resume career objective nursing graduate

How to Write a Nursing Resume Objective for a New Graduate with Examples

A well-written resume objective can expand and improve your job prospects as a recent nursing graduate. Reviewing your accomplishments to discover what you can contribute to a work environment can better prepare you to write your resume objective and other application materials. This article will define nursing resume objectives and provide numerous objective examples to give you a clear idea of what a good objective looks like for a new graduate.

What is a resume objective?

A resume objective is a short explanation of your skills and career goals as they relate to the job you’re applying for. You usually add a resume objective right below your contact information so it’s one of the first things an employer sees. This statement is your chance to impress an employer and provide an overview of what qualifies you to join their nursing staff. 

A good resume objective should concisely outline the following: 

• Your professional goals
• The nursing skills and abilities you bring to the position 
• Your degrees and professional certifications

This statement should be no more than three sentences. It should make an impact so the hiring manager is compelled to read the rest of your resume. 

Resume objective examples for nursing graduates 

Here are some examples of nursing resume objectives for new graduates:

‘Enthusiastic and dedicated nursing graduate with a calm disposition, crisis management skills and extensive clinical hours in an urgent care setting. Empathetic patient advocate who increased patient adherence to therapy protocols by 25% over a three-month period. Seeking an entry-level position as a staff nurse at Boulder Hospital to assist with increasing quality of care.’

This objective is effective because it includes information relevant to the specific position, including accomplishments and skills that align with the profession. This objective also includes relevant keywords in order to be recognized by applicant tracking systems (ATS).

‘Patient-focused, empathic Registered Nurse pursuing a role as part of a growing medical practice. Bringing expertise and thorough knowledge of treatment to help change patients’ lives.’

This objective includes necessary elements such as the specific job title, certification and desired role.

‘Hard-working, compassionate recent nursing school graduate seeking a role as a rural nurse. Experience working in high-stress situations in emergency rooms and other clinical settings.’

The mention of a specific job title, specific goal and situational experience make this objective concise and easy to read.

‘Attentive, compassionate Registered Nurse with a comprehensive education seeking opportunity to work with children with special needs. Substantial administrative skills and thorough sense of detail perfect for a nursing management position.’

This objective shows the range of skills possessed by the individual and specific job goals which will make it stand out to employers.

‘Recently graduated Nurse pursuing a position on the staff of a medical clinic dedicated to public access to healthcare. Detail-oriented and caring, with a desire to encourage a positive atmosphere for patients of all ages and needs.’

This objective is direct in the position desired and demonstrates a goal to create a positive work environment.

‘Recent nursing graduate seeking an opportunity to mentor nursing students while offering quality healthcare in a large teaching hospital. Skills include a high level of professionalism in stressful situations and a comforting bedside manner.’

This graduate creates a two-sentence objective by delivering a concise statement that includes the job characteristics desired, skills offered and type of facility sought. 

‘Nursing graduate and licensed RN seeking a role in which acquired and innate caregiving skills can be used to improve the health and lives of medically-vulnerable individuals seeking treatment in a clinical setting.’

Immediately presenting obtained licensure and a straightforward statement make this objective easy to skim and sets the tone for a more in-depth resume.

‘Attentive ACLS-certified nursing graduate with a positive disposition, seeking a role as a Registered Nurse in a large inner-city hospital setting. Skills include flexibility, attention to detail and a genuine desire to nurture patients and assist doctors in their care.’

Leading with certifications, clearly stating the role sought and stating top skills make this concise objective informative and easy to read quickly.

‘Motivated recent nursing graduate interested in an entry-level nursing position at a medium-sized hospital. Offers special skills in surgical assistance and post-operative patient care as well as experience in pharmaceutical oncology. Top skills include efficiency, attentiveness and an analytical approach to health problems.’

This objective is especially detailed but still easy to read.

