If you’re passionate about helping patients recover and regain their independence after serious injuries or illnesses, a career as a rehabilitation nurse could be a rewarding path for you. Read on and we'll break down everything you need to know about becoming a rehab registered nurse (RN), including salary expectations, job responsibilities, and how to apply for rehab RN jobs. 

What Is a Rehab Registered Nurse?

A rehabilitation registered nurse specializes in helping patients recover from physical injuries, chronic illnesses, surgeries, or disabilities. These nurses focus on improving patients’ mobility, daily living skills, and overall quality of life through patient care plans, therapy, and education.

Rehab nurses work with a wide range of patients, including those recovering from strokes, traumatic brain injuries, orthopedic surgeries, and spinal cord injuries. Their work plays a crucial role in helping patients restore function and adapt to life changes caused by their conditions.

Rehab Registered Nurse’s Salary

Rehabilitation nursing is a specialized field, and salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and education level. As of 2024, the average salary for a rehabilitation nurse in the U.S. is approximately $85,000 per year, according to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and other nursing industry resources.

More experienced rehab RNs or those in leadership roles, such as nurse managers, can earn upwards of $100,000 annually. Pay rates can also differ based on geographic location, with urban areas often offering higher salaries than rural locations.

What Does a Rehab Registered Nurse Do?

Rehabilitation registered nurses play a crucial role in helping patients recover and regain their independence. Their duties involve:

Evaluating patient needs: Performing physical and psychological assessments to determine each patient’s condition and specific limitations.

Developing care plans: Creating personalized rehabilitation plans that may include physical therapy, medication management, and patient education tailored to the patient’s needs.

Monitoring patient progress: Keeping track of the patient’s improvement and making necessary adjustments to care plans to ensure the best possible recovery outcomes.

Collaborating with a healthcare team: Coordinating with doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other medical professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Offering emotional support: Assisting patients and their families by providing guidance, emotional support, and resources to help them navigate the recovery process.

How to Become a Rehabilitation Nurse

If you’re aiming to start a career as a rehabilitation nurse, follow these steps to get started:

Step 1. Complete a Nursing Degree (ADN or BSN)

Begin by obtaining the necessary education to become a registered nurse (RN). You can pursue either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). While both degrees qualify you for RN licensure, a BSN offers more opportunities for career advancement and often leads to higher earning potential.

Step 2. Pass the NCLEX-RN

After graduating from your nursing program, the next step is to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This comprehensive exam is required to assess your competency and knowledge, ensuring you meet the standards to practice safely and effectively as an RN.

Step 3. Acquire Experience in Rehabilitation Nursing

To qualify for rehabilitation nursing positions, it's important to gain hands-on experience in a rehab-focused setting. You can do this by working in rehabilitation centers, specialized hospital units, or outpatient clinics that cater to patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. This experience will build your expertise in areas such as physical therapy, patient mobility, and recovery support.

Step 4. Pursue Certification in Rehabilitation Nursing

For further specialization, consider obtaining the Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) certification, which is highly regarded in the field. Earning this certification showcases your advanced knowledge and commitment to rehab nursing. To become certified, you’ll need at least two years of relevant experience and must pass an exam administered by the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN). This credential can enhance your career prospects and set you apart in the job market.

Best Online RN-to-BSN Programs 2024

To advance in the field of rehabilitation nursing, pursuing an RN-to-BSN program is a great option. Here are some of the best online RN-to-BSN programs available in 2024:

University of Florida-Online

Duration: 4 years

Cost: In-State $129/credit, Out-of-State $553/credit

University of Central Florida

Duration: 4 years

Cost: In-State $179/credit, Out-of-State $716/credit

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Duration: 4 years

Cost: $567/credit (both in-state and out-of-state)

Texas A & M International University

Duration: 4 years

Cost: In-State $281/credit, Out-of-State $794/credit

For more details on these programs, visit the universities' websites to find application deadlines, program details, and tuition assistance opportunities.

FAQs

Q1: What qualifications are needed to apply for a rehab registered nurse job?

A1: You need to be a licensed RN with an ADN or BSN degree. Employers may prefer candidates with experience in rehabilitation nursing and certifications like the CRRN.

Q2: How long does it take to become a rehab nurse?

A2: The timeline varies based on your education path. Typically, it takes about 2-4 years to complete an ADN or BSN program and pass the NCLEX-RN, followed by gaining experience in rehabilitation nursing.

Q3: Is a certification necessary to work as a rehab nurse?

A3: Certification is not required but is highly recommended. The CRRN certification can improve your job prospects and salary.

Q4: What are the typical hours for a rehabilitation nurse?

A4: Rehabilitation nurses often work full-time with shifts that include nights, weekends, or holidays, depending on the facility. Some positions, such as home healthcare roles, may offer more flexibility.

In conclusion, becoming a rehab registered nurse offers a rewarding career path where you can make a tangible difference in patients' lives. By following the steps outlined here and considering an RN-to-BSN program, you'll be well on your way to securing a job in this specialized field.