benefit. They support patients with conditions like ALS, traumatic brain injuries, joint replacements, and spinal cord injuries, helping them relearn essential skills to maintain independence. Rehab nurses operate in: - Community and private hospitals - Government institutions - Home health agencies - Independent rehab facilities - Long-term acute care centers - Skilled nursing facilities with rehab services - Academic medical centers
**How does one pursue a career in rehabilitation nursing?**
Becoming a rehabilitation nurse involves several steps. Operating as registered nurses (RNs), they follow a similar educational path:
1. **Nursing education** Enroll in an accredited nursing program to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN generally offers more opportunities and potentially higher pay.
2. **NCLEX-RN exam** After completing educational requirements, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN, which involves 75-145 questions over 5 hours. The exam can be retaken after 45 days if needed.
3. **Obtain specialized certification** While not mandatory, rehab nurses can pursue Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) certification for career advancement. Certified nurses often earn higher salaries than non-certified ones.
Licensed rehab nurses must engage in continuing education to maintain their licenses. It's important to check with state nursing boards for required continuing education units (CEUs), with many online resources available.
**What is the salary range for rehabilitation nurses?**
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average annual salary for all RNs is about $82,750. Recently, rehabilitation nurses earn an average of $83,234, ranging from $70,476 to $104,995, depending on location and facility type. Salaries typically increase with experience and further education. A salary estimator tool can provide personalized salary estimates based on location and specialty, aiding in job search decisions.
The demand for rehabilitation nurses is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031. As people live longer, the need for rehab nurses will rise. Advances in medical care and treatment options will further drive demand in this field.
**Future paths**
Rehabilitation nurses can explore career advancements, such as pursuing advanced degrees. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can lead to roles as rehabilitation nurse practitioners.
