nurse sitting and bonding with her senior patient

Geriatric Nursing

What You Need to Know About Geriatric Nursing

Geriatric nurses provide care for elderly patients in all aspects of their daily routine, including administering medications, assisting in bathing and dressing, keeping a schedule, helping with meals, etc. These specialty nurses also work with their patients’ families in coping with ailments that progress with age and educating them on the patient’s condition.

Preparation Path

Attain a BSN

Pass the NCLEX and become an RN

Earn GNC certification

Typical Tasks

  • Treating elderly patients’ chronic and acute conditions
  • Assisting in the rehabilitation of patients after injury or surgery
  • Performing routine check-ups and screenings
  • Maintaining patients’ daily schedules and assisting with routine tasks
  • Administering medication and pain management
  • Communicating with patients’ families

Employment Settings

  • Nursing homes
  • Hospice facilities
  • Home health care services
  • Rehabilitation facilities
  • Hospitals
  • Long-term care facilities

Annual Salary Range

$66,274 – $84,610

Certification

RN, Gerontological Nursing Certification (GNC)

Education Requirements

BSN

Ready to begin your journey to becoming a geriatric nurse?