Opportunities for RNs in the area of Nutrition

[Asklepios]

I just finished my second semester of nursing school, and during the semester I also took a required Nutrition course. A funny thing happened whilst taking the course - I really liked it!

I was wondering what career opportunities may be available for me in the field of Nutrition once I become an RN. I am currently working as a nursing assistant on a med/surg floor and I know that is not the area I want to be a nurse in. I really want to find a specialty that interests me so I can concentrate on that as I get closer to being an RN. Besides Nutrition, I really like the idea of going into Psychiatric nursing.

Thanks in advance for any info provided. :nuke:

[Daye]

there are a lot of opportunities available in the area of nutrition. however you will need the actual degree ld/rd otherwise your qualifications of rn will not actually be enough in most cases. for instance there is a big demand for ld/rd to work with patients who are going through dialysis.

[bluerose85]

I would like to know more information about this too.

[L&Dnurse2Be]

In Texas, the LD/RD is a totally different degree route. It requires a BS in Nutrition, a Masters in Nutrition, and a year long internship following with a test for licensure. I have a degree in Nutrition and could not get into the program to become a RD because of the competition. It is very difficult, just like nursing school. As an RN you can work with breastfeeding moms, patients with Diabetes, etc without a RD/LD. Good luck in whatever you choose. I'm still trying to make it to nursing school...