35 Nurse Resume Examples for 2024

Did you know that less than 2% of job applicants using online job boards or websites receive replies by an internal recruiter or hiring manager?

What a disaster?! As a registered nurse, you would think that all this technology supporting the hiring process of nurses would lead to improvements or faster response times but if you have ever spent time on a single application website then you know the frustration and effort that simply goes to waste. It's almost as if the entire online application process is a sweepstakes for your personal information instead of truly understanding your nursing background and work history as a registered nurse.

The EARN Cares team is here to help and leverage our nursing resume expertise to your advantage. In this article you will learn the tips, tricks, hacks and short-cuts for cutting through the clutter of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) which are used by countless job sites and portals in the healthcare industry to post roles and nursing job descriptions. You will also view 35 specific nurse resume examples that we found to be both useful and impressive in 2024.

Applicant Tracking System and Resumes

We also detail specific objectives and skills you should always include in your resume including 14 specific “Do's and Don'ts” as well as helpful FAQs that we've heard countless times from professional nurses (CNAs, LPNs, RNs, and NPs).

Keep in mind that our team has spent over ten thousand hours interviewing and evaluating thousands of nurses using our peer-review model and have analyzed over one thousand individual resumes to complete the task below.

35 Nurse Resume Examples for 2024

The internet is filled with endless nursing resume templates but what about specific nursing resumes that can benefit actual registered nurses at specific stages within their nursing career progression? At EARN Cares, we've helped thousands of nurses through our peer-RN network and have taken our experience, lessons and adapted them below to help curate 36 sample nurse resume examples.

1. New Graduate Nurse Resume Example

As a New Graduate Nurse, your resume will highlight your experiences as a nursing student, and how they have prepared you for your first role as an RN.

In addition, it will highlight the soft skills and hard skills that you have acquired through your education that will make you a valuable asset to the organization that you are pursuing. Click here to view our New Grad Registered Nurses Resume Example

2. Labor and Delivery Nurse Resume Example

Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses perform an essential role in assisting expectant mothers during labor, childbirth, and the immediate postpartum period. This nursing position is very popular and highly competitive for nursing applicants. Hiring managers are inundated with countless resumes for this nursing role therefore the nursing skills that a labor and delivery nurse should detail within their resume and nursing acumen include pain management, labor and delivery expertise, patient assessment and monitoring and proper medical documentation experience. Be sure to detail your experience in administering pain relief measures, such as epidurals. Highlight your nursing experience in the labor and delivery nursing setting, including the number of years you've worked in this specialty. Always emphasize your ability to assess and monitor the health of both the mother and baby during labor and childbirth and include language that details your ability to keep records of the labor progress, interventions, medications administered, and the condition of the mother and baby. Click here to view our L&D Nurse resume example

3. Cardiovascular Nurse Resume Example

Going through heart problems can be scary, and a cardiovascular nurse is there to offer comfort and reassurance. A cardiovascular registered nurse works with doctors to make sure patients with heart problems get proper treatment. If this is you or you're considering this specialty then make sure your resume details or summarizes certifications and experience with advanced cardiac life support. This includes basic qualifications like taking blood pressure, vital signs, measuring heart rate, and listening with a stethoscope. Hiring managers desire you to detail experience performing diagnostic tests such as ECG and nursing knowledge about specific cardiovascular medications and treatments but also showcase past nursing positions and how you have provided patient care and specific education to patients and their families about heart health including explaining what to eat, exercise, and how to avoid things that are bad for the heart, like smoking. Lastly, detail specific nursing skills related heart procedures or surgeries that you have experience performing and what responsibilities you've been given by doctors and other healthcare professionals in order to create the best care plan for each patient. Click here to view our Cardiovascular RN resume example

4. Certified Nurse Midwife Resume Example

Certified Nurse Midwifes (CNM) are crucial nursing professionals for women's healthcare, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. CNMs are registered nurses who have graduated from a master's or higher-level nurse-midwifery education program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) and have passed the national Certified Nurse-Midwife Examination through the American Midwifery Certification Board.

The nursing skills that a CNM should detail within their nursing resume and nursing background include clinical skills, communication talents, emergency response acumen, patient-centered care examples and high attention to detail via record-keeping. Always highlight your ability to provide prenatal care, assist in childbirth, and offer postpartum care. Emphasize strong communication skills, especially in patient education and counseling. Note your training and experience in handling obstetrical emergencies. Showcase your commitment to providing personalized and compassionate care to expectant mothers and their families while highlighting your attention to detail in maintaining accurate patient records. Lastly, if you are fluent in languages other than English, especially languages spoken by the patient population you serve, consider including this as a valuable skill and your level of proficiency.

