What does a clinic nurse do?
Clinic nurses examine patients, obtain medical histories, review medical charts, administer immunizations, and assist with many different treatments and procedures. They screen patients for the degree of medical needs and provide information to physicians. They perform assessments and observe, record, and report patient conditions. Clinic nurses are also responsible for providing education to patients and arranging follow-up care. They prepare the necessary equipment before procedures and ensure that it is properly cleaned and sanitized after procedures are completed. Some clinic nurses are responsible for clerical tasks such as scheduling appointments and organizing clinic services. Some also make sure the clinic is clean, stocked, and abides by Infection Control Policies. Many clinic nurses provide training and education to other staff members.
What kind of training does a clinic nurse need?
Clinic nurses must become registered nurses by completing a diploma, associate degree, or bachelor degree program in nursing. Most clinic nurses have either an associate or bachelor degree in nursing. All nursing programs provide classroom and laboratory instruction and supervised clinical experience. Prospective clinic nurses typically complete courses in anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, pharmacology, nutrition, psychology, and nursing ethics. All states require registered nurses to be licensed. Licensing requirements include graduation from an approved nursing program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). Clinic nurses must complete regular continuing education to maintain their licenses, keep their skills up to date, and stay abreast on the current advancements in the field.
What are the prospects for a career as a clinic nurse?
Employment of all registered nurses is expected to grow much faster than average for all professions, increasing 23% from 2006 to 2016 (1).
Job prospects are expected to be excellent especially for clinic nurses with extensive experience and advanced education. Numerous job openings will arise from the need to replace clinic nurses that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do clinic nurses make?
As of December 2009, the average annual salary for clinic nurses is $48,000; average annual clinic nurse salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a clinic nurse is a great choice for people with a strong interest in providing care for patients in clinic settings. Clinic nurses must have a solid understanding of clinic nursing practices and ability to apply them to a variety of situations. Patience, detail orientation, sympathy, critical thinking, and good problem solving skills are essential characteristics. Clinic nurses must have excellent communication and ability to interact with many different patients and other healthcare professionals. They must be able to work under stress and pressure and as part of a team.
