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25 Alternative Jobs For Nurses (With Responsibilities and Requirements)
For many nurses, working in a traditional hospital setting may not be the ideal fit. Fortunately, there are numerous alternative career paths available that leverage nursing skills and experience. Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, transitioning to a new role can be both fulfilling and attainable.
This article highlights various alternative career options for nurses, detailing the responsibilities and requirements for each position. Explore these paths to find the right fit for your unique skill set and career aspirations.
Key Takeaways:
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The top three alternative nursing positions include procurement nurse, flight nurse, and Disney nurse.
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The top three non-nursing roles suitable for nurses are nutritionist, lactation consultant, and patient advocate.
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Essential nursing skills, such as critical thinking and clinical expertise, are highly applicable to various non-bedside healthcare professions.
8 Alternative Nursing Jobs
After obtaining a BSN or MSN, nurses can transition into non-clinical roles such as:
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Procurement Nurse
Average Yearly Salary: N/AProcurement nurses play a vital role in organ transplantation by coordinating the procurement of human organs. These professionals typically work for nonprofit organizations dedicated to organ donation.
Your medical and communication skills will be essential in evaluating donor health and organizing the transport of organs.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Identifying potential organ donors in collaboration with clinical care teams
- Assisting surgical teams during procedures
- Conducting audits for potential donors
- Implementing strategies to optimize organ donation
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Flight Nurse
Average Yearly Salary: N/AAs a flight nurse, you provide critical medical care to patients during air transport, ensuring their comfort and safety en route to healthcare facilities.
Your responsibilities may include daily checks of onboard medical equipment and training other medical personnel.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Assessing critically ill patients upon arrival and initiating treatment
- Communicating patient conditions to awaiting emergency departments
- Performing maintenance on medical equipment
- Assisting the flight crew to ensure a safe journey
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Dental Nurse
Average Annual Salary: $76,000Transitioning to a dental nurse role allows you to assist patients in a less stressful environment compared to traditional hospital settings. Dental nurses require specific training and certification.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Taking X-rays and evaluating dental health
- Providing oral health education to patients
- Performing teeth cleaning and assisting in various dental procedures
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Home Health Aide
Average Annual Salary: $27,000As a home health aide, you utilize your nursing skills to assist patients with daily living activities in the comfort of their homes, particularly those with chronic conditions.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Administering medications and providing emotional support
- Assisting with daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning
- Running errands and accompanying patients to appointments
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Disney Nurse
Average Yearly Salary: N/AWorking as a Disney nurse allows you to care for guests and employees within the theme parks, offering a unique and enjoyable alternative to traditional nursing roles.
Your role may involve physical activities, including navigating the park to attend to guests in need.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Assessing and treating injuries and illnesses
- Responding to medical emergencies on-site
- Maintaining accurate medical records
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Correctional Care Nurse
Average Yearly Salary: N/ACorrectional care nurses provide essential medical services to incarcerated individuals, addressing their healthcare needs during their time in custody.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Conducting initial medical assessments during intake
- Monitoring inmates for health concerns
- Educating inmates on health-related topics
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Parish/Faith Community Nurse
Average Yearly Salary: N/AParish nurses blend their medical expertise with spiritual care, addressing the health needs of their religious community.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Developing holistic health plans
- Organizing community health initiatives
- Providing support for congregants facing health challenges
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Community Health Nurse
Average Annual Salary: $56,000Community health nurses educate and implement health programs within various settings to enhance public health and well-being.
This role is experiencing growth as organizations focus on reaching underserved populations.
Job Responsibilities Include:
- Providing health education and resources
- Administering care to patients in their homes
- Supporting chronic disease management
17 Non-Nursing Jobs for Former Nurses
Some prominent non-nursing roles that leverage the skills of former nurses include:
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Nutritionist
Average Annual Salary: $46,000Former nurses can excel as nutritionists, utilizing their healthcare background to develop wellness programs and provide dietary advice in various settings.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in nutrition or related fields is typically required, along with relevant certifications.