5. Clinical Nurse Educator Resume Example

The responsibility of a Clinical Nurse Educator is to ensure that Nursing staff is up to speed and educated on best practices, improving patient outcomes, as well as often educating staff on new processes, procedures, or products. Due to the educational nature of this nursing position, most hiring managers will be looking for nursing resumes that display 4+ years of experience within the specialty to which you are applying, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. In addition, it will be important for you to highlight within your resume your past experiences with providing education. If you have been a part of any unit-based committees where you educated staff, be sure to include these in your resume. Because a Clinical Nurse Educator is often looked to as a leader, be sure to highlight your leadership skills within your resume; this may include past leadership roles within prior jobs. If you have obtained any further education pertaining to the area of specialty that you are applying to, be sure to include those within your resume as well.

6. Critical Care Nurse Resume Example

When a patient is in critical condition, the Critical Care Nurse is a crucial part of their recovery process. Due to the intensive nature of this environment, generally hiring managers will be looking for experienced nurses with specialized nursing skills; these should be displayed in your ICU Nurse resume to show hiring managers that you have the competency and confidence to care for this population of patients. Specifically, you will want to ensure that you have ann active certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, a certification that is required for all critical care roles. In addition, you will need your certification in basic life support, as well as possess basic skills, such as interpreting vital signs, time management skills, critical thinking, and the ability to work well under pressure. You will want to display any relevant critical care experiences that you have with: Mechanical ventilation, ECG interpretation, caring for patients suffering from strokes, and working with titratable medications. If you are coming from a non-critical care role, be sure to highlight your previous nursing jobs that have prepared you to step into this role. Some hospitals require 1-2 years of ICU or Critical Care experience in order to be hired. Again, if you do not have this experience, be sure to specifically highlight past roles that have required you to use your skills of critical thinking and ability to work well under pressure.

7. Operating Room, Perioperative or Surgical Services Resume Example

Operating Room Registered Nurses (OR RNs) can be named by various nursing job titles including surgical services registered nurses and/or perioperative registered nurses. These nurses play a vital role in surgical procedures by providing patient care and ensuring the operating room operates safely and efficiently.

An experienced operating room nurse resume should highlight your experience in surgical nursing settings and specify the number of years you've worked in this specialized field. Omit any past nursing roles that are unrelated to the job description of the nursing position that you applying for.
Key skills that are important to demonstrate effectively include critical thinking in high pressure settings, aseptic nursing techniques, including effective coordination with the surgical team, patients, and their families while showcasing your ability to assist surgeons during procedures and anticipating surgical needs. Emphasize your hard skills in assessing patients before surgery and ensuring they are medically prepared for the procedure. Detail the nurse-to-patient ratio and frequency of procedures that you have experience in on daily or weekly basis. If you have experience in sterilizing and handling surgical instruments be confident to specifically mention them and include this as a specialized skill on your nursing resume. Lastly, mention your current nursing license and specify certifications (CNOR or CCI) that you hold, plus any continuing education that your are pursuing or associations you are actively involved with.

8. Dialysis Registered Nurse Resume Example

Dialysis Registered Nurses (Dialysis RNs) are specialized nurses who care for patients with kidney problems and those undergoing dialysis treatments. A Dialysis RN typically has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Dialysis units may require certification as a Certified Nephrology Nurse (CNN) or Certified Dialysis Nurse (CDN), although this is often obtained after gaining experience. Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) are often prerequisites. Healthcare employers and hiring managers typically prefer candidates with a minimum of one to two years of nursing experience, preferably in a related field such as nephrology or critical care.  

Nurses who possess a high attention to detail are great for these positions since they will interact with complex medical equipment and administer medications precisely. Emphasize your ability to administer medications specific to dialysis patients, such as erythropoietin-stimulating agents or phosphate binders and  highlight nursing proficiency in performing hemodialysis procedures, including initiating, monitoring, and discontinuing treatment. Be sure to mention your knowledge of infection control practices to minimize the risk of infections related to dialysis treatment. Click here to view our Dialysis Registered Nurses Resume Example

9. Emergency Services or Emergency Room Nurse Resume Example

The Emergency Room Nurse is often the first person to interact with a patient when they enter into the hospital. Since these Nurses are working with patients in an often stressful time in their lives, it is important that they have the ability to provide empathetic and compassionate care amidst high intensity situations. Often times, the Emergency Room can have a mixture of high and low acuity patients, so it is important that the Emergency Room Nurse has a strong ability to prioritize and adjust based on patient needs. Some common nursing skills that hiring managers will be looking for include: Time management, critical thinking, prioritization, and teamwork. In addition, they will be looking for nursing resumes that display at least one year of recent acute care experience. Due to the fast-paced nature of emergency nursing, it will be important in your nursing resume to highlight past roles that display your ability to work successfully in a higher intensity environment. In addition, a hiring manager will be looking for you to have active certifications in Basic life support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
Click here to view our Emergency Services or ER RN Resume Example

