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Blog

A Career as an Infection Control Nurse

Aug 17 2022

Nurse Types / Infection Control Nurse

Bacteria and viruses thrive in healthcare environments when not closely monitored. Infection control nurses (ICNs) help identify and prevent the spread of these and other infectious diseases in a variety of healthcare settings. To work in this nursing specialty, you must possess attention to detail.

Explaining best practices for infection prevention and patient safety requires knowledge of the risks of spreading infectious agents in contained and broader environments.

In this article we will explore:

  • What do infection nurses do?
  • What are the job duties of an infection control nurse?
  • Where do infection control nurses work?
  • How do you become an infection control nurse?
  • What are the salary and job outlooks for infection control nurses?
  • FAQs

What do infection control nurses do?

Infection control nurses deal with infectious diseases such as COVID-19, influenza, bodily infections, and pneumonia. They do this by following protocols in order to help stop the outbreak or subside the ease of the spread of the infections.

Some duties include:

  • Using protocols
  • Analyzing patients
  • Intervening when necessary
  • Educating the public

What are the duties of an infection control nurse?

Infection control nurses, sometimes called infection prevention nurses, must be skilled in problem-solving and innovation. They must commit to remaining at the forefront of modern healthcare solutions to curb the spread of infectious diseases.

Lethal outbreaks and disease spread can happen in any healthcare environment. From community clinics and private physician offices to hospitals and long-term care facilities, there is always a risk from bacteria, infectious diseases, and viruses. Infection control nurses play a pivotal role in preventing outbreaks in healthcare settings and the community-at-large.

Unlike other nurses, ICNs do not serve as direct patient practitioners. Instead, they use their problem-solving skills to conduct and analyze research. Then they use what they have learned to devise new policies and procedures geared toward infection control and prevention in healthcare settings. Infection control nurses have the following job duties:

  • Conducting research and analysis on infectious diseases is how most ICN nurses spend their time. They conduct the research on their own, or use data collected by other infectious disease experts for analysis. The underlying goal is to be ready to deploy an appropriate response should a contagion or virus impact a healthcare facility or community.
  • Communicating details about relevant research to colleagues and patients and their families. Sharing findings is the most effective way to minimize the risk of infectious disease spread.
  • Educating and liaising with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institute of Health (NIH), or other relevant agencies with updates regarding potential infection threats and a recommended response protocol.

Infection control nurses serve as guides for improving proactive practices against disease spread within the healthcare setting.

Where do infection control nurses work?

Infection control nurses can work in a variety of healthcare settings since their expertise is relevant to providing quality patient outcomes by reducing the risk of disease spread. Some of the most common career paths for ICNs include:

  • Ambulatory and outpatient care centers. They can work as both general consultants and hands-on patient practitioners. Since these healthcare settings experience a lot of daily traffic, ICNs are crucial for monitoring and implementing sanitary practices that safeguard patient and community health.
  • Home and hospice care services. Research supports the idea that shorter hospital stays reduce infection rates among patients. ICNs educate patients and their caretakers on safe practices in the home environment and creating prevention plans for home use.
  • Hospitals. Maintaining best practices throughout the building is the key function of an ICN working in a hospital setting. They keep employees updated on proper sanitation practices and stay abreast of new findings that impact disease and infection control within the hospital setting.
  • Long-term care centers. Infection prevention is the number-one goal of ICNs who work in this healthcare setting. Constant adjustments to real-time data collection and analysis are necessary for ICNs serving long-term care facilities.

NURSE TIP

jami
"Not sure if an infection control nurse is the right role for you? Join Incredible Health's Nurse Community for input from RNs of all specialties."
-Jami, RN & nurse advocate @Incredible Health


How do you become an infection control nurse?

Step 1.

  • Attend an accredited nursing school to earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). An ADN will take between 18 and 24 months to complete, while you can expect to spend roughly four years in school for a BSN. There is an RN to BSN program that allows you to work while you earn your degree.

  • If you already have an ADN, there is an ADN to BSN bridge program that allows you to earn a BSN in 12-18 months. The more education you have, the better your chances of landing your dream job. It is advantageous to obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) because of the research portion of the job. There are BSN to MSN and RN-MSN bridge programs that decrease the amount of time spent in school.

Step 2. 

