How much does a nurse make?

In the U.S., experience, education, and specialty credentials can matter; some employers require certifications. Pay also differs by state and workplace, and hospital night, weekend, or holiday shifts may bring extra shift pay.

Assess patient health problems and needs, develop and implement nursing care plans, and maintain medical records. Administer nursing care to ill, injured, convalescent, or disabled patients. May advise patients on health maintenance and disease prevention or provide case management. Licensing or registration required. Includes Clinical Nurse Specialists. Excludes “Nurse Anesthetists” (29-1151), “Nurse Midwives” (29-1161), and “Nurse Practitioners” (29-1171).

What's a typical day like?

A nurse starts by hearing updates from the last shift, then checks patients’ symptoms and vital signs. They give medicines, record changes, coordinate with the care team, and explain care to patients and families.

Complete an approved nursing program—an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or approved diploma—then pass the NCLEX-RN. Apply for a license through your state nursing board; many new RNs begin as staff nurses.

Usually a bachelor's degree (preparation level 4 of 5)

Good for people who like helping and teaching and keeping things organized.

Some U.S. RNs work away from the bedside: insurers and drug makers hire nurses for health planning, consulting, and quality checks.

The US figure is the median and the Japan figure is the average, so it's not a perfect comparison. Prices differ too.