- Nursing
- Nursing specialties
- Holistic nurse
Holistic nurse
A holistic nurse uses medical knowledge plus complementary, alternative and integrative methods to care for the patient as a whole.
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Required education
ADN or BSN
Varied
Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.
Out-of-hospital
Treat patients in their homes, during travel, or other non-hospital environments.
Patient-facing
Work hands-on, directly with patients.
Structured
Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.
Independent
Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.
What is the role of a holistic nurse?
You’ll focus on patient’s mind, body, spirit, emotions and environment, using expertise and intuition to help heal them and promote overall well-being.
What you’ll do as a holistic nurse
Education
You’ll teach patients and communities about wellness and preventive healthcare
Treatment
You’ll use therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage, and hypnosis, as well as nutrition advice and natural products to help your patients regain their health.
Where you’ll work as a holistic nurse
Holistic nurses work in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Birthing centers
- Private practices
- Patients’ homes
How to become a holistic nurse
Get an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Pass the NCLEX-RN.
The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.
Work as a Registered Nurse in holistic nursing for either one year (full time) or 2,000 hours (part time) over five years with at least 48 hours of continuing education within two years.
Get your Certification in Holistic Nursing from the American Holistic Nurse Certification Corporation.
You’re ready to work as a holistic nurse!
Holistic nurse career resources
Become a member of a holistic nurse organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA)
American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA)
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Home health nurse
A home health nurse cares for patients in their homes, helping them with tasks that they can’t do themselves due to injury or disease, and providing relief to family members who may be primary caregivers.