  • Sit for the NCLEX-RN exam so you can become a Registered Nurse (RN). The NCLEX provides questions on the following topics to test nursing candidates knowledge:
  1. Safe and effective care environments
  2. Health promotion and maintenance
  3. Psychosocial integrity
  4. Physiological integrity

Step 3.

  • Once you are a licensed RN, the next step is to gain at least two years of experience working in infection control. The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology requires this before nurses can earn their Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC). Earning this credential is the final step before you can seek employment as an infection control nurse.

What are the salary and job outlooks for infection control nurses?

A nationwide nursing shortage continues to surge, making nurses a hot commodity for the immediate future. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts demand for epidemiologists and other infection control and prevention healthcare professionals will increase by 26% between 2021-2031.

The national average salary for infection control nurses is $87,562. The average for all RN salaries is $82,750.

Infection control nurse salary by state
Alabama
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Iowa
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Massachusetts
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
North Carolina
New Jersey
New York
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
West Virginia

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FAQs

What is an infection control nurse?

Infection control nurses help identify and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

How much does an infection control nurse make?

On average infection nurses make $87,526 per year.

What education do I need to become an infection control nurse?

You can begin work with an Associate Degree in Nursing. Most employers require a higher level of education (such as a bachelor’s degree) and experience.


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  • 🏥 Assistant Nurse Manager

    Roseville, CA | $115,000 to $145,000 /year

  • 🏥 Assistant Nurse Manager – ICU

    Garfield Heights, OH | $61,790 to $98,160 /year

  • 🏥 Nurse Manager – Mother Baby

    Kingwood, TX | $70,000 to $100,000 /year

  • 🏥 Registered Nurse – CVICU

    Aventura, FL | $55,000 to $100,000 /year

  • 🏥 Registered Nurse – Women’s Health

    Richmond, VA | $55,000 to $100,000 /year

Written by Incredible Health Staff

At Incredible Health, it's a team effort to achieve our vision: Help healthcare professionals live better lives. Many are licensed practitioners themselves; others are simply passionate writers and leaders dedicated to providing valuable resources to nurses.

Read more from Incredible Health

Best Hospitals to Work for in Arkansas

Aug 16 2022

Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals Arkansas

Working in Arkansas’ healthcare industry may be a good idea because of several positive indicators, such as above-average access and affordability and high employer-sponsored insurance spending per enrollee, according to The Commonwealth Fund 2020 report. 

To help you find one of the best hospitals to work for in this state, we’ve listed some of the top hospitals in the state. All five are Magnet hospitals. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) bestows this recognition on facilities that have excelled in many organizational areas, including lower missed nursing care rates and higher nurse-perceived quality ratings.

Best Hospitals in Arkansas

The following organizations are rated as top hospitals by the ANCC, U.S. News & World Report and Medicare. Our rankings were also compiled using oth trusted sources, such as The Leapfrog Group and Healthgrades.


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Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH), the only Level I pediatric trauma center in the state, is ranked No. 1 in Arkansas and nationally ranked in seven pediatric specialties, including pediatric cancer, pediatric cardiology and heart surgery and pediatric nephrology, by U.S. News & World Report.

The facility has a Silver Level Beacon Award of Excellence from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) for its pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). 

In 2021, ACH was named one of the Best Places to Work by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. In 2020, it won the Nephrology Nursing Certification Advocacy Award from the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC) for its cohesiveness and team-based approach in pediatric dialysis.

Learn more about Arkansas Children’s Hospital:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
  • Hospital network: two facilities
  • Employees: 5,000+ (across the entire network)

Baxter Regional Medical Center

Baxter Regional Medical Center (BRMC) is rated high performing in abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, heart attack and back surgery by U.S. News & World Report.

The facility was named one of the Best Places to Work by Arkansas Business for the fourth time in 2021 and received the America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery Award from Healthgrades three years in a row. 

It was also recognized with the National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) Chest Pain Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry Achievement Award — Silver Performance from the American College of Cardiology in 2019. 

BRMC was considered a top rural hospital in the United States by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) in 2018.

The federal government gave it a three-star rating.

Learn more about Baxter Regional Medical Center:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Mountain Home, Arkansas
  • Employees: 1,700+

CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs

CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs is rated high performing in heart failure, kidney failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by U.S. News & World Report.

The hospital was named one of the 100 Top Hospitals in the United States by Fortune/Merative in 2022 and received the Vascular Surgery Excellence Award from Healthgrades two years in a row.

It has an “A” grade from The Leapfrog Group for its hospital safety. 

