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Job outlook for registered nurse prns in the United States
Registered nurse prn job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected registered nurse prn job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 195,400 new jobs for registered nurse prns are projected over the next decade.
Registered nurse prn salaries have increased 10% for registered nurse prns in the last 5 years.
There are over 1,982,242 registered nurse prns currently employed in the United States.
There are 636,925 active registered nurse prn job openings in the US.
The average registered nurse prn salary is $77,449.
Are registered nurse prn jobs in demand?
Registered Nurse PRN job and salary trends over time
Registered Nurse PRN jobs over time
Registered Nurse PRN job growth rate over time
| Year | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1,982,242 | 0.59% |
| 2020 | 1,942,914 | 0.58% |
| 2019 | 1,940,338 | 0.58% |
| 2018 | 1,920,698 | 0.58% |
| 2017 | 1,891,431 | 0.57% |
Average registered nurse prn salary over time
Registered Nurse PRN salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $77,449 | $37.24 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $75,362 | $36.23 | +2.2% |
| 2023 | $73,748 | $35.46 | +2.5% |
| 2022 | $71,969 | $34.60 | +2.3% |
| 2021 | $70,376 | $33.83 | +1.4% |
Registered Nurse PRN jobs by state
Most common states for registered nurse prns
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 1,675 | 125% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 942 | 125% |
| 3 | Vermont | 623,657 | 717 | 115% |
| 4 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 1,511 | 113% |
| 5 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 963 | 111% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 7,305 | 106% |
| 7 | Delaware | 961,939 | 1,016 | 106% |
| 8 | Alaska | 739,795 | 763 | 103% |
| 9 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 2,017 | 97% |
| 10 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 1,023 | 97% |
| 11 | Florida | 20,984,400 | 19,160 | 91% |
| 12 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 2,819 | 90% |
| 13 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 5,938 | 89% |
| 14 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 5,799 | 86% |
| 15 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 599 | 86% |
| 16 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 10,703 | 84% |
| 17 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 4,050 | 81% |
| 18 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 2,353 | 81% |
| 19 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 1,538 | 80% |
| 20 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 1,437 | 79% |
Most common cities for registered nurse prns
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mechanicsville | 50 | 138% | $87,212 |
| 2 | Tuckahoe | 58 | 129% | $87,072 |
| 3 | Salem | 16 | 63% | $84,775 |
| 4 | Reston | 19 | 33% | $87,365 |
| 5 | Richmond | 41 | 18% | $87,142 |
| 6 | Irving | 26 | 11% | $83,400 |
| 7 | Cleveland | 39 | 10% | $76,700 |
| 8 | Miami | 31 | 7% | $67,230 |
| 9 | Saint Louis | 21 | 7% | $70,398 |
| 10 | Plano | 16 | 6% | $83,275 |
| 11 | Memphis | 26 | 4% | $65,983 |
| 12 | Houston | 71 | 3% | $83,293 |
| 13 | Detroit | 21 | 3% | $88,317 |
| 14 | Atlanta | 16 | 3% | $69,923 |
| 15 | Dallas | 22 | 2% | $83,379 |
| 16 | Fort Worth | 19 | 2% | $83,515 |
| 17 | Jacksonville | 16 | 2% | $68,264 |
| 18 | San Antonio | 22 | 1% | $83,816 |
Registered Nurse PRN job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of registered nurse prn experts
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Pennsylvania State University - Harrisburg
California State University - Chico
Meharry Medical College
Molloy College
University of St. Francis
The University of Tampa
Harding University
Hartwick College
Shepherd University
George Fox University
Troy University
University of Wyoming
New York University
University of Maine
Francis Marion University
University of Southern Maine
Metropolitan State University of Denver
California State University - Dominguez Hills
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Dr. Cynthia Aurentz DNP, MSN, RN, CNE: Nursing is a dynamic field and there are many options. You can work in an Emergency Room, pediatrics, oncology, or even as a vascular access specialist (and many others). One of the great things about Nursing is that if you find you don't like a particular specialty, making a change is easy. Having your RN license qualifies you to work anywhere that an RN license is required so it may simply be a matter of transferring to a different area. Nurses are lifelong learners and there is much to learn! It is beneficial to have a solid foundation in basic medical-surgical concepts. Nursing needs great med-surg nurses and employers are looking for those who are willing to provide excellent direct patient care at the bedside. I also recommend that you learn about Nurse advocacy and become involved. As soon as you graduate, join your State and National Nurse Associations so that you have a voice in the issues that impact Nursing.