What is a Geriatric Nurse?
Understanding the Role of a Geriatric Nurse in 2025
As of 2025, the United States continues to experience a significant demographic shift, with individuals aged 65 and older comprising approximately 17.3% of the population. This trend underscores the growing need for specialized healthcare professionals adept at addressing the unique challenges faced by the elderly. Geriatric nurses play a pivotal role in this landscape, offering tailored care that enhances the quality of life for older adults.
What Does a Geriatric Nurse Do?
Geriatric nurses specialize in caring for older adults, managing both chronic and acute health conditions. Their responsibilities extend beyond clinical tasks to include emotional support and patient education. Key duties encompass:
- Administering medications and monitoring for side effects
- Assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and mobility
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans
- Educating patients and families about disease management and preventive care
- Identifying signs of elder abuse and taking appropriate action
These nurses often work closely with patients dealing with conditions like Alzheimer's disease, heart failure, and arthritis, providing both medical care and emotional support.
Employment Settings for Geriatric Nurses
Geriatric nurses find employment in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals and Clinics: Providing acute care and managing chronic conditions.
- Long-Term Care Facilities: Assisting residents with daily activities and medical needs.
- Home Health Agencies: Delivering care to patients in their homes.
- Hospice and Palliative Care: Focusing on comfort and quality of life for terminally ill patients.
- Community Health Organizations: Educating and supporting older adults in community settings.
Additionally, opportunities exist in academic institutions, research organizations, and policy-making bodies, where geriatric nurses contribute to education, innovation, and the development of age-friendly health policies.
Pathway to Becoming a Geriatric Nurse
- Educational Requirements: Aspiring geriatric nurses must first obtain a nursing degree. Options include an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). While an ADN provides a quicker route into the profession, a BSN is often preferred by employers and may offer more advancement opportunities.
- Licensure: Graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed RNs.
- Experience: Gaining clinical experience, particularly in settings that serve older adults, is crucial. This hands-on experience helps nurses develop the skills necessary for geriatric care.
- Certification: While not mandatory, obtaining certification in gerontological nursing can enhance a nurse's credentials. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers the Gerontological Nursing Certification (GERO-BC™), which validates expertise in the field. Eligibility requirements include:
- A current RN license
- Two years of full-time RN experience
- A minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in gerontological nursing within the last three years
- 30 hours of continuing education in gerontological nursing within the last three yearsGlassdoor
Salary Expectations for Geriatric Nurses
As of April 2025, the average hourly wage for geriatric nurses in the United States is approximately $53.85, equating to an annual salary of around $112,000. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and education level. For instance, geriatric nurses in urban areas or those with advanced certifications may command higher wages.
Job Outlook and Demand
The demand for geriatric nurses is on the rise, driven by the aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions among older adults. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in employment for registered nurses from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be particularly strong in specialties like geriatric nursing, where the need for skilled professionals is acute.
For those interested in exploring career opportunities in geriatric nursing and other healthcare fields, visit GoodWork to discover current job openings and resources.
