RN case managers guide patients through the continuum of health care. This starts as soon after admission to a health care facility as possible and continues until the health issue has resolved or patient health has been optimized. Nurses are uniquely suited to this specialty area. Case managers use the skills all RNs use in their practice: assessment, planning, care coordination, implementation, evaluation and advocacy. All members of the healthcare team involved in the patient’s care and the patient’s family are included in care planning strategies. RN case managers eliminate duplication of tests and services as they are keeping track of the entire picture of the patient’s care. They can reduce unnecessary wait times for treatments and make sure patients keep appointments for follow-up. Keeping the family involved in the care and evaluation helps the RN case manager understand any dynamics that may impede progress. In addition, the RN case manager will notify the physician of any untoward changes in the condition of the patient. This allows for rapid changes needed to keep the patient on track for the best outcome. All of these strategies save money and increase the wellbeing of the patient. Use these tips about registered nurse case management to learn the educational and training requirements.
Here’s how to become an RN case manager.
- Obtain a degree in nursing. To become a nurse, you actually have two degree options from which to choose. The first is the traditional four year bachelor’s degree nursing program offered by many colleges and universities. This program is the recommended option, especially if you are planning to earn a master’s degree in the field. The second option is to get a two year associate’s degree in nursing science. This two year program is great for people with minimal financial resources to get the necessary education and training in the field of nursing. Most community colleges and specialty nursing schools offer this program. You can even earn your RN nursing degree online. Most colleges offer an associate-to-bachelor’s program. Some offer associate-to-master’s programs. Getting a two year degree will not stop you from going on for a master’s degree; it just takes a little longer. The good news is you can work your way through school and have less debt in the end.
- Take the NCLEX-RN. Once you complete your nursing program, your next step is to become a registered nurse. Review classes are available to help study for the exam. Once you pass your exam you will be licensed in your state to practice nursing. Check with your state to see how often the license needs to be renewed. Some states also require a certain number of continuing education credits for renewal. It is very important to stay current on your particular licensing requirements.
- Enroll in a nurse case management program. A Master of Science in case management is available at several universities. Some even offer their master’s program online. This degree takes at least one year of full-time study, although some programs take two years to complete.
- Update your credentials. Once you complete the program, it is time to update your resume with all these exciting credentials. Make sure to stress your education as a nurse and as a case manager. If you have previous clinical experience as a registered nurse, make sure to include that as well.
- Know the salary expectations and job outlook. The average salary of an RN case manager is around $53,000 to $75,000 per year depending on experience and educational background. RN case managers on either coast generally make higher salaries. Nursing jobs as a whole are in fairly high demand. The slowing economy has kept aging nurses in the profession longer than usual. As these nurses retire, more nursing jobs will become available. Case management positions are expected to be in high demand as the population ages. The numbers are a bit soft at the moment; however, master’s prepared nurses will always be able to find positions.
Good luck entering this nursing profession. Nursing is a truly rewarding career. RN case managers definitely have a positive impact on patient outcomes. Additionally, RN case managers save money for patients, institutions and insurance companies.