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Cynthia Aurentz DNP, MSN, RN, CNE: Nurses are highly skilled and technology is growing at a rapid rate so comfort with a changing environment is important. Change is inevitable, so develop a mindset to be ready for it, otherwise you will suffer from frustration. Remote patient monitoring, telehealth, data analytics, and robotic systems are expected to grow so remote communication and assessment skills will be valuable. Interprofessional collaboration will also increase in importance as we coordinate care more effectively across different specialties and disciplines.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Dr. Cynthia Aurentz DNP, MSN, RN, CNE: There is a wide range in salaries across nursing roles so be the best you can, wherever you land. Pursue certifications in your specialty and gain experience so that you are prepared for mobility across varying roles. Advanced practice roles require more school and if that seems intriguing, research the different specialties. Nurse anesthesia is one of the highest paying nursing roles but it is also one of the most competitive. If that is a goal, get as much critical care experience as you can and make friends with the admission coordinators at prospective schools—let them know how important it is to you!
Krystyna Tabor
Assistant ProfessorNorthwestern State University of Louisiana
Allied Health And Medical Assisting Services
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Krystyna Tabor: This question is too hard to answer. The right question is "what doesn't a nurse do on a day-to-day basis?". People have an idea of what nurses do. However, only nurses know what they actually do and under what conditions they do it. The list is way too long.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Krystyna Tabor: The biggest thing that I think everyone entering the field of nursing should do on a daily basis is LEARN. Just because you graduated nursing school and passed the NCLEX does not mean that you know everything that you need to know in order to care for people.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Krystyna Tabor: Nursing has always been and will continue to be a good profession to enter. Nursing offers a flexibility that other professions do not offer. You can work at the bedside, in a clinic, or at home, etc. A nurse is not limited to a specific area. IE: nurses can change environments and specialties.
Dr. Robert Doerfler PhD, CRNP
Associate Teaching Professor of Nursing & NLN Certified Nurse EducatorPennsylvania State University - Harrisburg
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Dr. Robert Doerfler PhD, CRNP: The earliest approach for the individual new grad is to consider several offers; don't agree to the first job offer—no matter how flattering and rosy it seems. You may end up agreeing to it in a short time, but give yourself a chance to consider other offers as well. Think about secondary gains. One offer may be a little less than another, but money isn't everything. Secondary benefits may include employer reimbursement or payment for continuing education (required by many states for re-licensure), cross-training in or certification for a clinical specialty that pays better (and thus a job you can bid on later), a promotion scheme that supplies specific benchmarks to the new grad to aim for to hit higher salary targets, and benefits plans that cover more out of pocket costs for health care, dental and vision insurance, 401k, and similar non-salary compensation. You may make more money at one job, but end up paying out of pocket for high deductibles or non-covered care, than you might at a job that has a much better benefits package, even if the pay is a little less.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Robert Doerfler PhD, CRNP: I would strongly recommend that new graduates consider carefully the structure and duration of orientation or onboarding. Many hospitals are understaffed and new nurses are often being rushed through shortened orientations/residencies in an effort to relieve those staffing shortfalls. Duration and expected benchmarks for achievement should be available in writing as you consider your first job offer. If possible, ask to spend a few hours or shifts with the unit you are thinking about joining: Observe how the nurses treat each other and the ancillary staff. Do they seem mutually supportive? Is there a lot of gossipy talk? How does the morale seem? These social issues can become quite distressing to the new grad, and can result in dissatisfaction and premature departure due to emotional stress.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Dr. Robert Doerfler PhD, CRNP: Facility with telehealth will become more important, as health systems develop better follow up of discharged patients in order to reduce readmissions. Recognizing clinical deterioration and knowing when to speak up about it, and to whom, will become more important as health care systems become more consolidated, and as they continue to experience shortages of RNs (especially as more states pass minimum staffing laws). Developing skills in research ("evidence-based practice"), collaboration with colleagues in councils and committees, and unit-based advocacy will become more important as a counterweight to the prerogatives of non-clinical administrators seeking to boost efficiencies, cut costs, and control risk: Advocating for patients is important, but advocating for your unit's needs also advocates for your patients as a class of people with particular needs.
