Private Duty Nursing

One of the main aims of healthcare institutes is to make sure citizens in our society are healthy and free of illness. Nurses and doctors can be found in such institutions that have dedicated their careers to helping the ill. Over the years, we have seen a rise in number of nurses all across the country. These professionals offer all kinds of clinical care services to patients. It is hard to imagine a stable healthcare sector without skilled nurses. From pediatric nurses to travel nurses, all kinds of nurses can be found.

Private duty nurse education

Among all other nursing specialties, private duty nurses have acquired an important position in the field of healthcare. These nurses can be defined as healthcare professionals who provide one on one care to patients. A private duty nurse is required to work with one patient at a time. Such nurses can be found working in homes, old homes, and hospitals.

Private duty nurses have a long history that dates back to the early 19^th century. However, in those days, such nurses were only able to acquire basic training. Nowadays, the wide variety of nursing degree programs available has allowed these nurses to gain more knowledge, skill, and practical experience. There are many different nursing programs that one can consider earning to become a nurse. If an individual wishes to become an entry level nurse, he or she can simple enroll in an LPN program and prepare for a basic nursing career ahead. On the other hand, for more advanced level nursing, RN, BSN, and MSN programs are available.

The curriculum of nursing programs comprises of theoretical subjects and many practice based courses. Students spend a great deal of time working in healthcare settings and developing clinical skills. Once a student acquires relevant nursing education, he or she is eligible to appear in nursing licensing examinations conducted by a state’s nursing board. Without a license, one cannot provide healthcare services professionally.

What a Private Duty Nurse Does

A private duty nurse is required to fulfill a number of job duties. These can vary from case to case but generally include the following:

• Administer medication according to a doctor’s specifications
• Evaluate, observe and monitor patient’s vital signs
• Perform emergency medical procedures when necessary
• Record a patient’s development over time
• Communicate with patient’s family
• Plan and supervise diets

It is important to know that a private duty nurse can specialize in a particular field and work with patients suffering from a similar condition. Some major areas where private duty nursing is prevalent include psychiatry, obstetrics, and tuberculosis.
Career Outlook
A private duty nurse can work individually and take contracts on his or her own. On the other hand, certain healthcare institutions may also hire private duty nurses for specific patient cases. The income level for these nurses ranges somewhere between $65,000 and $85,000 per year. Specialization, employer, and work experience play a great role in determining the exact salary level. Private duty nurses will be in high demand in the coming years, making this a great career choice.