For many people, the word "nurse" conjures up the iconic image of a smiling woman in white, with a little hat and sensible shoes. The reality of today is that, aside from the shoes, nursing is now an art that reaches every medical specialty imaginable.

Nurses treat patients, advise and support family members, administer medications, and educate patients. Nurses can be tasked with administering tests, recording patient symptoms and medical history, and operate medical devices. There are nearly 2.6 million registered nurses (RNs) in the United States today. And although the majority of nurses work in hospitals, nursing positions can be found in nursing homes, clinics, schools, doctor's offices, home health care agencies, and more.

Nurses also can specialize in many different medical areas, from working in oncology helping with cancer treatment to occupational health working to helping patients prevent injuries. Some major areas of specialty include:

1. Home health care
2. Pediatrics
3. Oncology
4. Crucial care
5. Emergency/trauma
6. Hospice
7. Psychiatrics
8. Addiction
9. Cardiovascular
10. Diabetes

In addition, nurses can specialize in the treatment of a body system or organ such as urology, dermatology, gynecology, gastroenterology or orthopedic nurses.

Most nurses work in an environment where they are part of a team providing care for patients. Some nurses will choose to pursue higher education to become an advanced practice nurse, working independently or with a physician, such as nurse-midwives or nurse practitioners.

No matter what interests you in the medical field, there is a nursing specialty and position for you. There is an estimated half a million new RN jobs opening up in the U.S. over the next few years, making nursing a sustainable and rewarding career choice!