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Rich Burton DNP, RN, CMSRN: Often new graduates become hyper focused on working in a specialty unit for example ER, ICU, or NICU etc. I recommend instead focus on finding great hospitals that have extensive training programs and you want to work for. You will always have an opportunity to change positions within the hospital once you have a few year’s experience. A great hospital with adequate staffing and training will provide a much more supportive learning environment as you transition from student nurse to professional nurse.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rich Burton DNP, RN, CMSRN: Most hospitals have set rates for nurses but if you are looking to maximize your salary, I would say location location location. Certain areas of the country pay more than others, be willing to move to maximize your earning potential. Hospitals might also pay more for certifications or a bachelor’s degree as well.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Rich Burton DNP, RN, CMSRN: Its only a matter of time before artificial intelligence (AI) makes its way into healthcare and nursing. Keeping up to date on new technology and being flexible to adapt to the ever changing field of nursing is very important. Flexibility and embracing change is essential.
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.
ProfessorMeharry Medical College
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.: 2. Ability to learn about new inventions. Computer has changed the field tremendously and knowledge comes at a fast and furry pace so you need to keep up with new knowledge and be able to discriminate about what is useful and relevant from what is not useful though may be novella. Mountains of new information can easily lead to confusion. Learn to know the rules first, before you embark with the new fag in town.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.: 3. Do your homework and see what is consider reasonable for your position and demand the highest with the view of putting in your best. If you start low it is difficult with the system to getter better. But do not be greedy, the first five years in your profession is still part of the active learning process. Strife to be the best you can be.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Olugbemiga Ogunkua M.D., Ph.D.: 1. Learn as much as you can as if you are still a student. Respect your seniors and colleagues. Show humility so that you can learn from all around you. Those not having long list of degrees can teach you a lot. Nurses, technicians working aids and ancillary staffs have seen a lot in the practice and you can tap into their experience and be a better you professionally.
Normadeane Armstrong PhD, RN, ANP-BC
ProfessorMolloy College
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Normadeane Armstrong PhD, RN, ANP-BC: Starting a career in nursing can be both exciting and intimidating. Some general advice for new nursing graduates embarking on their professional journey may include: Never Stop Learning, Develop Strong Communication Skills, Cultivate Critical Thinking, Prioritize Self-Care, Build a Strong Support System.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Normadeane Armstrong PhD, RN, ANP-BC: Technological Proficiency, Cultural Competence, Focus on Preventive Care and Health Promotion, Interprofessional Collaboration.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Normadeane Armstrong PhD, RN, ANP-BC: Specialize, Further Education, Negotiate, Explore Alternative Settings, Stay Updated.
Dr. Maria Martinez DNP RN
Interim Associate Dean for Undergraduate NursingUniversity of St. Francis
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Dr. Maria Martinez DNP RN: Bedside clinical experience is important, getting certifications, soft skills to enhance your EI quotient, develop your leadership skills, going back for your MSN.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Maria Martinez DNP RN: Stay resilient and gain your experience for 2-3 years as an RN. When interviewing and applying for your first RN career opportunity, look at the mission and vision of the hospital, to see if it matches your work ethic values. Inquire and seek a good preceptor/mentor who will empower you to grow in your career. Stay humble and learn from the experts.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Dr. Maria Martinez DNP RN: Save and invest your earrings. Consider having 401K, 403b, Roth, Traditional IRAs. Look into credit unions, bonds, stocks. Be financially savvy and save your money.