10. Home Health Nurse Resume Example

As more patients are requiring care outside of the hospital, the role of the Home Health Nurse has become essential in the patient care journey. There are certain soft skills as well as hard skills that a hiring manager will be looking for in a Home Health Nurse. You will need experience with basic skills such as performing physical assessments, measuring and interpreting vital signs, documentation, and time management. In addition, hiring managers will be looking for experience that you have with more specialized skills, such as: Wound care, feeding tube management, tracheostomy care, and patient education. Within your nursing resume, you will want to highlight past jobs in which you displayed these skill sets. Be sure to display your current active certifications, such as CPR, BLS, and any other certifications pertinent to the role. Depending on the organization, these roles can be a great option for both a licensed practical nurse as well as a registered nurse. Click here to view our Home Health RN Nurse Resume Example

11. Hospice Nurse Resume Example

Hospice Registered Nurses (Hospice RNs) provide compassionate care to patients who are nearing the end of their lives. The nursing objective of that hiring managers want to observe in your nursing resume is how you've focused on managing patient symptoms, what comfort you seek to provide by ensuring a peaceful and dignified transition towards end of life. Often times your day-to-day activities include providing emotional support to patients and their families, addressing their concerns and providing guidance on end-of-life decisions.

Match your nursing skills to the job description and detail how a hospice registered nurse is properly equipped to bring about emotional and psychological support including any ways that you have collaborated with any interdisciplinary hospice teams, which may include social workers, chaplains, and counselors, to ensure comprehensive care. You’ll want to detail your ability to provide compassionate and empathetic care to patients and their loved ones and if you have experience in palliative care, as it's closely related to hospice care and any certifications that are up to date include CPR, ALS, BLS or others that showcase your ability to demonstrate your emergency response acumen.

Click here to view our Hospice Nurse Resume Example 

12. Informatics Nurse Resume Example

The Informatics Nurse is responsible for evaluating data and trends within a healthcare industry, and then developing processes to improve those findings. They are also responsible for educating staff on these processes. When hiring managers look at a nursing resume, they will often look for an experienced nurse who has 3-5 years of acute care experience as a registered nurse. In addition, they may require previous experience in informatics. This role requires high attention to detail, well-developed critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to gather and interpret data. Obtaining an Informatics Nursing Certification (RN-BC) can assist Nurses in obtaining a role in informatics. Make sure to highlight past jobs that have required similar skill sets, as well as past roles where you have been responsible for data assessment or educating other staff.

Click here to view our Informatics Nurse Resume Example

13. Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse Resume Example

Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses (NICU RN) provide care to critically ill infants and their families during a very stressful time in their lives. For this reason, it is essential that these Nurses are compassionate and empathetic in the care that they provide. In addition, due to the intensive nature of the role, certain specialized nursing skills will be required for this role. Specially, NICU RN’s will need to have their NRP (Neonotal Resuscitation Program) certification to ensure that they can provide safe care to critically ill infants. In addition, you will want to display past roles that show any work experience you have with the pediatric population, as well as any critical care experience. In addition, the NICU can be a high intensity environment, so ensure to highlight strong communication skills and critical thinking, as these are essential for a Nurse in this role. Within your NICU Nurse resume, be sure to highlight any current relevant certifications that you carry, such as BLS, ALS, CPR, etc. Click here to view our Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse Resume Template

14. Obstetrics Nurse Resume Example

The primary role of the Obstetrics Nurse is to provide care to expectant mothers during the labor and delivery process, as well as care for the newborn baby. Nurses in this role will need to have a compassionate and empathetic approach to care, as they are working with oftentimes new mothers and their newborn, as well as family members who may be present. Oftentimes, a hiring manager for this position will be looking for at least 1 year of acute care Nursing experience, and some may require at least 1 year of experience in obstetrics. In addition, you will be required to have your Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, as well as your Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification either at hire or within 6 months of hire. Due to the nature of caring for both mothers and their newborns, it is important that the Nurse seeking this role has developed excellent time management skills, as well as being able to adapt priorities to meet patient needs. You will be expected to perform some basic hard skills such as: Performing vital signs and assessments, administering medications, and monitoring for changes in patient status during the laboring, delivery, and postpartum process. Familiarity with what are expected and unexpected progressions in the laboring process will be essential for this role. If this is a new specialty for you, be sure to include past roles that have required similar skill sets.

