Rehabilitation Nurse
What is a rehabilitation nurse?
The rehabilitation nurse is a nurse who specializes in assisting persons with disabilities and chronic illness to attain optimal function, health, and adapt to an altered lifestyle. Rehabilitation nurses assist patients in their move toward independence by setting realistic goals and treatment plans. They work as part of a multidisciplinary team and often coordinate patient care and team activities.
Rehabilitation nurses may practice in a variety of settings, including the following:
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hospitals
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inpatient rehabilitation centers
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outpatient rehabilitation centers
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long-term care facilities
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community and home health settings
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insurance companies
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private practice
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schools
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industrial health centers
Rehabilitation nurses provide care that helps to restore and maintain function, and prevent complications. They also provide patient and family education, counseling, and case management. Rehabilitation nurses serve as patient and family advocates and also participate in research that helps improve the practice of rehabilitation.
Registered nurses who specialize in rehabilitation are often certified by the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses.
Online Editor:
Andrew Bailey RN BSN M.Ed.
Online Editor:
Sara Foster RN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer:
Daphne Pierce-Smith MSN FNP RN CCRC
Online Medical Reviewer:
Joy Fincannon RN MN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Kelley Gaskin RN MN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Louise Akin RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Nancy Bowers RN MPH RN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer:
Sara Foster RN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer:
Lee Jenkins
Date Last Reviewed:
3/31/2009
Date Last Modified:
2/25/2008