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Dr. MaryAnn D'Alesandro DNP, MSN, RN, CNOR, NI-BC, CNE: The most important to skills to have and/or learn are critical thinking, trusting, and strengthening their gut intuition, and being adaptable to unpredictable situations and changing environments. The pandemic taught us that in many ways. Common sense and critical thinking are more important than you can imagine. But the most important skill is being okay being a life-long learner and understanding that no 2 days will be the same.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. MaryAnn D'Alesandro DNP, MSN, RN, CNOR, NI-BC, CNE: The most important advice is to keep in mind is that the first 1 to 2 years is still the learning phase of being an RN. Be kind and patient with yourself and be comfortable with asking questions and for help when you need it. Emulate the nurses that you admire and respect. Be a sponge when you can learn new skills and new concepts from your more experienced teammates. Be humble and be gracious. Enjoy it. Embrace the experiences and learn from them.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Dr. MaryAnn D'Alesandro DNP, MSN, RN, CNOR, NI-BC, CNE: As a graduate and new RN, the salaries are competitive in the general areas. If you choose to specialize such as the OR, ER, ICU etc., or if you choose night shifts and weekends opposed to day shift, you could see the rates increase by several dollars an hour. Keep in mind that if you do not get a position in the area that you most want, for example labor and delivery, getting in the door of the hospital that you want to work at is most important. Getting your foot in the door is the opportunity. Most hospitals hire and promote from within, so that when a position opens in the area you truly want to work, you are in a better position to obtain it than someone who is not already a committed employee.
Marcus Binns MSN-NE, RN
Assistant ProfessorHarding University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Marcus Binns MSN-NE, RN: With technologies like AI becoming more prominent, nursing is a field that will stand out because it requires human intervention to provide hands-on care, perform skills, and critically think. That being said, I think nurses will become increasingly exposed to AI decision-making tools being utilized in medicine. What I think will be most important is utilizing those tools to streamline your tasks and decision-making, while at the same time being aware that your human interventions are still vital to notice things the algorithm misses while also providing compassionate care.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Marcus Binns MSN-NE, RN: I would recommend they try to find their passion in nursing and get into it as quickly as they are able. You may not be able to start off on a specialty unit, but work on the steps needed to get there within a few years after starting off. If you try to practice nursing without passion, you can quickly experience feelings of burnout. If you work on a unit or with a population that you care deeply about, some days will *still* be hard but you will be encouraged to show up the next day and continue working with people you care about.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Marcus Binns MSN-NE, RN: Research before you interview on what normal pay is for your degree and type of nursing role you are wanting to be in. This varies by state and institution, but it will give you a guideline of what to expect. When they ask during the interview 'what is your expected salary?', you can then answer with a foundation in reality. If you are starting off with no experience, you can expect on the low-end of normal (around 25th percentile). Following that, look for ways to advance yourself in your role. This can include certifications, skills training, committee work at the institution, etc. Your best resources are clinical educators or your nurse manager on what additional training you can do that would benefit the environment you are in. These then stand out when you do your yearly reviews. Also, if you desire to make as much as possible, you need to also look into shift-differentials for your institution. Many hospitals will pay you extra on top of your salary if you come in to work nights, weekends, or extra shifts outside of your contracted shifts. I would caution against doing this excessively, however, because that will also increase your mental/physical fatigue from working in a draining environment. Value your downtime for your physical and mental health!