Click here to view our Obstetrics Nurse Resume Template

15. Pediatric Nurse Resume Example

The Pediatric Nurse is responsible for the primary care of children from birth to the age of 18. When hiring managers are looking a nursing resume, they will typically be looking for 1-2 years of experience as a registered nurse, as well as experience working in pediatrics. However, experience in pediatrics is not always required. In addition, you will be expected to perform basic nursing skills, such as: Assessing vital signs, performing physical assessments, documenting findings, and educating patients and their parents. Unlike working with adults, when working in pediatrics there is a much greater degree of communication and interaction that takes place with family.

A résumé for a pediatric nursing position should emphasize the nurse's passion and expertise in caring for children and their families. Key components should include a compelling summary or objective statement expressing their commitment to pediatric care, relevant certifications such as PNCB or CPN, a comprehensive list of pediatric nursing experience (if applicable), specifying areas like neonatal, pediatric, or adolescent care, and any specializations within pediatrics, such as pediatric oncology or critical care. Additionally, highlighting proficiency in child development, family-centered care, pain management, and age-appropriate communication is vital. Demonstrated skills in creating a supportive and comforting environment for young patients and their families, as well as collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, should be prominently featured to showcase their suitability for the role.
Click here to view our Pediatric Nurse Resume Template

16. Psychiatric Nurse Resume Example

The Psychiatric Nurse is responsible for the primary care of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. A résumé for a psychiatric nursing position should highlight the nurse's specialized skills and qualifications for providing compassionate and effective care to individuals with mental health issues. Key components to include are a summary or objective statement showcasing their dedication to mental health nursing, relevant certifications or licensures (such as RN or PMHNP), a concise list of psychiatric nursing experience, highlighting the types of settings (e.g., inpatient, outpatient) and populations (e.g., children, adults) worked with, proficiency in therapeutic techniques, crisis intervention skills, medication management expertise, and any specific training related to mental health disorders. Additionally, emphasizing excellent communication, empathy, and teamwork skills is crucial in this field where building trust and rapport with patients is paramount. Click here to view our Psychiatric Nurse Resume Template

17. Oncology Nurse Resume Example

The Onocology Nurse is responsible for providing primary care to individuals undergoing treatment for cancer. Due to the sensitive nature of this setting, the nurse will need to have the ability to provide empathetic and compassionate care to their patients. In addition, they will often be providing emotional support to the patient’s family and/or friends as well. In a nursing resume tailored for an oncology nursing position, a registered nurse should focus on both their nursing qualifications and essential soft skills. The resume should prominently showcase relevant skills such as chemotherapy administration, cancer treatment protocols, symptom management, and patient education in oncology care. It's crucial to highlight their ability to provide emotional support and compassionate care to cancer patients and their families during a challenging journey. Mentioning any oncology certifications or training is important. Moreover, a well-crafted cover letter accompanying the nursing resume can further express their commitment to oncology nursing and how their combination of clinical expertise and strong soft skills, such as communication and empathy, uniquely qualifies them for this specialized nursing role. Click here to view our Oncology Registered Nurses Resume Example

18. Substance Abuse Nurse Resume Example

The Substance Abuse Nurse is responsible for providing primary care to individuals who are recovering from utilization of addictive substances, which often includes mental health components as well. In a nursing resume tailored for a substance abuse nursing position, a registered nurse should emphasize their nursing qualifications, specific relevant skills, and essential soft skills. The resume should prominently feature skills related to addiction assessment, withdrawal management, medication-assisted treatment, and counseling techniques for individuals struggling with substance abuse. Additionally, highlighting certifications or specialized training in addiction nursing is essential. It's crucial to showcase strong soft skills such as empathy, non-judgmental communication, and the ability to build trust with patients facing addiction. Complementing the nursing resume with a well-crafted cover letter can further demonstrate their commitment to helping individuals overcome substance abuse, detailing how their clinical expertise and compassionate approach make them an excellent fit for this specialized nursing role. Click here to view our Substance Abuse Nurse Resume Template

19. Community Health Nurse Resume Example

The Community Health Nurse is responsible for providing care and education to patients in a community-based setting. In a nursing resume tailored for a community health nursing position, a registered nurse should showcase their nursing qualifications, specific relevant skills, and strong soft skills. The resume should highlight skills related to health promotion, disease prevention, community assessment, and the ability to work with diverse populations. Mentioning any certifications or training in community health nursing is essential. Additionally, emphasizing soft skills such as cultural competence, communication, collaboration, and the capacity to engage and educate communities in healthcare initiatives is crucial. Complementing the nursing resume with a well-crafted cover letter can further illustrate their dedication to improving community health outcomes, articulating how their clinical expertise and interpersonal strengths uniquely qualify them for this specialized nursing role.