‘Nursing graduate seeking an entry-level role at a local healthcare center. Specialized training includes cardiac care, intravenous infusion and dialysis, and skills include building rapport and trust with patients and a willingness to continue learning.’

This graduate concisely explains what level of employment they’re looking for, where they want to work and what they’re specially trained in, which includes important keywords that make the statement stand out to ATS.

‘Dedicated nursing graduate seeking a role as a Registered Nurse for a state hospital. Special knowledge and expertise include critical care, oncology and emergency room care.’

This objective offers special training, specified role and desired workplace, all of which will allow the resume to be recognized by ATS and easily read by hiring managers.

‘Motivated nursing graduate seeking an opportunity to leverage skills in compassionate patient care, critical thinking and continuous learning in an entry-level nursing role at a clinic serving low-income community members.’

The skills in this objective are clear and relevant, and the role and place of work desired are concisely stated. Paired with relevant keywords, this objective will help this resume get attention from employers. 

‘Recent nursing school graduate seeking a full-time position on a busy hospital nursing staff where I can offer my compassionate care and varied clinical skills to help the hospital maintain and increase quality and efficiency levels of patient care.’

This objective manages to concisely state how hiring this person will not only fulfill the applicant’s needs but also how they’ll add value to the facility using their specific skills.

‘New nursing graduate seeking to offer compassionate care, communication and technical skills in a healthcare facility serving the elderly. Experience includes the successful completion of a one-year internship at a hospice care facility and multiple job-shadowing opportunities with established nurses and other medical professionals.’  

Since technology is constantly evolving, mentioning the skills related to technological advancements as well as compassion are likely to get an employer’s interest.

100+ Nursing Resume Objective Examples + How To Write

Whether you are a new nurse graduate or a nurse with years of experience, applying for a new nursing job can feel a little overwhelming. One of the most important things you can do is prepare a great resume. If you plan to create a resume, you may have wondered, “What are some great nursing resume objective examples?” Nursing resume objectives are important parts of resumes. In this article, I will share 100+ great nursing resume objective examples + how to write them.

What Exactly Is A Nursing Resume Objective?

When should you include an objective on your nursing resume, 5 reasons why a great nursing resume objective makes a difference.

1. A great nursing resume objective gives nurses the opportunity to make a good first impression. 2. A well-written objective on a nursing resume helps demonstrate your written communication skills, which are vital for nursing success. 3. A nursing resume objective can show prospective employers how you have cultivated your career. 4. Resume objectives are an excellent way to briefly showcase your experience. 5. Great Nursing resume objectives offer excellent opportunities to show confidence in your knowledge and skills.

How To Write A Great Nursing Resume Objective?

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How to Write a Nursing Resume Objective (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

When you’re trying to land a nursing job , a nursing resume objective can be a powerful tool in your application arsenal. Standing out from the crowd is essential. Otherwise, you might miss out on your perfect opportunity.

Alright, we know you’re wondering, why do you need to stand out when demand for nurses is so high? After all, the need for registered nurses alone is going up by 12 percent between 2018 and 2028, creating a shocking 371,500 new opportunities. If companies need that many nurses, is going the extra mile necessary?

While it may seem like any nurse can just waltz in off the street and get a job, that isn’t the case. You still need to showcase yourself as a great candidate. If you don’t, even a nurse can struggle to find a job.

How can a nursing resume objective make a difference? Let’s take a look.

What Is a Resume Objective?

Alright, let’s address the elephant in the room. Yes, many people think that a resume objective is a bit antiquated. If you mention that you use one, your friends, family, or colleagues may sprain their eyes from rolling them so hard.

But, the trick is, when you use a nursing resume objective right, it can work in your favor. It lets you show the hiring manager what you bring to the table. Plus, it can answer questions a traditional resume doesn’t answer.

So, what exactly is a resume objective ? In the simplest terms, it’s a brief overview of your career and accompanying goals.

Usually, a standout statement includes details about how you enjoy applying relevant skills, as well as how you intend to use them if hired. If you’d like to learn more, we’ve covered it in-depth before. But, that’s the gist of what a resume objective is all about.