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Lorena Marra MS, FNP-C: The new nurse can maximize their salary potential by looking for facilities with a sign-on bonus. Many facilities offer a financial reward for a promise of employment for a short time. This serves not only the new nurse but also the facility. By providing a lucrative sign-on bonus, the facility can ensure that they will have a good nurse for a few years and this means their investment in training will not go by the wayside. The new nurse gets a large amount up-front to help with education costs or whatever they choose, and a guarantee of employment for that short time frame. It is a win-win.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Lorena Marra MS, FNP-C: For any graduate novice nurse, I would say to start your career in a facility that is comfortable for you. Perhaps it is somewhere that you were able to have good clinical experiences in, or perhaps a facility that you have been working in while you were in school. That familiarity is always helpful when you are getting started and taking on the new role of graduate nurse. It is also good to start in a facility with a nurse residency program. These programs will help the new nurse with skills that they have not been able to do in school. For example-starting intravenous lines or doing blood draws. Another tip would be to hold off on doing travel nurse experiences until you have more clinical work under your belt. When traveling, you need to be at the top of your skills, so take time to reach that pinnacle before heading off. The same can be said of starting graduate school. Some real-world clinical experience before starting NP school is incredibly helpful. Be patient with yourself as you get started in your new and exciting career.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Lorena Marra MS, FNP-C: The skills that will be more important as the field of nursing continues are those that will prepare the nurse for patients with higher acuity (they are sicker!). Nurses will have to continue to integrate knowledge from other sciences into nursing science-understanding chemistry, biology, psychology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, sociology, and others in order to make the best clinical decisions for the patient. Nurses will need to expand patient-centered care to focus on multiple factors, not just the specific health need, but psychological considerations as well as financial needs. Nursing should also look to continuing care beyond the usual space and incorporate ideas of community health in their care. Nurses will need to use research skills to help advance health care and improve health outcomes for all. Nurses will need to use advanced technology to help support efforts to improve patient safety and quality care outcomes. Nurses also need to continue to uphold the legal and ethical considerations that they have in the past.
Lisa Zerull PhD, RN-BC
Assistant Professor of NursingShepherd University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Lisa Zerull PhD, RN-BC: Excellent clinical judgment, Flexibility and resiliency, Positive attitudes, Positive change agents—don't be part of the problem—be part of the team to effect positive change
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Lisa Zerull PhD, RN-BC: As a new RN begins their nursing career my advice includes: 1. Shadow on the unit where you think you want to work and explore the unit culture, leadership and communications styles, and overall RN staff satisfaction 2. Choose wisely for your first RN position—too many nurses leave the field within the first year. 3. Recognize that nursing in hospitals requires mostly 12 hour day and night, weekend and holiday work requirements—pay your dues—you are needed. Then decide where is best fit for work/life balance. 4. Create realistic strategies for your own self care. 5. Explore job opportunities in hospitals providing a quality nurse residency program 6. Find a mentor (not your manager or supervisor) to guide and support you throughout your career 7. While you may pursue a specialized area such as emergency room, critical care, and labor and delivery, remember that 80% of all patients in hospitals are older adults age 60-80. Medical/surgical nursing IS a nursing specialty and provides a solid foundation of nursing care and skills to transition to ANY setting or specialty. 8. Be responsible and accountable for your actions including work attendance; positive conflict resolution and problem solving; being a change agent to enhance nursing practice or for positive change; and choose NOT to become part of a negative group of co-workers who complain about everything and don't work toward positive change.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Lisa Zerull PhD, RN-BC: 1. First year RN generally cannot negotiate base salary/hourly rates—these are set. Check out starting salaries and then sign on benefits for first year nurses. 2. I suggest becoming a CNA first (in high school is best) and work summers or PRN during nursing school—adds to your skill set and enhances nursing school learning 3. Explore summer nurse externships to gain experience.
