For those who are looking for a nursing job, this article will give you a complete guide to nursing jobs in Phoenix, AZ.

What educational background do you need to land a job in Phoenix?

To be accepted into any nursing degree or diploma program, you will be required to have a high school diploma or a GED. It is helpful to have a head start on subjects such as biology, algebra, chemistry and geometry when considering a nursing degree.

You can do this job with no degree as long as you have the right certifications, but you might find that you are locked into entry-level positions until you gain more knowledge. With a bachelor’s degree, you will have the ability to move up to more advanced positions in the field. Nurses with a graduate degree will have access to an increased salary, opportunities for raises, online degree courses and continued education.

All nurses are required to earn a state-approved license by taking the National Council Licensure Examination offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. If you wish to become a licensed practical nurse, you need to take the NCLEXPN test. Registered nurses would need to pass the NCLEX-RN test to receive their licenses.

If you have a PhD or a DNP in nursing, you can perform research, conduct studies, become an educator and manage other nurses and nursing staff. With a PhD, you can work at public health offices, general medical and surgical hospitals and research facilities and even start your own independent practice. Continuing education is necessary if you intend to move up in your career and have more opportunities. Schools such as the Gateway Community College can help provide continuing education in the field.

How can I land a nursing job in Phoenix?

Although there have been grim predictions made about the lack of nursing jobs in the state of Arizona, more recent information predicts an increase and even a surplus of nursing jobs on the horizon. Arizona holds 10th place for elderly resident population in the United States. By 2030, a demand for nearly 100,000 registered nurses is expected.

In order to get a job as a nurse in Phoenix, it’s important to stay on top of your licensing and education. The Arizona State Board of Nursing is responsible for regulating and issuing all licenses and educational programs for nurses and ensures that all persons holding a license are practicing legally. A continued education and quality referrals will both play a tremendous part in landing a nursing job in Phoenix.

When it comes to creating your resume, be sure to include all of your certifications. Try and balance highlighting your skillset with highlighting your achievements, as both are important to potential employers. Create a cover letter that sets you apart and tells the employer why you are a good fit for the job.

When interviewing for a job, whether in-person or via phone, it is important to highlight your experience working with different kinds of patients and the level of care you provided. Questions will often be focused on your personal experiences in the field.

What are common jobs in this area?

Entry-level nurses will have different duties that will depend on where they work and how experienced they are. Caring for and interacting with patients will take up a good portion of the entry-level nurse’s day. In many cases, the nurse will be the patient’s first point of contact. Other duties may include diagnostic testing, chart upkeep, record maintenance and providing aftercare/discharge instructions after the doctor has seen the patient.

Mid-level nurses will have increased responsibility that can include providing certain treatments, maintaining stock and inventory, handling prescriptions, ensuring that regulations and rules related to medical record keeping are followed and assisting the doctor with evaluating patients.

A senior nurse will have successfully passed through both entry- and mid-level nursing jobs and is ready to work alone. Senior nurses can direct and supervise LPNs and CNAs, discuss treatment options with pharmacists and physicians, provide immediate care in medical emergencies and prescribe medications and treatment plans. At the highest level, a nurse will be working in medical administration and other medical management positions.

What are the biggest industries for this field in Phoenix?

Job proliferation nationwide is expected to rise 15 percent between now and 2026 in the U.S. As this guide to nursing jobs in Phoenix, AZ, will demonstrate, there are various job options. These options include caretakers for the elderly, hospice nurse practitioners, cardiovascular care registered nurses and emergency room travel nurses.

What kind of shifts can I work in this field in Phoenix?

All shifts are available for this field of work, from full-time to temporary. As you advance in your nursing career, you may find that you have the ability to work longer hours for more pay. As an entry-level nurse, expect to be given the less-popular hours such as nights and weekend shifts. As you progress, you will be able to take advantage of other shifts and may even be able to tailor your schedule to your personal preferences.

External resources

External resources can provide you with additional information on nursing jobs and how to obtain one. Major publications include Nurse Journal.org, American Nurse Today, Journal of Advanced Nursing and the International Journal of Nursing. Nursing unions include National Nurses United.

For those who wish to join professional groups, consider the American Nurses Association and Sigma Nursing. The latter provides a list of global resources you can connect with.

Top university programs include Johns Hopkins University (graduate), Duke University (graduate), Simmons University (undergraduate) and Capella University (undergraduate). Online undergraduate programs are also available in certain nursing fields.