What is Unique About a Nursing Resume Objective?

In most cases, nursing resumes have a lot in common. Usually, each applicant brings something very similar to the table. Their education and certifications could be near identical. The nature of their work experience might be closely aligned.

This happens because nursing is incredibly technical. The requirements for a role are often ridiculously rigid. That means every person you are up against more or less looks like you on paper. If you don’t find a way to stand out, your resume might get lost in the pack.

That’s what can make a nursing resume objective so unique. It gives you a chance to do something extra, as long as you approach it the right way.

The most critical thing to understand is when to use one. Generally, a nursing resume objective is a smart addition if you are a recent graduate looking for their first nursing job, transitioning from another job into this kind of nursing role, or have a specific role target in mind. In those cases, this statement lets you highlight relevant skills or achievements as well as assert why this opportunity caught your eye.

If you already have nursing experience in a similar position, then you might want to go a different route. The resume summary statement may be a better choice for you, so see what that’s all about and choose the approach that’s the best match.

Common Mistakes When Writing a Nursing Resume Objective

As with all parts of a resume, nursing resume objective mistakes are pervasive. Many people misunderstand how to use these statements effectively, and that costs them opportunities.

You don’t want to end up in that boat, right? Didn’t think so. Luckily, we have your back.

First and foremost, whatever you do, don’t say that you “want the job.” You applied, so that’s already clear. It’s a nothing statement that provides zero value to the hiring manager.

Another common misstep is a lack of specifics. You want an objective to align with the role you want to land. If it’s so generic it could apply to any nursing position (or be true from any nurse), you’re missing the mark.

3 Tips for Writing a Nursing Resume Objective

If your goal is to create a winning nursing resume objective, here are three tips that can help you do just that:

1. Explain How You Want to Use Your Skills

Since a resume objective involves discussing your goals (and you don’t want to say that your goal is to get the job), then your best bet is to explain how you want to apply your skills to the role. For example, stating that you want to utilize your expertise “to enhance patient care at ABC clinic” could work, suggesting that it is one of your goals.

2. Be Specific to Highlight Your Value

When you create a nursing objective statement, be as specific as possible. Highlight individual skills , accomplishments , and goals that are highly relevant to the role . That ensures you showcase your value, which can make a significant difference.

3. Don’t Go Overboard

Your nursing resume objective shouldn’t be a massive wall of text. Ideally, you want to keep it to four sentences or less. If you don’t, there’s a decent chance it is unfocused or unrefined. That’s an immediate turnoff for hiring managers. Ultimately, brevity is your friend, so embrace it.

3 Nursing Resume Objective Examples

Okay, you have a solid understanding of how to create a standout objective. Would you like to see exactly what the end results can look like? Yeah, thought so. For your enjoyment, here are three examples, with one each focused on registered nurses , nurse practitioners , and licensed practical nurses.

1. Registered Nurse

“Recent RN graduate with well-developed interpersonal skills and strong fundamentals seeking to bring acquired knowledge into a fast-paced, patient-oriented environment. Proven ability to thrive under deadlines while remaining professional, upbeat, and empathetic. Open-minded, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.”

2. Nurse Practitioner

“Nurse practitioner with 3+ years of experience and proven record of thriving in a results-oriented environment. Advanced knowledge of medical techniques and a long-standing history of performing routine nursing services of the utmost quality. Empathetic and patient-focused, consistently striving to provide the highest level of patient care. Seeking out an opportunity in a growing practice where improving the lives of patients is a priority.”

3. Licensed Practical Nurse

“Licensed practical nurse with 5+ years of experience looking to apply highly developed phlebotomy, infection control, and patient care skills in a small clinic setting to enhance the patient experience. Aiming to bring a positive attitude and empathetic mindset into an environment where the quality of patient care remains a top priority, enhancing the workplace and assisting with the organization’s primary goals.”

