Bedside Burnout? Consider One of These Unique Specialties

[Brittany Brewer]

Registered nurses are experiencing burnout at an alarming rate. According to the American Hospital Association, 62% of nurses reported burnout-related symptoms in 2020. Burnout, fatigue, and moral distress increased dramatically during the Covid 19 pandemic. The National Council for State Boards of Nursing released a report in April 2023 that indicates an estimated one-fifth of nurses plan to leave the profession in the next five years. Are you one of the nurses considering leaving the bedside? If so, maybe one of these unconventional nursing paths may be right for you! All the specialties listed below require an active nursing license.  

Cruise Ship Nurse An onboard medical team is essential to any cruise line. Nurses on these teams must be able to manage an array of conditions. As resources on the ship are limited, these RNs must have strong triage and clinical skills. Even critically ill patients must remain on board until evacuation to another facility can be arranged. Cruise ship nurses must be able to manage many different diseases ranging from basic wound care and IV therapies to cardiac disease and sepsis. Patient populations range from pediatric to geriatric and include both guests and crew.  

Disney Nurse While on the job at the happiest place on earth, nurses must possess basic triage and first aid skills. Disney nurses manage illnesses for both guests and staff members in theme parks and at resort hotels. Generally, this role includes providing first aid for minor injuries; heat-related illnesses are also common. In case of cardiac or other emergency situations, nurses must be able to provide medical support until first responders arrive. RNs are also responsible for occupational health related needs for staff members. Other amusement parks also employ RNs for their medical centers.  

Forensic Nurse A forensic nurse works with victims of violent crimes. This can include victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, abuse/neglect, trauma, and more. Responsibilities include compiling evidence and providing court testimony. Forensic nurses must be compassionate and empathetic as they are the first line of support for victims and families during these traumatic experiences.  

IV Hydration Nurse In this growing field, nurses provide IV infusions for hydration purposes. This can include hydration after/during an illness (even a hangover!) and infusions with various vitamins added for immune support, energy, and more. Infusions can be done in an office setting or as house calls. These RNs must be proficient in the insertion of intravenous lines.  

Medical Cannabis Nurse Another quickly emerging field is cannabis nursing. As more research is done and more states legalize medicinal cannabis, the need for cannabis nurses expands. These nurses must have a deep knowledge of the different cannabis compounds and their mechanism of action. In addition to being experts on the uses and mechanisms of action, cannabis RNs must also be well-versed in the legal aspects of medicinal cannabis in their state. Collaborating closely with prescribing providers is required. They also provide evidence-based education to patients and the community.  

Medical Examiner Nurse This field is a branch of forensic nursing, but it is focused on working with the deceased. As with other forensic nursing positions, nurses in this specialty must be able to collaborate well with law enforcement and legal teams. Responsibilities here would include processing crime scene evidence, obtaining blood and tissue samples, and assisting with autopsies. Meticulous work and documentation skills are necessary. Nurses must also have good interpersonal skills to work with victims' families.  

Nurse writer Nurse writers usually work in freelance positions. Nurses are uniquely positioned to author informational articles, papers, and website copy. Having firsthand experience in illness, disease prevention, and procedures, these nurses are poised to blend the world of healthcare with the world of writing. They can use their bedside expertise to create accurate educational content for consumers.  

Oil Field Nurse Oil fields in all regions employ registered nurses. One of the most unique locations for this field of work is an offshore oil rig. Nurses working in these locations must be in excellent physical condition as the working conditions offshore can be both arduous and hazardous. Tasks would include managing occupational health needs and providing triage and first aid to team members. These nurses have a great deal of autonomy; therefore, an excellent clinical skill set and strong critical thinking skills are required.  

One of the most advantageous elements of nursing is the wide variety of available roles. This gives nurses incredible flexibility, with positions attainable in multiple different fields. Many unique opportunities offer positions away from the traditional hospital bedside.