The federal government gave it a four-star rating.

Learn more about CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas
  • Hospital network: four facilities 
  • Employees: 5,500+ (across the entire network)

CHI St. Vincent Infirmary

CHI St. Vincent Infirmary is rated high performing in colon cancer surgery, heart attack, heart failure and colon cancer surgery by U.S. News & World Report.

The hospital was named one of the 15 Top Health Systems by Fortune/Merative in 2022. It also received the NCDR Chest Pain Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry Achievement Award — Platinum Performance from the American College of Cardiology the same year.

Learn more about CHI St. Vincent Infirmary:

  • Administration: nonprofit
  • Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
  • Hospital network: four facilities 
  • Employees: 5,500+ (across the entire network)

Conway Regional Medical Center

Conway Regional Medical Center is rated high performing in kidney failure by U.S. News & Word Report. 

The hospital was named one of the Best Places to Work by Modern Healthcare in 2021 and a Best-in-Class Employer by Gallagher the same year. It is also certified as a Great Place to Work. It received the Outstanding Patient Experience Award two years in a row from Healthgrades.

Learn more about Conway Regional Medical Center:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Conway, Arkansas
  • Employees: 1,708

What makes a best hospital in Arkansas

Check out some factors that set these five Magnet hospitals apart from other health organizations in Arkansas.

Benefits

Besides salary, in Arkansas, you can find employers offering useful benefits, including health insurance, wellness programs and discounts.

Growth opportunity

Another factor in common among the above-listed hospitals is the possibility of working as a specialist and having more career opportunities, such as becoming a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or a nurse practitioner (NP).

Employee satisfaction

According to a Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) study, worker engagement strategies — like flexible benefits and a competitive salary — boost treatment effectiveness and reduce the level of hospital-acquired infections. Satisfied nurses are also less likely to experience job fatigue and burnout, two prevalent health problems nowadays.

High patient satisfaction

Ensuring patient satisfaction is important for top-performing hospitals and it’s not difficult to achieve it. You can take advantage of well-established communication processes, cleanliness of the hospital environment and discharge information, for instance.

Other factors that make a top hospital

Commitment to safety records, a customer-centric approach and ethics also contribute to the success of a hospital. Keep reading to find out how. 

Safety record is critical

Hospital safety can be assured by the use of treatment guidelines or an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) — the patient’s medical and treatment history in a digital version. Both are healthcare records that avoid medical errors. 

Hospital policies focus on customer services 

There are easy ways to implement a customer service-oriented approach as a nurse and the best hospitals appreciate it. Transform the patient experience by apologizing if you’re late and making an effort to always remember the names of your frequent patients. 

Latest technology and training improve healthcare

From online appointments to advanced tools — such as digital scanners, virtual reality and smartwatches —  technology works more and more to improve patient care. By using portable and functional devices, healthcare costs are reduced.

Ethics lead the way

As the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated, in certain situations, the number of patients can exceed the hospital’s capacity. There will always be challenging situations in hospitals like this, and healthcare professionals need to be able to make the right decisions based on strong values and ethics.

Next steps

Getting hired by one of the above-listed Arkansas hospitals may be one of your biggest achievements, whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced nurse.

Continue reading to discover the most efficient strategies to start working in the best hospitals as a nurse.

Build your resume

When you write a resume, if you’re a registered nurse (RN), your license has to be in the title of the document. Follow our nursing resume guide and put yourself one step ahead of the competition.

Join a nurses association

To increase your chances of landing your dream job, join a nursing organization, where you may have mentoring and networking opportunities. As an alternative, you can join a nursing union, where it is possible to help improve working conditions.


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Attend industry educational conferences and workshops

Taking part in nursing conferences is another beneficial initiative to be competitive in the labor market. Also, check our advice on working in Arkansas and learn about more opportunities, such as workshops and health courses.

Keep up with continuing education requirements

One of the education requirements in Arkansas, whether you’re a RN, a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), is having 15 contact hours every two years with Continuing Education Units (CEU) courses.

We offer free Arkansas CEU courses. Learn online and stay up to date in the comfort of your home.

Search for job openings

Search for a job in a smart way with Incredible Health. We match your goals, experience and preferences to the best employers and you can get hired in under 20 days on average.

Transfer your nursing license to Arkansas

If you’re not from Arkansas, it’s important to know that it’s a compact state. You’ll have to follow some procedures while transferring your nursing license. Learn everything you need to know with our guide.