Putting It All Together

Alright, you now know not just what a nursing resume objective is, but when and how to use one. When properly deployed, these statements can be powerful resume additions, helping you stand out from the sea of other applicants.

Just bear in mind that it isn’t the only approach. In some cases, a resume summary might be a stronger option. Take a look at them both and see which best meets your needs. That way, you can craft your ideal resume, increasing your odds of landing your perfect job.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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Career Advice > Job Search > Resumes and Cover Letters > Nursing Resume Objective: Tips and Examples

Nursing Resume Objective: Tips and Examples

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A nursing resume objective is a strategic tool within your resume to quickly distinguish yourself from the competition. It grabs the recruiter’s or hiring manager’s attention and piques their interest for more, similar to an amuse-bouche or other appetizer. Resume objectives specifically cater to nurses that don’t meet the typical candidate profile.

If you are preparing to look for a new job and want to learn more about what a nursing objective for a resume is, when to use it, and how to write one, we’re here to help. We’ll provide you with this essential information, along with 10 nursing objectives examplesthat will give you a head start on crafting a well-written resume.

What Is a Nurse Resume Objective?

A resume objective is a focused and concise career statement at the top of your resume, just below the header. Its purpose is to highlight your achievements and skills and to express your job goal. It serves as a bridge between your past and future roles.

Nurse Resume Objective vs Professional Summary

For nursing resumes , deciding whether to use an objective or a professional summary depends on your unique circumstances. Using an objective for nursing resumes is ideal for:

• New or novice nurses who have limited work experience
• Nurses who aspire to transition to a different nursing specialty, such as a bedside nurse seeking a non-bedside nursing position
• Nurses who are seeking a career position outside the nursing field

On the other hand, a professional summary is highly effective for experienced nurses seeking a job within their current specialty or field. It’s a longer, more detailed statement that allows nurses to illustrate how their accomplishments and skills from previous related experiences complement the desired position.

How to Write a Nursing Resume Objective

In this section, you’ll learn tips on how to create your objective for a nursing resume. The objective should be:

• Brief — In only one to two sentences, capture who you are as a candidate and what you bring to the position.
• Tailored — Since a nursing objective is so succinct, adapt your objective for each job by focusing on keywords from the job posting.
• Experience-oriented — Prioritize showcasing your best accomplishments, qualifications, and skills that align with what the employer is seeking.
• Goal-centered — Define your career goal so the employer clearly understands what you hope to achieve, especially if you are a non-traditional candidate.
• Simple — Avoid overcomplicating or overembellishing this section, and keep in mind that the objective is geared towards what you can offer the employer, not just what you are seeking.

Nurse Skills for Resume

When you begin writing a resume, you sometimes need to remember all the great skills you developed as a nurse. For easy reference, here are some nurse skills for resume writing you can use:

• ACLS, BLS, PALS, etc.
• Communication skills
• Compassion or empathy
• Computer skills or EHR skills
• Critical thinking
• Medication administration
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Other languages

Nursing Resume Objective Examples

Writing nursing objectives and goals can seem daunting at first. To help you get started, here are 10 different nursing resume objective examples that you can customize for your specific needs.

New Graduate Nurses

• Highly motivated and compassionate new BSN graduate nurse with strong academic and student clinical experience, as well as two years’ experience as an ICU tech. My goal is to join the cardiac ICU nurse residency program at Clara Barton Hospital, where I can apply and expand my nursing skills to provide patient-centered care for critically ill cardiac patients.
• Newly graduated certified registered nurse anesthetist seeking a CRNA position at Loretta C. Ford Hospital’s anesthesia care team. Five years’ experience as a medical ICU nurse with excellent critical care, problem-solving, and communication skills, and the ability to work in high-stress and fast-paced environments.

