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Nursing is profession within the health care industry that focuses on the care of patients and their families. Individuals pursuing a career in the field have the option of choosing between different levels of nursing. While licensed vocational nurses are required to complete a diploma or certificate program, registered nurses must graduate with an associate's or bachelor's degree. Nurse practitioners must complete a master's degree and may be required to have experience as a registered nurse before enrolling in a program.
Licensed Practical Nurses
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Licensed practical nurses work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians and provide basic care to patients. Duties may include taking vitals, dressing wounds, collecting samples and monitoring catheters. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that licensed practical nurses earned a median salary of $39,820 per year in 2009. The top 10 percent of nurses made $55,090, while the lowest 10 percent earned $28,890. The highest paying careers are available in nursing care facilities, general and surgical hospitals, physician offices, home health care services and community care facilities for the elderly.
Registered Nurses
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Registered nurses focus on overall patient care and work to promote general health and to prevent illness. While registered nurses may focus on a specific area of health care, primary duties may include giving injections, counseling patients and conducting physical exams. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2009, the median salary for registered nurses is $63,750 per year. Registered nurses in the top 90th percentile earned $93,700, and the bottom 10 percent made $43,970 per year. The top places of employment for registered nurses are in general and surgical hospitals, physician offices, home health care services, nursing care facilities and outpatient care centers.
Nurse Practitioners
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Nurse practitioners must complete a graduate degree in nursing and are involved in all aspects of patient care. These nurses are qualified to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Salary.com reports that nurse practitioners earned a median salary of $87,821 per year in 2010. While the top 10 percent of nurse practitioners earned over $101,000 per year, the lowest 10 percent earned under $75,000 per year. Careers may be available in emergency rooms, neonatal units, nursing homes and specialty care departments.
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