Sources
  • “2020 Scorecard on State Health System Performance”. 2020scorecard.commonwealthfund.org. Accessed July 24, 2022.
  • “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed July 24, 2022.
  • Hospitals – State Directory. healthgrades.com. Accessed July 24, 2022.
  • Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. hospitalsafetygrade.org. Accessed July 24, 2022.
  • Medicare. medicare.gov. Accessed July 24, 2022.
  • “Safer Care Victoria & VMIA research report”. vmia.vic.gov.au. Accessed July 24, 2022.
  • “U.S. News Best Hospitals.” health.usnews.com. Accessed July 24, 2022.
Written by Incredible Health Staff

At Incredible Health, it's a team effort to achieve our vision: Help healthcare professionals live better lives. Many are licensed practitioners themselves; others are simply passionate writers and leaders dedicated to providing valuable resources to nurses.

Read more from Incredible Health

Connecticut and New York Announce Efforts to Expand Nursing Workforce

Aug 16 2022

Responding to a critical shortage within their health care workforce, the governors of Connecticut and New York have announced initiatives designed to attract new students and expand the ability to prepare them for service.

Each of the two states has taken a slightly different approach. The state of New York is prioritizing economic needs. Its Nurses for Our Future program hopes to expand the state’s number of nurses by offering full tuition to scholarship winners enrolled in both Associate Degree in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs. Connecticut’s CT Health Horizons”program will address the shortage of both nurses and behavioral health providers through a combination of tuition assistance, recruitment and retention of faculty, and innovative job placement partnerships.


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Two initiatives with the same end goal

Both Connecticut and New York are facing significant shortages in healthcare workers. New York currently has more than 9,300 openings for registered nurses in the state, while a 2020 report by Connecticut’s Governor’s Workforce Council reported that 52% of the state’s registered nurses are over the age of 50 and that there would be a need for 3,000 new RNs per year, while Connecticut’s schools only have the capacity to graduate 1,900 per year. Each state has taken its own approach to the dilemma.

In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced the winners of the Nurses for Our Future Scholarship Program. The program was introduced in December of 2021, inviting people to apply for 1,000 scholarships for the State University of New York and the City University of New York. These scholarships will  cover four full-time semesters of tuition for flexible part-time or full-time students to become nurses.The 1,000 winners were New York State licensed nurses with Associate’s degrees, New York State residents seeking ADN degrees, and out-of-state licensed nurses who will relocate and practice in New York State to earn a BSN. To win the scholarship, participants completed an online entry.

In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont announced a three-year program that will similarly address the state’s critical healthcare workforce shortage. CT Health Horizons will take a three-pronged approach. It will 1) provide tuition assistance to attract low-income and minority students to accelerated nursing and social work programs, 2) recruit new faculty and incentivize the retention of existing faculty in order to train and educate a greater number of nurses, and 3) create pathways between nursing schools and employers to promote greater hiring of graduates. The Connecticut program represents a partnership between Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU), the Office of Workforce Strategy (OWS), multiple state agencies, the University of Connecticut (UConn), the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges (CCIC), and the Connecticut Hospital Association. It is being funded through  the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

Lawmakers, workforce advocates, and healthcare administrators express optimism for programs

The need for more skilled nurses is critical to meeting current and future needs, and the governors of both states expressed enthusiasm for the new programs. In announcing the 1,000 scholarship winners, Governor Hochul said, “This scholarship will go a long way in strengthening the workforce with individuals who are ready to begin their education and training.” Her optimism was echoed by Assembly member Deborah J. Glick, who said, “I’m excited for this first cohort of Nurses for Our Future scholars to receive an exceptional and tuition-free education at our SUNY and CUNY schools, and I wish them every success as they prepare to care for New Yorkers in the future.”

The President of the New York State Nurses Association, President Nancy Hagans, RN, BSN, CCRN, made it plain that investing in attracting and training nurses would have a direct impact on the quality of care, saying, “The Nurses for Our Future Scholarship program will help attract and train more nurses to help New York’s health care facilities staff more safely. Investing in the nursing workforce now is one part of the solution to deliver quality care for all New Yorkers into the future.”