Nurses Changing Fields

• Compassionate and empathetic RN with three years of acute care experience seeking a hospice nurse position at Dorothea Dix Hospice Center. I apply my nursing skills, emotional intelligence, and communication abilities to provide holistic, palliative nursing care to terminally ill patients and their families.
• Detail-oriented RN with five years of experience in medical-surgical nursing as a bedside and charge nurse, with strong patient advocacy, team-building, and communication skills. Seeking a new role as a nurse case manager at the Lillian Wald Skilled Nursing Facility, where I can apply my clinical and interpersonal skills to coordinate all aspects of patient care and serve as a facilitator between the patients and their multidisciplinary teams.
• Energetic, highly skilled, adaptable RN with four years’ experience as an emergency and trauma nurse with CEN, TNCC, ACLS, and PALS certifications. I thrive in fast-paced environments and am ready to begin a career as a travel nurse with the Walt Whitman Nurse Staffing Agency.
• Detail-oriented public health nurse with high integrity and excellent research, analytical, and writing skills. Looking to enhance my career and utilize my strengths as a clinical research nurse at the Mary Seacole Nurse Health Network to implement, evaluate, and manage clinical trials to improve patient care.
• Outgoing, professional LPN with nine years’ experience in post-acute care with expertise in catheter, tracheostomy, and wound care ; phlebotomy and IV skills; patient and caregiver education; and time management. Searching for a position as a home health nurse at Florence Nightingale Home Care to provide excellent skilled nursing care that promotes patient autonomy and prevents hospitalizations.
• Meticulous, empathetic, SANE-certified, psychiatric RN with over two years of experience and robust critical thinking, physical assessment, and communication skills. Eager to transition to a new role as a forensic nurse at Mary Eliza Mahoney Hospital and combine nursing knowledge with forensic science to make a positive impact on crime victims, survivors, and the legal system.

Nurses Leaving the Profession

• With seven years of critical care experience, I aim to transition into a real estate agent role at Virginia A. Henderson Realty. I will utilize my strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills and display dedication to help clients navigate the buying and selling process with confidence to help them find their dream homes.
• I aspire to transition into the health education specialist position within the Department of Health. With one year of acute care nursing experience, I aim to use my skills as a foundation to create and execute effective health education programs that empower individuals to adopt positive lifestyle choices.

Are You Ready to Apply for Your Dream Job?

Now that you know how to write a nursing resume objective, you can finish your resume with confidence. Need help taking the next step? Find the ideal nursing job you deserve on IntelyCare today.

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Top 18 Nursing Resume Objective Examples

Updated July 20, 2023 13 min read

A resume objective is a brief statement of your professional goals for a nursing position. It should be no longer than two sentences and should be tailored to the job you are applying for. To write an effective objective, start by researching the employer’s needs and listing your relevant qualifications. Use keywords from the job description to emphasize your skillset and show that you are a good fit for the role. For example, if you’re applying as a registered nurse, you might write: “Registered Nurse with 5+ years of experience providing compassionate care in acute care settings seeking to use my expertise to improve patient outcomes at ABC Hospital.” By including specific details such as years of experience, skills, and desired position, employers will quickly understand what value you can bring to their organization.

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Top 18 Nursing Resume Objective Samples

• To obtain a position as a Nursing Professional in a healthcare setting where I can utilize my clinical and interpersonal skills to provide quality patient care.
• To secure a challenging position as a Nurse in an environment that promotes professional growth and development.
• Seeking a nursing role with an organization that values patient-centered care, collaboration, and innovation.
• To pursue a career as a Nurse in an environment that allows me to leverage my experience in providing quality healthcare services.
• To use my expertise in nursing to provide the highest level of care for patients while fostering positive relationships with colleagues and staff.
• To work as part of an interdisciplinary team to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
• To join an organization where I can apply my knowledge and skills in providing excellent patient care.
• Seeking employment as a Nurse with an organization that is committed to providing quality healthcare services.
• To contribute my clinical knowledge and expertise to improve the health of individuals within the community.
• Looking for a nursing position where I can make use of my critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.
• To work as part of an innovative team dedicated to providing exceptional patient care while meeting organizational goals.
• Aiming to use my extensive experience in nursing to provide compassionate care for patients while ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Searching for an opportunity to utilize my strong communication skills, organizational abilities, and commitment to excellence in nursing practice.
• Seeking a role as a Nurse where I can apply my knowledge of evidence-based practice principles and protocols for delivering high-quality care.
• Desiring to join an organization that recognizes the importance of creating positive relationships between nurses and patients through effective communication strategies.
• Looking for a position as a Nurse that will allow me to collaborate with other healthcare professionals on improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practices.
• Motivated to join an organization that values teamwork, innovation, and dedication towards providing quality patient care services.