Click here to view our Community Health Nurse Resume Template

20. Telemetry Nurse Resume Example

Telemetry Registered Nurses (Telemetry RNs) specialize in caring for patients with heart conditions who require continuous monitoring of their heart's electrical activity and vital signs. The duty of telemetry registered nurse is to ensure patients remain in a stable condition and that they are able to receive the care they need should their symptoms worsen. Hospitals typically have critical need for these nurses and these nursing positions are great opportunities for nurses looking to build their experience in hospital setting. 

Telemetry nurses should highlight their expertise in using telemetry equipment to monitor patients' heart rhythms and vital signs and ensure telemetry monitoring equipment is functioning properly and accurately transmitting data. Be specific to show your acumen in analyzing and interpreting the data from telemetry monitors, identifying changes or irregularities in a patient's heart rhythm and vital signs.Detail any opportunities that you’ve had in past nursing roles to educate patients and their families about their heart condition, medications, lifestyle modifications, and any necessary dietary changes. 

Click here to view our Telemetry Registered Nurses Resume Example

21. Progressive Care Nurse Resume Example

The Progressive Care Nurse is primarily responsible for providing care to patients in the inpatient setting, specifically ones who need a higher level of care than a medical-surgical unit can provide. When crafting a resume for a progressive care nursing position, registered nurses should ensure it highlights their nursing qualifications and relevant skills that are crucial for success in this specialized field. It's essential to showcase proficiency in cardiac monitoring, critical thinking, and rapid response to changing patient conditions. Additionally, mentioning any certifications or training specific to progressive care nursing, such as PCCN (Progressive Care Certified Nurse), can bolster one's candidacy. To stand out to potential employers, nurses can also detail their ability to collaborate effectively with other nurses, physicians, and healthcare professionals, as teamwork is paramount in progressive care units where patients often require close monitoring and intensive interventions. This comprehensive resume will demonstrate the nurse's qualifications and suitability for providing high-quality care to patients in a progressive care setting. Click here to view our Progressive Care Registered Nurses Resume Example

22. Wound Care Nurse Resume Example

Wound Care Nurses serve a vital role both inside and outside of the hospital. Although experience in advanced wound care is desired for these roles, it is not always required. When creating a nursing resume for a position as a Wound Care Nurse, be ensure to highlight experiences and previous roles that required similar skill sets. Some of these skill sets may include: Performing wound dressing changes, managing wound vacs, assessing wounds, as well as performing comprehensive skin assessments. As with many other nursing jobs, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred, however some hiring managers will still consider Nurses who have their Associate Degree in Nursing. When compiling your resume, ensure that you highlight soft skills such as attention to detail and time management. As a Wound Care Nurse, you may be seeing several patients throughout a shift, whether in home or in the hospital. Hiring managers will want to see that you can manage your time effectively and complete your patient care with efficiency. If you carry any certifications specific to wound care, make sure to include these in your resume summary. Click here to view our Wound Care Nurse Nurse Resume Template

23. Medical Surgical Nurse Resume Example

Medical-Surgical Registered Nurses are often referred to as Med-Surg Nurses. These nurses handle a wide range of medical conditions and surgical procedures. Increasingly, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred but not always required if coupled with relevant experience. While the exact nursing job requirements may vary, most employers prefer candidates with one to two years of experience in a medical-surgical nursing setting. New graduate nursing candidates may be accepted into entry-level Med-Surg nursing positions which are great roles to build experience in a hospital setting. An easy way to stand out is to obtain nursing certifications such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) as they are often required for most hospital nursing positions these days. Med-Surg Nurses must be able to showcase their critical thinking and problem-solving to provide quality care to patients with diverse medical conditions, ensure your resume reflects both these traits at past employers or workplace settings.

Med-Surg Nurses often juggle multiple patients with different needs, so strong time management skills are essential but be descriptive in how you explain your nursing history and insert language that demonstrates what you were responsible for versus what was just normal or routine for any past nursing roles.  Lastly, it’s good to keep in mind that medical-surgical nursing environments can be fast-paced and unpredictable, so adaptability is a key talent that you have to speak to. It never hurts to speak to patient volume and the differing procedures, shifts or extenuating circumstances with past healthcare employers.  Click here to view our Medical-Surgical Registered Nurses Resume Example