Because Connecticut faces the challenge of a shortfall in the capacity to educate more nurses, a significant portion of the state’s investment will be concentrated on increasing the educational supply. Governor Lamont explained, “By making this investment, we are taking a critical step toward expanding the number of nursing seats at our public and private institutions of higher education.” The Connecticut program aims to provide financial assistance to 1,200 incoming nursing and social work students, and particularly to those entering AND, Accelerated BSN, and MSW programs. At the same time, by retaining and adding more faculty, it is hoped that Connecticut schools will be able to accept 1,000 more students each year. 


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Sources
  • “Connecticut Faces ‘Unprecedented’ Nursing Shortage, National Trend.” CT Examiner. Accessed August 13, 2022.
  • “FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠Harris Administration to Invest $7 Billion from American Rescue Plan to Hire and Train Public Health Workers in Response to COVID-⁠19.” Whitehouse.gov. Accessed August 13, 2022.
  • “Governor Hochul Announces Nearly 1,000 New Future Nurses as Part of Ongoing Efforts to Strengthen and Bolster New York State Health Care Workforce.” New York State. Accessed August 13, 2022.
  •  “Governor Lamont Announces Launch of Higher Education Program To Increase Opportunities for Aspiring Nurses and Social Workers.” Connecticut’s Official State Website. Accessed August 13, 2022.
  • “Nurses For Our Future Scholarships will fund the education of 1,000 new nurses in New York.” New York State Public Employees Federation. Accessed August 13, 2022.
Written by James Yoo

James serves as Incredible Health's content manager. He's always loved stories, no matter the medium. He learned his craft as a newspaper reporter and from reading the likes of Joseph Mitchell and John McPhee. He stepped away to join the family business in retail before returning to writing and editing as a content marketer. He has an MA in journalism from Syracuse University and a BA in history from the University of Pennsylvania. (edited)

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Best Hospitals to Work for in Hawaii

Aug 15 2022

Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals Hawaii

White sand beaches, turquoise waves, palm trees swaying in the breeze, an amazing career… if you want to look for employment at top hospitals in a beautiful new environment, make sure to check out Hawaii. 

The following hospitals are dedicated to providing quality care and service to their staff and patients, making them desirable places to work. These institutions have received awards and recognition for their commitment to healthcare.

Here are some of the best hospitals in Hawaii that are exceptional choices for nurses looking for new employment.

Best hospitals in Hawaii

The following list of top hospitals has been graded using websites such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center, U.S. News & World Report, and Medicare. Feedback from other trusted employment websites, including Glassdoor and LinkedIn, have also been used to rate these rankings.


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Adventist Health Castle

This institution has been serving O‘ahu since 1963 and has expanded throughout the years. Adventist Health Castle is rated as high-performing in 5 adult procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has given this hospital 4 out of 5 stars. Adventist has also been honored with the 2017 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award.

Learn more about Adventist Health Castle:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Kailua, HI
  • Hospital network: 24 locations
  • Employees: 1,000

Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center

Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center first opened its doors in 1958 and has been dedicated to state-of-the-art service ever since. It is rated as high-performing in 1 adult specialty and 6 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. It has received 5 out of 5 stars from the federal government. This hospital has also been named one of America’s Best Stroke Centers by the Women’s Choice Award®.

Learn more about Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Honolulu, HI
  • Hospital network: 20 locations
  • Employees: 4,400

Maui Memorial Medical Center

For over 25 years, Maui Memorial Medical Center has been focused on lifesaving practices for Maui residents. This hospital is rated as high-performing in 4 adult procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has awarded it 3 out of 5 stars. This institution has also earned the highly-distinguished Gold Plus Quality Achievement Awards from American Heart Association and American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® program.

Learn more about Maui Memorial Medical Center:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Wailuku, HI
  • Hospital network: 5 locations
  • Employees: 1,300

North Hawaii Community Hospital

As part of the Queen’s brand, this hospital opened in 1987 and has been serving patients in Waimea (Kamuela) since. North Hawaii Community Hospital is rated as high-performing in 3 adult procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. It has received 5 out of 5 stars from the federal government. This hospital was also selected by HomeCare Elite® Top Agency as one of the top Medicare-certified home health agencies in the U.S.

Learn more about North Hawaii Community Hospital:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Kamuela, HI
  • Hospital network: 1 location
  • Employees: 385

The Queen’s Medical Center

This hospital’s history is rich, stemming from the late 1800s when Queen Emma and King Kamehameha IV founded this healthcare facility to combat the epidemics plaguing O‘ahu. As a Magnet hospital, Queen’s Medical is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for its quality patient outcomes and staff satisfaction. Regionally ranked number 1 in Hawaii and number 1 in Honolulu, this medical center is also nationally ranked in 1 adult specialty, and rated as high-performing in 6 adult specialties and 11 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. It has been given the honorable 5 out of 5 stars from the federal government. This hospital was also listed on the Newsweek Best Hospitals in 2021.

