Nursing is both well-respected and rewardable career. Currently, the United States has over three million registered nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for registered nurses is $68,450 and is expected to increase 16 percent, which is much higher compared to other job occupations. However, although compensation is usually not the only reason for people to aspire to become nurses, there are a few options for registered nurses to make extra money in their profession.
Finish Your BSN Degree
Studies by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing found that nearly 79 percent of nurse employers hired nurses with a bachelor?s of science in nursing degree than other entry-level nurses. Additionally, there are also more advancement opportunities for nurses who completed their BSN degree.
Get Experience in Nursing Specialties
You can pick a nursing specialty that will increase your skill set, meaning more money making opportunities down the road. Certified nurses with specialties are widely known to be top earners in their field. Be sure to renew your current certifications as well. You can even take advantage of an online acls renewal and renew your certifications in the comfort of your home.
Volunteer to Work Overtime Shifts
Working overtime means you?ll get paid more for the time your volunteer, but also shows high management that you can be a real team player. However, it?s important to set reasonable work limits to prevent fatigue on the job.
Achieve an Advanced Nursing Degree
Earning a nursing graduate degree is one of the securest ways to make extra money as a nurse. This way, you can work as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or a nurse manager. However, keep in mind that an APRN requires a master?s degree, but you can lead your own practice as a nurse practitioner, certified nurse, midwife, or certified registered nurse anesthetist. Certified registered nurse anesthetist hold the highest average salary among advanced practice registered nurses according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can always choose other career choices, but most require a doctoral degree or other steps in the healthcare administration ladder.
Side Gigs
When you have a specialized skill in nursing, it can be easy to find interesting side work. You can even get creative with it and have a little fun at the same time. Here are a few fun side gigs that you can consider exploring:
- On your days off, work per diem shifts at your current workplace
- Work as a camp nurse on weekends and vacation breaks.
- Teach patient education classes
- Tutor nursing students in person or online.
- Offer home care to patients who cannot leave their homes
- Teach patients how to use their own medical equipment in the home
- Work at special clinics or doctor?s offices and give flu shots
- Contribute content to nursing blogs and publications
These are just a few of the many ways you can use your skills creatively to make some more income.
Travel Nurse
You can also boost your income by working as a travel nurse. If you are experienced in your specialty, you can earn a great income by doing this. Around the world, people are looking for qualified nurses to work. This is typically temporary works, but you can make a considerable income and have your expenses covered in the meantime. This is a great opportunity for those who have always wanted to travel around the world. Plus, you can make a bit of money at the same time. There are so many ways that you can increase your income with your nursing skills. No longer will you need to worry about just barely scraping by. By learning new skills, getting new certifications, searching for more work opportunities, and more, you can ensure that you are making the money you need.