Men who are interested in the health sciences and enjoy interacting with people should consider a career as a registered nurse. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for registered nurses is expected to grow 26% faster than the average for all occupations through 2020. A nursing degree takes as little as two years and may be obtained by attending a university or accredited nursing school. In the year 2010, the median annual salary was $64,690, as stated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
About 62% of registered nurses work in hospitals, as stated by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, but this setting obviously isn’t the only option. There are nursing jobs in the military, doctor’s offices, nursing homes and schools. Nurses are also employed by home health facilities, correctional institutions and summer camps.
Nurses provide emotional support for patients and their families. They coordinate care and are instrumental in educating patients and others about their health problems, the benefits of preventative care and living a healthy lifestyle. The rewards are numerous.
As indicated by the United States Census Bureau in 2011, only nine% of nurses were male. This number has more than tripled since 1970. The percentages are likely to increase each year as it is a fulfilling and well-paying career not only for women, but for men as well.
