Dermatology Nurse

Most often, when hearing the term "nurse" I envision a person working in a hospital setting partaking in obtaining a patients vitals and basic care.  However; being someone who is a freak about their skin and making sure it remains relatively clear and 'freckle-free', dermatology has been a considered occupation of mine.  Little did I know I could do both; become a nurse and still work as a dermatology nurse!

Source: http://www.nsna.org/portals/0/Skins/NSNA/images/DNA-logo-RGB.jpg

What do these types of nurses do?

A dermatology nurse (DNC) deals particularly with the skin.  Responsibilities range from acne to skin diseases or injuries.  Some deal with post surgery treatments from cancer or plastics. In other cases, a dermatology nurse may deal with burn patients, screen for skin cancers, or simply conduct research in a specific area.

How do you become a dermatology nurse?

There are a multitude of ways to obtain this career academically.  Including:

-LPN Certification (licensed practical nurse)

-Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

-Pass NCLEX examination

-Minimal work of at least 2 years (approximately 2,000 hours in dermatology)

-Pass Dermatology Certification Exam

What different work environments are available?

-Private practice workplaces

-Hospital burn wards (specialization in treatment and recovery of patients with severe burns)

-Plastic surgery offices

According to the statistics found in the website used for this research, there is a rising demand for dermatology nurses!  This career can be good for those interested or experiencing skin problems, mild or severe, and love to help others.

-Samantha B

Sources: http://www.discovernursing.com/specialty/dermatology-nurse#.VjZbw3g8Ou5

"Dermatology Nurse." Dermatology Nurse|DiscoverNursing.com. Discover Nursing, 10 Jan. 2014.

      Web. 01 Nov. 2015.