Learn more about The Queen’s Medical Center:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Honolulu, HI
  • Hospital network: 4 hospitals and more than 70 preventive specialty healthcare locations and labs
  • Employees: 10,000

What makes a best hospital in Hawaii

The best hospitals in Hawaii have more than awards and recognition to speak to their quality. Top hospitals offer impressive benefits, growth opportunities, and satisfaction aimed at both staff and patients.

Benefits

When employers offer benefits along with competitive salaries, this attracts potential employees. Benefits can include vacation time, sick leave, discounts, financial assistance for homebuyers, tuition assistance, wellness programs, and much more.  

Growth opportunity

Having the option to progress in the healthcare field is one reason nurses continue their education. This allows an advancement in salary and duties, creating great opportunities for growth. Many choose to become nurse anesthetists (CRNA) or nurse practitioners.

Employee satisfaction

Employers that provide  positive environments end up with  higher employee satisfaction. This is attractive to nurses seeking employment. Plus, this type of positive work space decreases job fatigue and burnout.

High patient satisfaction 

When healthcare employees are satisfied, patients likely are, too. Positive work environments foster a welcoming atmosphere for patients as they recover and heal. Patient satisfaction is an important factor for nurses on the job search.

Other factors that make a top hospital 

There are other areas to consider for top hospitals, such as their safety records, customer service-focused policies, advancement and training in technology, and ethical standards.

Safety record is critical

Hospitals dedicated to safety practices demonstrate a level of care and quality. A commitment to cleanliness can reduce transmission of other infections, which is a common safety concern in healthcare facilities.

When hospitals focus on safety procedures that their nurses, doctors, and other staff carry out, this creates a more hospitable environment devoted to patient wellness. This sets a standard for top hospitals.


Hospital policies focus on customer services 

Since healthcare is a customer service-based industry, hospitals that show greater  concern for their patients tend to be  of a higher status. Promotion of customer-centric policies make hospitals in Hawaii more sought after.

Latest technology and training improve healthcare

Hospitals that implement and train their staff on the newest technology show a care for progress and advanced practices, such as diagnosis and treatment. These standards of care are crucial for developing new skills, especially in cases of emergency. The top hospitals in Hawaii dedicate themselves to staying updated on technological trends.

Ethics lead the way

A commitment to ethics in a hospital setting is important. Institutions with merit and value are more focused on patient care, regardless of background, culture, or personality. This creates a better connection and loyalty to providing accurate healthcare of a high standard.

Next steps

Regardless of if  you’re a recent graduate or a more experienced nurse, finding the right job in one of Hawaii’s top hospitals can boost your skills and career goals.

While it can be daunting to look for a job without the proper strategies, Incredible Health has  easy guides on landing your dream job in one of the top hospitals in Hawaii.

Build your resume

When you personalize your resume for the hospital and job you want, it increases your odds of standing out among the other candidates. Showcase your skills, knowledge, and accredited certifications that speak to your quality of work, and find solid references to back up your experience.

Join a nurses association

Connect with other nurses to gain access to networking and job opportunities. There are nurses associations and organizations great for this type of connection. If your state has a nurses union, you should consider the pros and cons of joining.


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Attend industry educational conferences and workshops. 

Healthcare is a rapidly-changing industry, and it’s important to stay on top of relevant skills, technologies, and techniques. To better stand out on the job search, attend educational conferences and workshops to hone these credentials. You can even ask for advice from nursing professionals at these events.

Keep up with continuing education requirements

Continuing your education requires that you know what different states’ education guidelines are. Incredible Health can offer you free CEU courses by state, including Hawaii. Sign up now to create your profile and access them.

Search for job openings

Many resources are out there to guide you to nursing openings at the top hospitals listed above or elsewhere in Hawaii, including our platform. Want to learn more? Create a profile and have hospitals apply to you!

Transfer your nursing license to Hawaii

If you want to transfer to Hawaii from out of state, knowing your options is key. Coming from a compact state to another compact state has a much easier process. For noncompact states, however, there is another set of requirements. Here is a guide on the process to help.