24. Research Nurse Resume Example

In a resume tailored for a research nursing position, experienced nurses should prominently feature their registered nursing qualifications and relevant skills related to clinical research. It's essential to showcase experience in research protocol implementation, data collection and analysis, and adherence to ethical standards in clinical trials or studies. Highlighting any specialized certifications in research nursing, such as CCRC (Certified Clinical Research Coordinator), is valuable. Additionally, emphasizing critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams can demonstrate the nurse's suitability for this role, where precision and adherence to research protocols are paramount to advancing healthcare knowledge and patient care. Click here to view our Research Nurses Resume Example

25. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) role is an advanced Nursing role that allows Nurses to diagnose, treat, and prescribe to patients. Depending on the state where the NP is licensed, he/she may need oversight from a Medical Doctor in order to practice. When applying for a role as an NP, you will need to have obtain a NP focused Master Degree in Nursing or Doctoral Degree in Nursing, as well as passing a national NP board certification exam. In addition, some roles may require that you have previous clinical experience in the acute care or outpatient setting. You will also need to provide a copy of DEA certificate, as well as present active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Depending on the setting, the Nurse Practitioner may be the Primary Provider for several patients. This position will require attention to detail, excellent time management skills, as well as well-developed critical thinking. You will need to have the ability to educate patients on diagnoses, as well as develop treatment plans and implement medications when needed. Click here to view our Nurse Practitioner Resume Template

26. Nursing School Faculty Resume Example

For those looking to pass their Nursing experience onto the next generation of Nurses, obtaining a role are a Nursing School Faculty can be a great next step. Since this role involves teaching within higher education, you will be required to have a Master’s Degree in Nursing. In addition, hiring managers will often be looking for a nurse resume that reflects 3+ years of clinical Nursing experience. In this role, you will often be expected to develop lesson plans based around whatever course you have been assigned to, as well as grading exams and providing students with feedback to assist them in advancing within their education. In your nursing resume, it will be important to highlight your skill sets of communication, leadership, and teamwork. You can do this by highlighting past positions that exemplify these skills, as well as professional certifications that you have obtained to grow these skill sets.
Click here to view our Nursing School Faculty Resume Template

27. Cardiology Nurse Resume Example

The Cardiology Nurse is primarily responsible for providing care to cardiology patient’s in the outpatient setting, often within a clinic environment. This role is heavily focused on providing patient education, assessing vital signs, and performing assessments. In addition, experience with performing and interpreting EKG’s is often required for this role. Most hiring managers will be looking for at least 1 year of recent acute care or outpatient experience in the area of specialty, as well as sometimes requiring specialty certifications. A nurse in this role will need to have their Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and some employers may require Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification as well. The nurse in this role will need to have prior experience with medications and treatments specific to the specialty, and be able to educate patients on appropriate adherence and potential side effects. In addition, experience with the following is beneficial: Pacemakers, Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICD), cardioversion, and cardiac catheterization. In your nursing resume, be sure to include prior jobs where you have experience in this specialty, as well as any certifications that you have obtained that pertain to this specialty. Click here to view our Cardiology Nurse Resume Template

28. Post Anesthesia Care Nurse Resume Example

The Post Anesthesia Care Nurse (PACU RN) is responsible for providing direct patient care to patients immediately after surgery as they recover from anesthesia. As a registered nurse in the PACU setting, hiring managers will expect you to have at least 1 year of recent acute care experience, as well as often times preferring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN). In addition, you will need to have your Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, as well as your Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification. You will be expected to perform basic nursing skills, such as: Assessing vital signs, administering medication, and performing assessments. In addition, due to the acute nature of patients within the PACU, the PACU RN will need to possess a high attention to detail, as well as the ability to perform detailed multi system assessments on patients. This role will often require caring for patients who have artificial airways in place, so highlighting previous experience with this skill set is valuable. Be sure to include within your resume summary any certifications that you have obtained that pertain to this specialty. Click here to view our Post Anesthesia Care Nurse Resume Template

29. Nurse Supervisor Resume Example

The Nursing Supervisor is responsible for the oversight of Nursing staff, as well as other key positions such as certified nursing assistants and patient care technicians. The Nursing Supervisor provides leadership and guidance to staff, as well as is responsible for managing day to day operations of the unit, such as: Scheduling, staff to patient ratios, education, and staff development.