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Kari Sandau MSN, RN, PCCN, CNE: Having good customer service and people skills will never go out of style. You can have all the knowledge and technical skills required to be a nurse, but if you don't know how to connect with people and care, you will be missing what we call the 'art' of nursing. I believe that technology will continue to become more integrated into healthcare systems, so it is important to have comfort with how we can use technology to improve care and patient outcomes. Healthcare is constantly changing, and nurses need to be innovative and adaptable.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kari Sandau MSN, RN, PCCN, CNE: Salaries in nursing vary wildly from state to state. Make sure you look at the cost of living alongside the pay scale. There are shift differentials for working nights, weekends, or on-call that can increase your overall income. I think it is important to make sure you are taking care of yourself and finding a balance between work and home. Chasing those shift differentials can contribute to burnout.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Kari Sandau MSN, RN, PCCN, CNE: Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your nursing preceptors will not expect you to know everything. Give yourself grace and know that it may take several months to a year to feel comfortable and confident in your new role. Look for new positions with RN new grad residency programs to help support you in this transition from student to nurse. Take time to reflect on the care you give and how you want to improve. Care for yourself. Make sure you take time each week to do something that brings you joy. Spending time with friends, playing games, hiking, crafting, or exercising are important self-care activities.
Kayla Jackson RN BSN
BSN Success CoachTroy University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Kayla Jackson RN BSN: Salary potential varies depending on location, specialty and experience but a few ways to maximize your salary potential are: Consider pursuing further education which can include certifications in your field or area of expertise, an advanced degree, or specialized training. Gain experience. Seek out unique opportunities for professional growth so you can build an exceptional resume. This can position you for higher paying roles. Negotiate strategically-just as we advocate for our patients, we must be an advocate for ourselves. Do your research and know the standards where you are located, but also highlight the skill set you are bringing to the table and articulate how valuable you will be to their organization. Explore different employment settings. Nurses have so many opportunities in different fields, so explore what is out there and base your decision on who offers the best salary and benefits.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kayla Jackson RN BSN: In the next 3-5 years, I believe nurses will need to be increasingly proficient with technology. As healthcare is becoming more and more digitized, it will be a crucial skill for nurses to learn and adapt to the technological advancements we will see with electronic health records, telehealth platforms and other advancing technology. In addition to being proficient with technology, nurses will need to become more culturally competent as our patient populations are growing more diverse. It will be imperative to understand and address the unique needs of individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Kayla Jackson RN BSN: The advice I would give to new graduates entering the field would be to cultivate resilience, as nursing is an emotionally and physically demanding profession. Develop coping skills, seek out help and support early, and prioritize self-care to help prevent burnout. I would also encourage you to stay adaptable and embrace life-long learning. Healthcare is a constantly evolving field with continuous advancements and changes in protocol. As nurses, we must stay flexible and adapt to these constant changes and keep an open mind for learning as well as new opportunities. Lastly, nursing is a collaborative field. Therefore, we must foster strong relationships with our colleagues and patients in order to be the best advocate we can be for the patients and provide the highest quality of care.
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS
Associate Dean, Associate ProfessorUniversity of Wyoming
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS: Continue to learn and grow. When opportunities for professional development arise, ask your managers to support you in gaining further knowledge and certifications. When you start in your first job, salary is important, but not as important as having an environment that will support you in your growth and development as a RN. If you have completed any micro-credentials, be sure to highlight those in the application process. For example, if you have completed the IHI Open School Basic Certificate in Quality and Safety, note that in your certifications on your resume. The increased knowledge and certifications may lead to some pay increases.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS: In nursing, the ability to think critically within the clinical context, communication, and assessment skills will continue to be very important. You, as the nurse, are with the patient for more hours than any other provider. Your ability to look at the patient combined with your assessment, their current issues, their lab values, and clinical presentation will be the difference in their outcome. Once you put your pieces together, your ability to clearly communicate your findings with the providers will advocate for the patient and their care.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Karen Gorton PhD, RN, FNP, MS: As a recently graduated nurse who has passed NCLEX-RN, I would encourage you to be sure to learn all that you can from your mentors and preceptors who are helping you orient to your new role/position. They have so much knowledge that can be very helpful to your continued growth as a RN. Be sure to demonstrate informed inquiry – ask them questions that demonstrate your understanding of the context, but also your desire to learn more. Find a new graduate residency program to start your employment as a RN in. This program will provide you support for your first 9-12 months of working as a nurse.
