Wheat Ridge CO

PRN Nursing Jobs Offer High-Pay in Wheat Ridge, CO

Wheat Ridge, Colorado, is a beautiful city just west of Denver and east of the Rocky Mountains. Wheat Ridge is a popular destination for those looking to live and work in the Denver metro area. One profession that is in high demand in Wheat Ridge is nursing. Registered nurses (RNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) play an integral role in this city's healthcare system. This article will explore what it is like to live and work as an RN, LPN, and CNA in Wheat Ridge.

RN Jobs in Wheat Ridge

Responsibilities

Some typical job duties of a registered nurse in this city include:

• Providing direct patient care: Whether you work in a hospital, clinic, or home health setting, your primary responsibility will be to provide direct patient care. This can include administering medications, performing treatments, and monitoring patients' conditions.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals: RNs in Wheat Ridge work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, LPNs, and CNAs. They collaborate to create and implement treatment plans, monitor patient progress, and provide the best possible care for their patients.
• Educating patients and their families: RNs also play a crucial role in patient education. They inform patients and their families about their health conditions, medications, and self-care practices to ensure their overall well-being.
• Administering and monitoring IV medications: Many RNs in Wheat Ridge work in hospitals or other inpatient settings where they may be responsible for administering and monitoring IV medications. This requires specialized training and skills to ensure patient safety.

As an RN in Wheat Ridge, your responsibilities might vary depending on the setting in which you work. 

Working PRN as an RN

PRN RNs in Wheat Ridge enjoy the following advantages:

• Higher pay: PRN RNs in Wheat Ridge often make a higher hourly wage than those in full-time positions. This is due to the flexibility of their schedule and the demand for their services.
• Flexible schedule: Working PRN allows RNs to have control over their schedule. They can choose which shifts they want to work, which can be ideal for those with other commitments or looking for a work-life balance.
• Exposure to different healthcare settings: Working PRN allows RNs to work in various healthcare settings. This can provide valuable experience and help them determine their career goals.

Many RNs in Wheat Ridge choose to work PRN (as needed), which allows them to have a flexible schedule and work as required.

LPN Jobs in Wheat Ridge

Responsibilities

Some common job duties and responsibilities of licensed practical nurses in this city include:

• Providing bedside care: LPNs in Wheat Ridge provide direct patient care.
• Assisting RNs: LPNs work under the direction of RNs and often assist them with patient care.
• Documenting patient information: LPNs are responsible for verifying patient information, including vital signs, medications, and other pertinent information in the patient's medical record.
• Educating patients and families: LPNs also play a role in patient education. They provide patients and their families with information and instructions about self-care and managing their health conditions.

LPNs play an essential role in Wheat Ridge's healthcare system.

Working PRN as an LPN

Some advantages of working PRN as an LPN in Wheat Ridge may include:

• Variety of work settings: Working PRN allows LPNs to work in various healthcare settings. This can provide valuable experience and help them determine their career goals.
• Exposure to different patient populations: Working PRN allows LPNs to work with a variety of patient populations, from pediatrics to geriatrics. This can be beneficial for their professional development and help them gain a broad range of skills.

Similar to RNs, LPNs in Wheat Ridge can also work PRN, providing them with the same benefits of a flexible schedule and higher pay.

CNA Jobs in Wheat Ridge

Responsibilities

Some common job duties and responsibilities of certified nurse assistants in this city include:

• Assisting patients with daily activities: CNAs help patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing. They also help with mobility and positioning.
• Taking vital signs: CNAs are responsible for taking and recording vital signs.
• Maintaining patient hygiene: CNAs help patients with personal hygiene, including brushing their teeth, combing their hair, and changing their clothes.
• Monitoring and reporting changes in patient's conditions: CNAs monitor patients' conditions and report any changes to their supervisor. They also document these changes in the patient's medical record.

CNAs play a critical role in providing direct patient care in Wheat Ridge. 

Working PRN as a CNA

Working PRN as a CNA in Wheat Ridge can also provide numerous benefits, including:

• Flexible schedule: Similar to RNs and LPNs, CNAs can enjoy a flexible schedule when working PRN. This can benefit those with other commitments or who want to balance work and personal life.
• Exposure to different healthcare settings: PRN CNAs can work in various healthcare settings. This can provide valuable experience and help them determine their career goals.

As mentioned above, for all PRN nursing professionals, nursing pay tends to be higher per hour.

Climate

Located just west of Denver, Wheat Ridge enjoys a semi-arid climate with four seasons. The city experiences mild winters with an average temperature of around 44°F and some snowfall, while summers are typically hot and dry, reaching up to 90°F. However, as a PRN nurse, it is crucial to pack accordingly and prepare for both cool and warm weather to be ready for your shifts at different healthcare facilities.

Lifestyle for Nurses

Wheat Ridge is often called the "City of Trees" due to its tree-lined streets and numerous parks, making it an ideal community for those who love the outdoors. The city has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and residents take great pride in maintaining a sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.

As a PRN nurse, you will be in a community that values wellness and health. You can join locals in their regular outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, or partake in community events focused on fitness and healthy living. The city also has numerous locally-owned restaurants and businesses that add to its small-town charm.

Cost of Living

One of the most significant advantages of working as a PRN nurse is earning a higher hourly rate than permanent nurses and the flexibility to choose your shifts and assignments. In Wheat Ridge, you can make the most out of this benefit, as the cost of living is lower compared to the nearby city of Denver.

The cost of housing in Wheat Ridge is significantly lower than in Denver. You can also find affordable rental options in the city. Additionally, as a PRN nurse, you can save on commute expenses and time, as most healthcare facilities in the city are located within a short distance from each other.

Population

With a population of around 30,861, Wheat Ridge is a relatively small community, making it easy to navigate and get to know people.

As a PRN nurse, you will enjoy working with a diverse patient population, including seniors, families, and individuals from different backgrounds. You will also have the opportunity to connect with fellow healthcare professionals and build a strong network within the community.

Popular Things to Do

While Wheat Ridge may be a small city, it offers many activities and attractions for all to enjoy. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, foodie, or history buff, this city has something for everyone.

As a PRN nurse, you can take advantage of your days off to explore the various parks and trails in the city, such as the Upper-Headwaters Trail and Discovery Park, or visit the ever-popular Anderson Park, known for its stunning mountain views. You can also enjoy a day of shopping and dining in the historic downtown area, which boasts local boutiques and restaurants.

Is Working as a PRN Nurse in Wheat Ridge Right for Me?

Nurses in Wheat Ridge might also find jobs in the surrounding area:

• Denver
• Arvada
• Parker
• Englewood
• Westminster
• Lakewood
• Broomfield

Living and working as an RN, LPN, or CNA in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, provides numerous opportunities for professional growth and a fulfilling career. With various healthcare settings and a demand for skilled professionals, this city offers an ideal environment for nursing professionals at all levels. Pick up PRN shifts and enjoy Wheat Ridge, a city that provides a welcoming community and endless possibilities for those looking to advance in their nursing career.