In a resume for a nurse supervisor position, experienced nurses should prominently showcase their registered nursing qualifications and highlight their relevant skills, with a particular emphasis on leadership abilities. It's essential to detail previous experience in supervisory roles, including staff management, team development, and resource allocation. Strong leadership skills, such as effective communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution, should be prominently featured, as nurse supervisors play a pivotal role in maintaining high standards of patient care. Mentioning any leadership-related certifications or training, such as Nurse Leadership or Nurse Manager certifications, can further underscore their qualifications for this role. This comprehensive resume will demonstrate the nurse's capability to lead and inspire a team of healthcare professionals, ensuring the delivery of top-notch patient care. Click here to view our Nurse Supervisor Resume Template

30. Charge Nurse Resume Example

The Charge Nurse is responsible for providing leadership and management during their shift. When applying for a charge nurse position, experienced nurses should create a resume that prominently highlights their registered nursing qualifications, relevant skills, and strong leadership abilities. It's essential to detail prior experience in leadership roles within clinical settings, emphasizing skills in staff supervision, patient care coordination, and decision-making. Effective leadership skills, such as conflict resolution, communication, and team management, should be showcased, as charge nurses are responsible for overseeing daily operations and maintaining high standards of care. Mentioning any leadership-related certifications, like Nurse Leadership or Charge Nurse certifications, can further validate their qualifications for this role. This comprehensive resume will demonstrate the nurse's capacity to lead and guide a healthcare team, ensuring the provision of excellent patient care. Click here to view our Charge Nurse Resume Template

31. Neuro Rehab Nurse Resume Example

The Neuro Rehab Nurse is responsible for providing primary care to patients experience neurological challenges. In a resume tailored for a neuro rehab nurse position, experienced nurses should emphasize their registered nursing qualifications and specialized skills in neurorehabilitation. Highlighting expertise in caring for patients with neurological conditions, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or traumatic brain injury, is crucial. Detailing proficiency in conducting comprehensive neurological assessments, developing individualized care plans, and implementing rehabilitation therapies is essential. Additionally, showcasing leadership skills, including the ability to coordinate interdisciplinary teams and provide education to patients and their families, can further underscore their qualifications for this specialized role. This comprehensive resume will demonstrate the nurse's capability to provide specialized care and support to patients on their journey to neurological recovery in a rehabilitation setting. Click here to view our Neuro Rehab Nurse Resume Template

32. Endoscopy Nurse Resume Example

The key role of the Endoscopy Nurse (Endoscopy RN) is to provide care for patients undergoing Endoscopy procedures, both pre-, intra-, and post-procedurally. In this role, RN’s will be required to use basic skills such as: Monitoring vital signs, performing assessments, administering medications, and providing patient education. In addition, patients often receive some form of sedation in these procedures, so experience with sedation medications is beneficial for this role. When creating your nursing resume, be sure to highlight past roles where you have performed these skill sets. This role will require that you have certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS), and some facilities may require that you obtain your Advanced Cardiac Life Supporet (ACLS) certification, since these procedures often use sedation. Although a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is not required for this role, it is often preferred by a hiring manager. Some employers may require 1+ year of recent acute care experience to be considered for this role. Click here to view our Endoscopy Nurse Resume Template

33. Internal Medicine Nurse Resume Example

When crafting a resume for an internal medicine nurse position during your job search in the nursing field, focus on showcasing your qualifications and nursing education relevant to internal medicine. Highlight your registered nurse credentials and any specialized certifications related to internal medicine nursing. Detail your experience in caring for adult patients, emphasizing skills in health assessments, chronic disease management, and patient education. Mention any familiarity with common internal medicine conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or cardiac issues. Additionally, emphasize your ability to work closely with internal medicine physicians and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team. This tailored resume will demonstrate your suitability for the role of an internal medicine nurse and increase your chances of securing the position. Click here to view our Internal Medicine Nurse Resume Template

34. Care Coordinator Nurse Resume Example

In a resume for a care coordinator nurse in a registered nurse position, it's crucial to highlight strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams. Emphasize your experience in patient advocacy and care coordination, showcasing your talent for managing complex medical cases and collaborating with various healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care. Highlight your proficiency in time management, as care coordinators often juggle multiple patient cases and must prioritize effectively. Mention any certifications or training related to care coordination and case management, underscoring your qualifications for this role. This tailored resume will demonstrate your capacity to serve as a crucial link in the healthcare system, ensuring that patients receive the seamless and holistic care they need. Click here to view our Care Coordinator Nurse Resume Template

35. Cardio Thoracic Nurse Resume Example

The Cardio Thoracic Nurse provides direct patient care to individuals experiencing cardiac difficulties, including those undergoing cardio thoracic procedures. When applying for a registered nurse position as a cardiothoracic nurse, your resume should prominently feature your expertise in cardiovascular care. Highlight your experience in critical thinking and decision-making when managing patients with complex cardiothoracic conditions. Detail your proficiency in tasks such as interpreting EKGs, administering post-operative care to cardiac surgery patients, and managing patients with various cardiovascular diseases. Mention any certifications or specialized training in cardiothoracic nursing to underscore your qualifications for this role. This tailored resume will demonstrate your competence in providing specialized care to patients with heart and thoracic conditions, making you a valuable asset to the healthcare team. Click here to view our Cardio Thoracic RN Resume Template