Dr. Kelseanne Breder PhD, PMHNP, GERO-BC
Clinical Assistant ProfessorNew York University
Health Professions And Related Clinical Sciences
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Dr. Kelseanne Breder PhD, PMHNP, GERO-BC: Trauma-informed care, narrative interview/qualitative assessment skills, informatics.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Kelseanne Breder PhD, PMHNP, GERO-BC: Obtain certifications through the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC), specialize in underserved populations, know your value.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Dr. Kelseanne Breder PhD, PMHNP, GERO-BC: Seek job opportunities that offer you ample supervision. Supervision is critical to furthering your education and refining on-the-job expertise in the specific practice setting where you have chosen to work.
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Jordan Porter DNP, APRN, FNP-BC: In this field, where the environment is constantly changing and the stakes are always high, it's critical for new nurses to prioritize emotional agility. What I mean by that is having the courage to face tough emotions, being curious about them rather than fearful, and treating yourself with compassion as you work through them. This isn't just about handling stress; it's about aligning these experiences with your core values and purpose. For example, Adam Grant in his book 'Hidden Potential' really hits the nail on the head. He talks about becoming a discomfort seeker, a relentless learner, and embracing imperfections along the way. These aren't just tips; they're necessary traits to navigate the complexities of healthcare with resilience and adaptability. I believe mastering this kind of emotional agility is as crucial as any clinical skill a nurse learns.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jordan Porter DNP, APRN, FNP-BC: In nursing, maximizing your salary isn't just about climbing the traditional ladder. It’s crucial to broaden your perspective and think innovatively. Advanced certifications and education are key—they don’t just boost your expertise, they open doors to higher-paying opportunities that many might not consider, like roles in healthcare technology or business. Mastering negotiation is also essential. It’s about articulating your unique value compellingly, telling your story in a way that not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates how you can meet the needs of an organization in a mutually beneficial way. But let's not overlook the non-traditional paths. For instance, travel nursing can offer not just adventure but also lucrative contracts, especially in high-demand areas. And stepping into entrepreneurial roles within healthcare can tap into new revenue streams that go beyond hourly wages. Yet, while exploring these avenues, it’s important to remember the bigger picture. A healthy work environment where you feel genuinely supported and valued is priceless. It’s about finding a balance where you are not just well-compensated but where you also belong. Leaders who invest in your growth, a culture that respects your work-life balance, and a role that allows you to maintain your professional integrity—all these factors contribute to long-term satisfaction and well-being. After all, the ultimate goal isn’t just to earn more, but to build a fulfilling career that sustains you physically, emotionally, and mentally over the long haul. In the grand scheme of things, making a bit less in exchange for a life well-lived is not a compromise; it’s a strategic choice for lasting happiness and impact.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Jordan Porter DNP, APRN, FNP-BC: Looking ahead in the field of nursing, one significant trend I foresee is the ever-increasing integration of artificial intelligence into healthcare. Nurses have long been recognized as among the most trusted and ethical professionals nationwide, with our code of ethics considered one of the most rigorous globally. This ethical foundation positions us uniquely to lead in the ethical application of generative AI in healthcare. We shouldn't view AI as a replacement for nursing intelligence but as a tool to augment it. It’s crucial that we maintain a human-centered approach in deploying AI technologies, ensuring they don’t perpetuate health inequities but rather promote health equity. We need to have a seat at the table to ensure that these technologies are used ethically and responsibly. This means being involved in creating AI systems that are not only effective but also accountable and aligned with our commitment to caring and fairness. So, in the next three to five years, I believe developing expertise in AI and ethics will be essential for nurses. We'll need to be vigilant and proactive in shaping how these technologies are implemented to truly support and enhance patient care without compromising our ethical standards.
