Kansas has a lot of opportunities for finding the perfect nurse job whether you’re the type of person who loves the quick pace of city life or the type who loves the slower pace rural Kansas has to offer, there’s a nursing career path waiting for you. This blog will delve into all of the aspects of nursing in Kansas, from average salaries to job search tips, we’ll help you make informed decisions about your nursing journey.
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Average Pay for Nursing Positions in Kansas
Understanding the compensation landscape is essential for career planning. Here’s a breakdown of average annual salaries for key nursing positions in Kansas:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNAs provide basic patient care under the supervision of nurses. CNAs in Kansas make anywhere from $29,091 to $41,323 per year. CNA pay can be affected by location and experience.
Certified Medical Technician (CMT)
CMTs, also known as patient care technicians, help nurses with patient care tasks. The average salary of a CMT is between $34,515 and $49,206. Like CNAs, CMT salaries are heavily influenced by experience and location.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPNs deliver basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses. The average annual salary for LPNs in Kansas is between $42,302 and $62,214. LPNs with extra certifications and experience tend to be paid more than entry-level LPNs.
Registered Nurse (RN)
RNs provide comprehensive patient care, administer medications, educate patients, and coordinate care. RNs in Kansas typically make between $54,181 and $85,893. Depending on specialization and location RNs can make a lot more money than the average.
Best Places to Work as a Nurse in Kansas
Kansas offers many different nursing opportunities, each area has its unique opportunities for nurses to explore different care settings and lifestyles.
Kansas City Metropolitan
Kansas City is the largest city in Kansas, it has a thriving healthcare scene with numerous hospitals, clinics, and medical schools. It offers a wide range of job opportunities and culture but comes with a higher cost of living. Nurses who work and live in the Kansas City metro love it because it is shared between Kansas and Missouri, so they can double their opportunities by holding a compact or multi-state license.
Wichita
Wichita is the second largest city in Kansas and offers a wide range of job opportunities for nurses. It offers a good balance between living in an urban area while also having a lower cost of living compared to Kansas City.
Topeka
Topeka is the state capital of Kansas and offers a mix of government healthcare jobs. Topeka has a lower cost of living compared to larger cities in Kansas. This affordability extends to housing, utilities, and everyday expenses, making it an attractive option for nurses looking to stretch their earnings further.
The city’s strong sense of community and relatively relaxed pace of life provide a desirable work-life balance for many nurses.
Nurse Jobs in Rural Kansas
Rural areas like Hays, KS are great opportunities for nurses who love having a sense of community. Rural healthcare is facing a staffing shortage that is affecting their ability to provide a full range of care. Because of this, there is a surplus in travel nurse jobs in Kansas. Nurses who work in Rural Kansas have an extra sense of community and can get to know their patients even better.
Nursing Education and Licensure in Kansas
Depending on what kind of nurse job you want, you’ll need to complete an education program and obtain a license or certification.
Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN) Programs
- University of Kansas Medical Center: Renowned for its research and clinical training, KU Med offers a comprehensive BSN program.
- Pittsburg State University: Known for its strong pre-licensure BSN program, with a high NCLEX pass rate.
- Emporia State University: Offers a flexible BSN program with a focus on rural healthcare.
- MidAmerica Nazarene University: This private university provides a faith-based nursing education with a strong emphasis on patient care.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Programs
Seward County Community College: Offers a flexible ADN program with online and on-campus options.
Flint Hills Technical College: Offers a practical ADN program with a focus on hands-on clinical experience.
Coffeyville Community College: Provides an affordable ADN program with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving.
Job Search Tips for Nurses in Kansas
Landing your dream nurse job requires effective job search strategies:
Networking: Networking is a great way to build relationships with other nurses who can provide insights into nurse job opportunities. A great way to expand your network is to attend industry-related events, join professional organizations, and leverage online platforms like Linkedin.
Online Job Boards: Online job boards let you look at most of nurse job postings available in your area. Job boards like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and Cascade Health Services PRN job board allow you to quickly search for open positions near you, and in new areas.
Resume and Cover Letter: Creating a compelling resume and cover letter helps set you apart from other candidates. Be sure to highlight your soft skills that help you provide better patient care.
Work-Life Balance for Kansas Nurses
Nursing is a demanding profession, but achieving a work-life balance is possible for every nurse. According to an article published by NurseJournal, Kansas ranks in the top 10 for job satisfaction among nurses. They also have lower rates of burnout compared to other states.
Even though it may rank lower for average pay in the United States, nurses who seek a good work-life balance are heading to Kansas.
It’s impossible to talk about work-life balance without mentioning PRN agencies. PRN nurse jobs are always available in Kansas. These nurse jobs allow nurses to create their own schedules. Facilities work with PRN agencies to help fill empty shifts in their schedule, and nurses are in high demand across Kansas.
PRN Nursing Opportunities in Kansas
A PRN (pro re nata) or per diem nursing job offers flexibility for nurses who desire to create their own schedules. Kansas offers a variety of PRN opportunities in various healthcare settings.
Benefits of PRN Nursing
- Flexibility: Choose when and where you work.
- Diverse Experiences: Gain exposure to different patient populations and healthcare facilities.
- Supplement Income: Increase your earnings without committing to full-time employment.
Finding PRN Jobs in Kansas
- Healthcare Facilities: Many hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities in Kansas hire PRN nurses. Check their websites or contact their human resources departments.
- Nursing Staffing Agencies: These agencies connect nurses with PRN assignments.
- Online Job Boards: Utilize online platforms like Indeed, Nurse.com, and specialized nursing job boards to search for PRN opportunities.
Tips for PRN Nurses
- Build a Strong Network: Network with other nurses to learn about available PRN positions.
- Be Flexible: Be open to different shifts, specialties, and locations.
- Maintain Updated Certifications: Ensure your nursing license and any required certifications are current.
- Effective Time Management: Manage your schedule efficiently to balance PRN work with personal commitments.
By exploring PRN nursing options, you can enjoy the benefits of flexible work while contributing to patient care in Kansas.
