Rehab Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

Rehabilitation Registered Nurses (RNs) play a crucial role in helping patients recover and regain independence after illness, injury or surgery. These specialized nurses work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, long-term care facilities and outpatient clinics. The essential job functions of a Rehabilitation RN include assessing patients' functional abilities, developing individualized care plans, implementing therapeutic interventions, providing patient and family education, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and monitoring progress toward rehabilitation goals.

Education

To become a Rehabilitation RN, individuals must first obtain a nursing degree and gain licensure as a registered nurse. The educational background needed for this role includes completing either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The ADN program generally takes around two to three years to complete, while the BSN program typically takes four years. These nursing programs are offered at accredited community colleges, vocational schools and universities.

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Related certifications

After obtaining a nursing degree and licensure as a registered nurse, there are further requirements to pursue a career as a Rehabilitation RN. Some healthcare facilities may prefer candidates with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, as it provides a more comprehensive education in nursing practice and critical thinking.

Certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) is available through the Rehabilitation Nursing Certification Board. While certification is not mandatory, it demonstrates expertise and dedication to the field of rehabilitation nursing.

Experience in rehabilitation or related areas is highly valued for Rehabilitation RN positions. Many healthcare facilities require a certain number of years of experience as a registered nurse, preferably in rehabilitation, medical-surgical or critical care settings. Gaining experience in providing care to patients with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or complex medical conditions helps develop the necessary skills in rehabilitation nursing.

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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Skills

To succeed as a staff or travel Rehabilitation RN, a combination of knowledge, hard and soft skills and abilities is crucial. Rehabilitation RNs should have a strong foundation in rehabilitation nursing principles, including the management of functional limitations, therapeutic interventions and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills are vital for Rehabilitation RNs to establish rapport with patients and their families, provide education on rehabilitation strategies and collaborate with the healthcare team. Rehabilitation RNs should possess excellent assessment and critical thinking skills to evaluate patients' functional abilities, design care plans and adapt interventions based on patients' progress.

Other important skills include empathy, patience and the ability to motivate and support patients during their rehabilitation journey. Rehabilitation RNs should be proficient in coordinating care, managing resources and advocating for the needs and rights of patients. They should have basic technical skills to operate rehabilitation equipment, such as mobility aids and assistive

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Responsibilities

Rehabilitation RNs have a range of responsibilities associated with their role. They assess patients' physical, functional and psychosocial abilities, collaborating with the healthcare team to develop individualized care plans. Rehabilitation RNs implement therapeutic interventions, such as mobility exercises, occupational therapy and adaptive techniques. They provide patient and family education on self-care, assistive devices and community resources for ongoing rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation RNs monitor patients' progress towards rehabilitation goals, document observations and outcomes and communicate with interdisciplinary teams to modify care plans as needed. They assist with activities of daily living, administer medications and manage wound care when necessary. Rehabilitation RNs play a crucial role in supporting patients emotionally and mentally, addressing their concerns and facilitating the adjustment to life after illness or injury.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Rehab Nurse
$1,521-2,392/week

The average salary for a Rehab Nurse is $1,937.97 per week.

Last updated on February 17, 2025. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a Rehabilitation RN offers several benefits and drawbacks. Some advantages include the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients' lives by helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life. Rehabilitation RNs often have the chance to build long-term relationships with patients and witness their progress and accomplishments. The field offers opportunities for professional growth, continuing education and specialization within rehabilitation nursing.

However, there are challenges associated with this specialty. Rehabilitation nursing can be emotionally demanding, as nurses witness patients' struggles, setbacks and frustrations. The work can be physically demanding, requiring assisting with mobility, lifting and positioning patients. Rehabilitation RNs may also face time constraints and high patient-to-nurse ratios, which can impact the delivery of individualized care.

In conclusion, becoming a Rehabilitation RN requires obtaining a nursing degree, gaining licensure as a registered nurse and potentially acquiring additional certifications and experience in rehabilitation or related areas. It is crucial

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Rehab Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation

  • Indianola, IA
  • Nurse First
  • 4x9 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$3,436/week

Posted 6 days ago
 Verified
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation

  • Des Moines, IA
  • Genie Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights

$3,084/week

Estimated pay package
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation

  • Columbia, MO
  • Go Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$3,032/week

Posted 12 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Rehabilitation

  • Columbia, MO
  • Go Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$3,032/week

Posted 12 days ago

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