Sources
  • “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed July 19, 2022.
  • Glassdoor. glassdoor.com Accessed July 19, 2022.
  • Medicare. medicare.gov Accessed July 19, 2022.
  • Baldrige National Quality Award adventisthealth.org Accessed July 19, 2022.
  • America’s Best Stroke Centers – Kaiser Permanente kaiserpermanente.org Accessed July 19, 2022.
  • Maui Memorial News – Awards mauinow.com Accessed July 19, 2022.
  • Awards and Recognitions queens.org Accessed July 19, 2022.
Written by Incredible Health Staff

At Incredible Health, it's a team effort to achieve our vision: Help healthcare professionals live better lives. Many are licensed practitioners themselves; others are simply passionate writers and leaders dedicated to providing valuable resources to nurses.

Read more from Incredible Health

Best Hospitals to Work for in New Hampshire

Aug 15 2022

Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a haven for the outdoorsy type: it offers mountainous views, abundant wildlife, vast stretches of wilderness, and a passion for winter sports.  With its impressive healthcare facilities, nurses often look to this state for employment. 

The hospitals listed below have demonstrated a commitment to quality and service, while providing their staff positive environments in which to thrive. These top places to work have also been awarded with honors and accolades for their excellence.

Here are some top hospitals in New Hampshire dedicated to superior healthcare.

Best hospitals in New Hampshire 

The following list of top hospitals has been ranked using websites such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center, U.S. News & World Report, and Medicare. Feedback from other trusted employment websites, including Glassdoor and LinkedIn, have also been used to compile this list.


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Concord Hospital

With humble beginnings in the late 1800s, Concord Hospital has grown exponentially in the years since. Regionally ranked number 2 in New Hampshire, this hospital is also rated as high-performing in 6 adult procedures and conditions by U.S. News & World Report. It has been awarded 5 out of 5 stars from the federal government, and has received the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON) 2021 Orthopaedic Nursing Excellence (ONE) Award.

Learn more about Concord Hospital:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Concord, NH
  • Hospital network: 35 locations
  • Employees: 2,781

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

As part of Dartmouth College’s expansion, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center has been servicing Lebanon and surrounding areas for many years. Regionally ranked number 1 in New Hampshire, this institution is rated as high-performing in 11 adult procedures and conditions by U.S. News & World Report. Dartmouth Hitchcock has also received an “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, and it was named a Best-in-State Employer by Forbes.

Learn more about Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Lebanon, NH
  • Hospital network: 5 locations
  • Employees: 8,000

Exeter Hospital

Though Exeter Hospital started out of a small cottage in 1897, in the years since it has grown considerably in size and stature. The federal government has awarded this hospital 4 out of 5 stars. It is a recipient of the  Beacon Award for Excellence, as given by The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. This facility has also been given the Mission Lifeline award from the American Heart Association.

Learn more about Exeter Hospital:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Exeter, NH
  • Hospital network: 12 locations
  • Employees: 2,400

Southern New Hampshire Medical Center

Southern New Hampshire Medical Center offers the resources of a regional medical center, but with the personal touch of a traditional community hospital. This hospital has been rated as high-performing in 1 adult procedure and condition by U.S. News & World Report. It has received the DNV GL Healthcare Accreditation. Parenting NH’s Family Favorites named it the Favorite Hospital or Medical Center in 2020.

Learn more about Southern New Hampshire Medical Center:

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Nashua, NH
  • Hospital network: 50 locations
  • Employees: 1,858

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital

Servicing the Seacoast area of Dover, Wentworth-Douglass Hospital is rated as high-performing in 5 adult procedures and conditions by U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has given this institution 5 out of 5 stars. It has also placed in the top 200 of the “World’s Best Hospitals” as ranked by Newsweek in 2022.

Learn more about Wentworth-Douglass Hospital

  • Administration: nonprofit 
  • Location: Dover, NH
  • Hospital network: 1 location
  • Employees: 3,500

What makes a best hospital in New Hampshire

Top hospitals in New Hampshire offer more than awards and accreditations. Their impressive benefits, growth opportunities, and high employee and patient satisfaction rates make them preferable for nurses seeking employment.

Benefits

Employers that offer worthwhile benefits on top of a competitive salary tend to attract potential employees. This can include vacation, sick leave, discounts, financial assistance for homebuyers, tuition assistance, wellness programs, and more.

