Nursing Career Quiz: Do You Know Your Options?

1. What is the primary difference between an RN and an LPN in terms of education and scope of practice?

RNs require a bachelor's degree; LPNs complete a 2-year diploma or associate program and have a narrower scope

RNs and LPNs have identical education and job responsibilities

LPNs can prescribe medications; RNs cannot

RNs work only in hospitals; LPNs work only in clinics

2. Which nursing specialty typically commands one of the highest salaries and requires specialized certification?

Pediatric nurse

Nurse anesthetist (CRNA)

Medical-surgical nurse

Home health nurse

3. What advanced degree is required to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP)?

Master's degree in nursing or higher

Associate degree

Diploma from a nursing school

Bachelor's degree only, no additional education

4. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, what is the projected job growth for nursing roles through 2032?

Decline by 5%

Grow by approximately 6-8%

No change in demand

Grow by 15% or more

5. Which factor most significantly influences salary variation among registered nurses?

Hair color and appearance

Geographic location, experience, specialty, and employer type

Gender only

Age of the nurse

6. What is the median annual salary range for a registered nurse (RN) in the United States?

$35,000–$45,000

$55,000–$75,000

$85,000–$110,000

$120,000–$150,000

7. Which nursing specialty focuses on care during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum periods?

Critical care nurse

Obstetric/perinatal nurse

Oncology nurse

Psychiatric nurse

8. A nurse manager or nurse leader typically requires which additional qualification beyond RN licensure?

Master's degree in nursing or business administration

Only CPR certification

High school diploma

No additional education required

9. Which setting typically offers the highest starting salary for new RN graduates?

Small rural clinics

Home health agencies

Acute-care hospitals and major medical centers

School nurse positions

10. What is a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)?

A nurse with a master's degree who improves patient care and healthcare delivery

A nurse with only a high school diploma

An LPN with 10+ years of experience

A nursing assistant role

11. Which nursing role involves direct patient care in a hospital setting and requires NCLEX-RN licensure?

Health educator

Registered nurse (RN)

Nursing researcher

Hospital administrator

Submit

15. True or False: Most states allow nurse practitioners to practice independently without physician supervision.

True

False