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN
ProfessorFrancis Marion University
Communication Disorders Sciences And Services
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN: You can maximize your salary potential by negotiating. Bring your skills, experience, and never sell yourself short. This is the time to ensure the job is a right fit and that you are considering all the potential benefits and opportunities.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN: The skills that will be vital in the next 3-5 years will be around technology. Utilization of telehealth will become more prevalent, and the ongoing development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will allow better algorithms and evidence-based treatment options for patients and providers.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Deborah Hopla DNP, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN: The general advice I would give to a nursing graduate student as they begin their career in nursing is to understand every patient you treat is someone’s Mom, Dad, Aunt, Uncle, Brother, Sister, Child. Treat patients like they are your family member. Always keep up with the latest evidence and treatment options.
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE
Associate Professor of NursingUniversity of Southern Maine
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE: Skills needed in the future will more than likely involve the use of technology. AI and other technologies are rapidly being developed and implemented into the healthcare system.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE: Salary depends upon experience and location. As a new grade you may have the opportunity to ask if there is a set salary or a range. Location is also important as many rural organizations do not have the resources as larger facilities have. Working in large urban areas organizations try to stay competitive with other organizations including salaries.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Dr. Debra Gillespie PhD, RN, CNE: ask questions and don't put too much pressure upon yourself. Be eager to learn new things, and stay on top of new initiatives in nursing and healthcare. Become a lifelong learner.
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Dr. Cindy Krentz DNP, RN, ACUE: Nursing is undoubtedly a challenging profession. The emotional toll of caring for patients, especially when outcomes aren't favorable, can be heavy. The physical demands, from lifting patients to long shifts on nurses’ feet, add another layer of difficulty. Workplace violence and dealing with rude or demanding patients further compound these challenges. Moreover, the feeling of being under-appreciated can wear on nurses, especially considering the critical role they play in healthcare. Improving nurse-to-patient ratios and addressing the root causes of workplace stress are essential steps toward ensuring both nurses and patients receive the care they deserve.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Cindy Krentz DNP, RN, ACUE: Entering the nursing profession at present offers numerous advantages. Firstly, there's a widespread shortage of nurses nationwide, making nursing a highly sought-after career. With the aging population and retiring nurses, there's a pressing need for new nurses to fill these vacancies. Additionally, nursing offers diverse career paths, allowing individuals to transition between different specialties if desired. Moreover, the field boasts high earning potential, job stability, and flexibility in scheduling.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Dr. Cindy Krentz DNP, RN, ACUE: Nursing encompasses a wide range of specialties, from forensic and flight nursing to hospice care, hospital nursing, research, and public health nursing, among others. Regardless of the specific role, the fundamental task common to all nurses is assessment. This involves evaluating patients' physical, mental, and overall well-being. Physically, nurses conduct examinations, monitor vital signs, assess pain levels, and consider the broader context to provide comprehensive reports to healthcare providers. Given that nurses are present round-the-clock in hospitals, they play a crucial role in relaying their assessments to providers, who typically visit once or twice a day.
Cathy Andrade DNP, MSN, RN
Assistant ProfessorCalifornia State University - Dominguez Hills
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What general advice would you give to an Registered Nurse PRN?
Cathy Andrade DNP, MSN, RN: It seems we are in a phase in healthcare where the use of technology is growing at a rapid pace. Having an open mind to accept and continue to build skills using new technologies will continue to be important factors for the future of nursing practice.
What Registered Nurse PRN skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Cathy Andrade DNP, MSN, RN: My advice to Registered Nurses entering the workforce is to be open to opportunities that may not be their first choice. This can mean a nursing position in a department or a shift they may not have considered but may lead to future opportunities for a more desirable shift, or an opportunity in their preferred specialty.
What will help Registered Nurse PRNs increase their earning potential?
Cathy Andrade DNP, MSN, RN: Nurses who have a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree often find there are more opportunities for employment for positions with higher salaries. An example of this is the Magnet designation for hospitals, which requires that at least 80% of their nursing positions be filled by BSN prepared RNs. These positions generally offer higher salaries than positions in sub-acute care settings and in home health.