Growth opportunity

Opportunities for growth are enticing for nurses, and the chance to advance in the healthcare field is why many pursue further education. This can include higher salary and more responsibility as a nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or nurse practitioner.

Employee satisfaction

Employee satisfaction in healthcare is important. Employers with higher satisfaction rates typically have more positive working environments for nurses. This decreases the chances of on-the-job issues such as job fatigue and burnout.

High patient satisfaction 

When employees are satisfied, patients usually are, as well. Having a great working environment promotes happier employees, who then help to improve the welfare of patients. Supporting patient satisfaction in a healthcare setting is imperative.

Other factors that make a top hospital 

Other ways hospitals demonstrate their prestige is by adhering to safety records, customer service policies, new technology practices, and ethical standards.

Safety record is critical

Following the right safety protocols in a hospital is necessary. When hospitals and their staff are dedicated to safety, cleanliness, and quality, they are ensuring a hospitable environment for patients and healthcare professionals. 

Without the proper tools or procedures in place, transmission of infections could be much higher and  emergency situations could be dangerous. Hospitals that put these safety standards in place are considered the best.


Hospital policies focus on customer services 

Hospitals are in the customer service business, so it’s important they have policies in place to protect patients. When these facilities focus on customer-centric management and guidelines, these places are more highly sought after for patients and potential employees.

Latest technology and training improve healthcare

Technology is a crucial tool in the healthcare industry, and with continued advancements, the latest training can help hospitals meet higher standards of care. The top hospitals in New Hampshire aim to provide improved diagnoses and treatments for patients by using up-to-date technology.

Ethics lead the way

By having ethics guide their profession, healthcare workers are better able to service their patients, regardless of background or culture. Hospitals with an ethical standard promote quality and value.

Next steps

Finding work at one of the top hospitals in New Hampshire as either an experienced nurse or a recent graduate can help to elevate your skills and career goals.

Searching without the right strategies can be daunting, but Incredible Health has easy guides on how to land your dream job at one of New Hampshire’s top hospitals.

Build your resume

In order to better stand out among the other job candidates, you should personalize your resume for the hospital and particular job you want. Identify your skills, knowledge, and relevant certifications so you can set yourself apart from others in the field. Make sure you also have solid references who can speak to your work experience and quality.

Join a nurses association

Joining a nurses organization can help you to gain access to networking and job opportunities with others in the industry. If you’re interested in your state’s nurses union, consider the pros and cons of joining.


Get job matches in your area + answers to all your nursing career questions

Let's get started

What's your current role?

Staff nurse
Manager
Other

Attend industry educational conferences and workshops. 

While the healthcare system is rapidly advancing, it’s important to stay in-the-know when relevant skills, techniques, and technology. These will help you to stand out on the job search. Attending nursing conferences and asking for advice from other professionals will keep you well-informed.

Keep up with continuing education requirements

Continuing your education requires knowing what each state’s guidelines are, since they can differ. Knowing what New Hampshire’s requirements are will help if you’re looking to take more courses. Incredible Health offers free CEU courses, so sign up now for a profile to access them.

Search for job openings

There are many resources to help guide you to openings at the hospitals listed above, or elsewhere, in New Hampshire. Our platform is one of them. If you’re interested in searching for nursing jobs, create a profile and have hospitals apply to you!

Transfer your nursing license to New Hampshire

If you’ve transferring from out of state and want to work in New Hampshire, it’s key to learn your options. Are you coming from a compact state and moving to another compact state? This process allows you to more easily transfer your license. However, noncompact states have different guidelines. Read this guide on the whole process.

Sources
  • “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • Glassdoor. glassdoor.com Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • Medicare. medicare.gov Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • 2021 Orthopaedic Nursing Excellence (ONE) Award concordhospital.org Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade hospitalsafetygrade.org Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • America’s Best Employers forbes.com Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • Beacon Award for Excellence aacn.org Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • Mission Lifeline award exterhospital.com Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • DNV GL Healthcare Accreditation dnvglheathcare.com Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • Awards and Accreditations snhhealth.org Accessed July 21, 2022.
  • World’s Best Hospitals wdhospital.org Accessed July 21, 2022.

Top New Hampshire RN jobs on Incredible Health

    Written by Incredible Health Staff

    At Incredible Health, it's a team effort to achieve our vision: Help healthcare professionals live better lives. Many are licensed practitioners themselves; others are simply passionate writers and leaders dedicated to providing valuable resources to nurses.

    Read more from Incredible Health
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