Nurses

Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor's degree in nursing, an associate degree in nursing or a diploma from a nursing program. Registered nurses shouldn't be confused with licensed practical nurses. Licensed practical nurses undergo less training (generally a one-year nursing program) and work under the direction of doctors and registered nurses.

Nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives and nurse anesthetists, also referred to as advanced practice registered nurses, must earn at least a master's degree.

Credentials for nurses:

• R.N.: Registered nurse
• N.P.: Nurse practitioner
• A.P.N.P.: Advanced practice nurse practitioner (also abbreviated as A.P.N.)
• A.P.R.N.: Advanced practice registered nurse (also abbreviated as A.P.R.)
• C.N.M.: Certified nurse-midwife
• C.N.P.: Certified nurse practitioner (also abbreviated as N.P.-C. or N.P.B.C.)
• C.R.N.A.: Certified registered nurse anesthetist
• D.N.P.: Doctor of nursing practice
• L.P.N.: Licensed practical nurse