13 Nurse Resume Do's and Don'ts

Have you ever wondered what are some of the "Dos and Don't Dos" when it comes to information to include or note include on your resume? When it comes to the best registered nurse resume consider the following:

DO:

  1. Always be sure to include your city, state and LinkedIn URL in your registered nurse resume.

  2. Craft a resume summary that's tailored for the role you are applying to. The biggest hack here is to leverage the job posting of the role by searching for key roles and phrases and naturally adding those in your effective nursing resume. Also don't over do it, if you are going for a staff role and have charge experience it might send the wrong message if you only talk about leadership qualities versus your bedside manner and ability to tackle the job.

  3. Include months and year for past positions held. A year or more at any nursing job is worth including on your resume. If you have been working per diem at all then include it as well but note that it's part time or per diem.

  4. Include a professional email address but not the email address associated to your current employer. You'd be surprised how many people have inappropriate email addresses, these are red flags and should be avoided.

  5. Include a list of key nursing skills that align to keywords or phrases in the role you are apply to or the job description provided by the potential employers.

  6. Include metrics that you contributed to or were responsible for in each role in your job history (up to 3, no more than 5)

  7. Include all your certifications. If you are a new grad and all you have is your national council of licensure examination (NCLEX) then be sure to add when you plan to obtain other certifications like your ALS or BLS. If you have any advanced certifications then list them as well as the corresponding dates. These skills translate to hard skills that differentiate you from your peers.

    DO NOT:

  8. Insert your full mailing address or include a photo/headshot of yourself. Including a photo wastes space on your resume. Recruiters and hiring managers hate this so instead, use the small canvas of your resume to discuss your nursing qualifications and goals. Additionally your street address should not be included, sharing that information can lead to a unintentional bias.

  9. List "References upon request." Not needed. Instead include three contacts that you are confident that they can vouch for your work ethic, nursing qualifications and relevant skills. Make sure to include their contact information as a phone number or email address and your relationship or association to them (e.g. did they supervise you, work alongside you or report to you).

  10. Salary or reasons for leaving a past role. The general rule to remember is to include your last 7-10 years of experience and only roles that you remained out for a year or more. Anything less than a year signals that you are a job hopper or not loyal even if you have a good reason for leaving. Additionally you don't need to put your hourly or annual salary in your resume.

  11. Age or Date of Birth. Neither is appropriate and you do not want to give anyone a reason to discriminate against you for any reason.

  12. Put in cliches like "team player, hard worker, helped or responsible for, critical thinker." Force yourself to take five to ten extra seconds or use a thesaurus to better describe yourself when it comes to hard and soft skills. As more people start using shortcuts like AI to build or craft their resume everything starts to look the same - keep that in mind.

  13. Visual rating of your skills. For some reason candidates starting listing hard and soft skills on range or spectrum from beginner to expert with cute graphics to accompany the words. Don't do this as it wastes space and is confusing to most recruiters and hiring managers. Only list what you are best at.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a cover letter?
    No, not unless a role specifically asks for it

  • What should I put on my nursing resume?
    Your contact info, educational history, recent or relevant professional experience related to the role that you are applying to and statement explaining your career objective.

  • What type of resume is good for nurses?
    A typical nurse resume should be 1-2 pages, visit our resume center for samples or to purchase a sample that you can work with.

  • How far back should a nurse resume go?
    Your last 7 years of nurse employment

  • How many pages should a nurse resume be?
    Typically 1-2 pages, try to keep it under 4 (front and back)

    Have questions about your resume? Consult our team by emailing your resume to info@earn.work or visit our Resume Center for more resources

Final Word

Resumes are necessary tool that can effectively allow you to communicate who you are, what you have done, your ambitions, experience and skills.

Oftentimes people wait until they are out of work or frustrated to give their resume the attention it deserves. Don’t do that! We recommend refreshing your resume at least once per year. At a minimum you should update your current role with milestones, awards and responsibilities in case you should need it. An easy time to do this is during your annual review internally. Since you the time is already set aside for self-reflection then use it for your resume!

Remember job postings and job descriptions are simply documentation that an employer thinks they want for a role. What they want is a person and one who can and desires to do the job. The “delta” or gap between the job description and the resume lies in “skills.” Always be actionable, honest and concrete in describing your employment history. Do not be afraid to leverage the job description for any nursing role to include words, phrases and specific keywords that you can insert into your resume where appropriate because you have done.

Good luck and don’t hesitate to reach out to EARN Cares as our peer-network would love to help you with your resume, interview preparation and negotiation.

Ryan SmeetsComment