Institute for Career Research

Careers in Geriatric Nursing Institute for Career Research

GERIATRIC NURSES SPECIALIZE IN CARING for elderly adults. As most people get older, their bodies and minds start to slow down and wear out. Their immune systems weaken along with their bones and they become more vulnerable to disease and accidents. Because of this, elderly people typically need more medical care than younger people. Most of their care is provided by geriatric nurses, which makes these professionals highly valued by those people who depend on them. In addition to preventing health emergencies, geriatric nurses have a huge impact on the quality of life for both patients and their families. Caring for older adults is both challenging and rewarding. The work requires knowledge in all areas of healthcare, and a willingness to keep up with the expanding scientific base for geriatric medicine. There is much we do not yet know about aging, but we do know that it is complex, involving biological, psychological, and social changes. We also know that elderly individuals are different than other adults. They need special care, since a minor health problem like the flu or a fall can spin out of control quickly. Changes in their metabolism can mean they respond differently to medications and other treatments. Geriatric nurses are first trained to perform traditional nursing duties. Before getting into geriatrics, they must earn a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN), which takes four years. During that time, they can learn about geriatric care in the classroom, but most of what they need to know will come from hands-on experience. After getting at least 200 hours of that experience, they can sit for an exam to become certified in the specialty of geriatrics. The job outlook for trained geriatric nurses is excellent and getting better every day. The US is experiencing a so-called "Silver Tsunami" as the population ages faster than any other time in history. The fastest-growing age group is over 80, and with Baby Boomers now entering their 60s, the demand for geriatric care is outpacing the supply of trained professionals. This is great news for aspiring geriatric nurses. Consider that people who are 65 or older account for one-half of all hospital admissions, yet just one percent of registered nurses and only three percent of advanced practice registered nurses are certified in geriatrics. There is definitely a demand for more professionals in this healthcare specialty! Opportunities are everywhere because people everywhere get older. Geriatric nurses will find that jobs are plentiful in long-term care facilities (nursing homes), assisted living facilities, outpatient clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, senior care centers, retirement centers, and hospice settings. There are also home healthcare agencies that arrange for nursing care in elderly people's homes. Geriatric nurses enjoy good pay and flexibility. They have the choice of working for a single employer or rotating through different settings assigned by an agency. For the nurse who likes to be on the move, traveling nurses are in demand. It is a great way to see the country and get paid considerably more than a staff nurse.