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Medical Technologist
Average Annual Salary: $50,000Medical technologists analyze laboratory samples to assist in diagnosing and treating diseases, making this a suitable option for former nurses.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science or a related field is typically required.
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Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $56,000Sales representatives benefit from the communication and interpersonal skills developed during nursing, making it a viable career switch.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field is typically required.
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Lactation Consultant
Average Annual Salary: $68,000For nurses with experience in maternity care, lactation consultancy is a rewarding option that supports new mothers.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field, along with certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), is required.
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Medical Script Nurse
Average Yearly Salary: N/AMedical script nurses consult with film and television studios to ensure accurate medical terminology and practices are depicted.
Job Requirements: N/A
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Patient Advocate
Average Annual Salary: $35,000Patient advocates help individuals navigate the healthcare system, ensuring they receive appropriate care and resources.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree and relevant experience are typically required.
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Medical Journalist
Average Yearly Salary: N/AFormer nurses can leverage their medical knowledge in journalism, reporting on health-related topics and research discoveries.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as journalism or communications is preferred.
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Nurse Lobbyist
Average Yearly Salary: N/ANurse lobbyists work to influence healthcare policy and legislation, bringing their clinical insights to the legislative process.
Job Requirements: N/A
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Vice President
Average Annual Salary: $178,000Former nurses can thrive in executive positions due to their critical thinking and people skills.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree and significant managerial experience are typically required.
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Grant Writer
Average Annual Salary: $48,000Grant writers play a crucial role in securing funds for healthcare projects, utilizing their understanding of clinical needs.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is typically required along with strong writing skills.
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Healthcare Compliance Specialist
Average Annual Salary: N/AThis role ensures that healthcare organizations comply with regulations, making it a fitting choice for former nurses.
Job Requirements: Staying updated on healthcare regulations and compliance laws is essential.
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Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $103,000This role involves promoting pharmaceuticals to healthcare professionals, leveraging strong communication skills.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is generally required.
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Fitness Coach
Average Annual Salary: $39,000Fitness coaching allows former nurses to apply their knowledge of health and wellness in a supportive role.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree and relevant certifications are typically required.
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Nurse Ethicist
Average Yearly Salary: N/ANurse ethicists address ethical dilemmas in healthcare, requiring a deep understanding of medical ethics and patient rights.
Job Requirements: N/A
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Legal Nurse Consultant
Average Annual Salary: $64,000Legal nurse consultants assist attorneys by providing insights on medical issues in legal cases, making this a suitable role for nurses.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree and relevant certifications are typically required.
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Disease Prevention Nurse Specialist
Average Annual Salary: N/AThis role focuses on controlling the spread of diseases, a growing area of demand in today’s healthcare environment.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in public health or a related field is typically required.
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Informatics Nurse Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $72,000Informatics nurse specialists help optimize healthcare technology systems, bridging the gap between clinical practice and IT.
Job Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field is typically required.
How to Switch Careers as a Nurse
Transitioning to a new career as a nurse can be achieved by obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This four-year program expands your qualifications and opens doors to a variety of healthcare-related roles.
A BSN allows you to explore opportunities in:
- Legal and insurance sectors
- Educational institutions, both public and private
- Government agencies
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Research laboratories
Additionally, pursuing a BSN efficiently builds upon your existing associate degree in nursing, enhancing your career prospects. Some alternative nursing careers may require further education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a doctorate.
Alternative Jobs for Nurses FAQ
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What Are the Different Types of Nursing Degrees?
The different types of nursing degrees include:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctoral Nursing Degree
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What Are Some Careers for Former Nurses?
Careers such as lactation consultant, patient advocate, and pharmaceutical sales representative are excellent options for former nurses. These roles allow you to apply the skills and knowledge gained from your nursing experience in new and meaningful ways.
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Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
