General Medicine Nurse
The field of general medicine is a broad term for all parts of medicine with the exception of surgery or cardiothoracic medicine. The general medicine nurse is usually considered a float nurse who will work in virtually any area of the hospital that needs assistance or units that are short-staffed. This type of job does not require a specialty or any additional training after nursing school. In fact, the only requirement to be qualified for the job of the general medicine or float nurse is to have at least a two-year associate of science degree in nursing.
Departments where a general medicine nurse may work
The general medicine nurse will enjoy the benefits of working in different departments and getting to deal with different elements of the medical field on a daily basis. One day they may work in the nursery of a maternity wing and the next day they may work in the telemetry unit where patients are sick. The only departments that the float nurse may not be qualified to work in are the cardio and thoracic units as well as the surgical unit. The main duties of a nurse in general medicine is to monitor patients’ vital signs and symptoms as well as routinely assess the patients’ conditions. Additionally, wound care and medication administration are other key elements to this type of job in the nursing profession.
Associate of science degree in nursing
The associate of science degree in nursing (ASN) is the required degree to become a nurse. In fact, many nursing students will get into the field of general medicine as soon as they graduate since this is the entry-level position in the nursing industry. This position gives new nurses experience in all different departments instead of just one specialty. The ASN degree takes an average student about two years to complete; however, many online colleges offer accelerated nursing programs that allow students to earn the degree in about 18 months. Should a student decide they want to further their education in the future, this degree can also be transferred into the bachelor’s degree program.
The general medicine nurse will enjoy the benefits of working with patients in all parts of the hospital. This position allows them to gain knowledge and experience in all specialties and provides them with additional qualifications that will help achieve additional success. This position is the typical entry-level position although many who start out there will stay with the position since it is flexible and exciting.
Popular Schools and Recommended Degrees
Kaplan University
It takes a dedicated educational institution to stand beside you throughout your career. Whether you are already a nurse or have just made the decision to become one, Kaplan University has the people, programs, and professional affiliations to help you pursue your educational and career goals. Kaplan's nursing degree and certificate programs are taught by practicing professionals who are dedicated to helping you prepare for real-world challenges.
Liberty University Online
Liberty University's Department of Nursing is designed to provide individuals with a broad educational background, which builds upon liberal arts, behavioral and social sciences as well as nursing. The curriculum for the nursing program at Liberty University is directly derived from the stated purpose, philosophy, objectives and organizing framework of the Department of Nursing which is based on Patricia Benner?s nursing theory and the nursing process. It provides a framework for practice and a conceptual approach to the nursing curriculum.
CTU Online
As the largest group in the US healthcare workforce, nurses are challenged to make a significant difference in the health outcomes of individuals and populations. The RN to BSN degree completion program at Colorado Technical University is designed to prepare nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to expand their practice options for a variety of clinical and administrative leadership activities and to manage change in an increasingly complex and diverse environment.
