Individuals looking to become employed in the medical field can choose between different job positions that require various levels of training. Some require more education and training and others don't. Depending on your skill level and experience will determine how much your salary will be.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Nursing is one of the most popular healthcare fields out there today. The position of a certified nursing assistant is to provide bedside care and assist patients with their day-to-day needs, such using the restroom, eating and getting around. Helping patients take their medication and making sure they have good hygiene is another part of being a CNA. Assisting patients do things they are unable to do for themselves is a part of this nursing position. Also, the CNA usually works under the supervision of an RN, registered nurse. In order to become a CNA, you must complete a 150 hours of instruction and job training. In 2010, payscale.com said that CNA's can expect hourly salaries between $10 and $14, depending on their experience.
Licensed Practical Nurse
An LPN, or licensed practical nurse, is another popular nursing position available. In this field, you are required to provide an advanced level of care; compared to a CNA. In some cases, you may even supervise the work of a CNA. Depending on the location you're working in will determine what type of health care services you will provide. Typically, an LPN is required to collect samples from patients for testing purposes, dress wounds and take vital signs. To qualify for a license in practical nursing, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED. The training you'll receive can take between one to three years to complete, depending on the level of licensure you're looking to obtain and the area you're looking to work in. In 2010, payscale.com predicted that hourly salaries for LPNs would be between $15 and $22, depending on experience level.
Registered Nurse
An RN, or registered nurse, is a health care provider that offers a variety of services to patients. In some jurisdictions, RNs are limited to the amount of assistance they're able to provide, then others may allow their RNs to provide the utmost patient services, which may include writing prescriptions. In some cases, RNs may supervise LPNs and CNAs that pertain to their job duties. To become a registered nurse, you will need to complete rigorous training and three to five years of higher education. Once completing the training and courses required, an RN is required to take a difficult licensing examination. In 2010, payscale.com predicts that RNs will make between $25 and $35 hourly, depending on their location and level of experience.
Physician
As a physician, you will be providing the highest level of patient care services. In order to become a physician, you must complete extensive training and education. You will need to graduate from an accredited university and complete a four year degree at an accredited medical school. Then after completing medical school, you will have to endure an internship and residency, which can be as long as 7 years. At payscale.com, it was predicted that in 2010, physicians would receive annual salaries between $125,000 and $500,000, depending on specialty and experience.