How to Write a Nursing Resume Objective

Writing a nursing resume objective can be an intimidating task, especially if you are just starting out in the field. However, having a strong and clear objective is essential to setting yourself apart from other applicants and landing the job you want. Here are some tips on how to write an effective nursing resume objective:

1. Identify your key skills and qualifications. Before writing your resume objective, consider what makes you a great candidate for the job. Think about your education, experience, certifications, and any specialties or areas of expertise that make you stand out from other applicants. This will help you craft an effective resume objective that highlights these skills and qualifications.

2. Be specific about what position you are applying for. A great way to do this is to include the exact title of the job in your resume objective statement. This lets employers know exactly what position you are applying for and why you think you’d be a good fit for it.

3. Keep it short and concise. Your resume objective should be no longer than two sentences long. You want to give employers enough information to get them interested in learning more about your qualifications without going into too much detail that could make them lose interest quickly.

4. Showcase your enthusiasm for the job and company culture. Employers want to hire people who are excited about joining their team, so make sure to express this enthusiasm in your resume objective statement by mentioning why working at the company would be beneficial for both parties involved.

By following these tips, you can write an effective nursing resume objective that will help set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of getting hired!

Related : What does a Nursing do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Nursing Resume Objective

In the competitive field of nursing, standing out from the crowd is crucial. One way to achieve this is by crafting a compelling resume objective that highlights your key skills. This section not only provides an overview of your career goals but also showcases your unique abilities and experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the job. In this section, we will discuss some of the key skills that you should emphasize in your nursing resume objective to catch the attention of potential employers and secure an interview.

1. Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is a crucial skill for a nursing job as it involves drawing blood from patients for various tests, transfusions, research, or donations. This skill demonstrates the nurse's ability to perform this task accurately and safely, ensuring minimal discomfort to the patient. It also shows that the nurse has excellent hand-eye coordination, precision, and can handle sensitive procedures. These qualities are essential in providing high-quality patient care. Including phlebotomy in a resume objective can make a candidate more attractive to potential employers in the healthcare field.

2. Catheterization

Catheterization is a crucial skill for a nursing job as it involves direct patient care. This skill demonstrates the ability to perform a complex medical procedure, showcasing technical expertise, precision, and attention to detail. It also indicates the nurse's capacity to maintain patient comfort and dignity during potentially uncomfortable procedures. Including this skill in a resume objective can highlight the candidate's practical nursing abilities, which are critical in providing high-quality healthcare services.

3. Wound care

Wound care is a crucial skill for a nursing resume objective because it directly relates to the primary responsibilities of most nursing roles. Nurses often deal with patients who have various types of wounds, from surgical incisions to pressure ulcers. Proficiency in wound care demonstrates the ability to provide essential patient care, reduce chances of infection, and promote healing. It also shows that the nurse can follow proper protocols and guidelines, which is vital in maintaining patient safety and health. This skill could make a candidate more attractive to potential employers as it showcases their practical nursing abilities.

4. IV insertion

IV insertion is a critical skill for a nursing position as it involves administering medication, fluids, or drawing blood from patients. This skill demonstrates the nurse's technical ability, precision, and patient care capabilities. Including this on a resume objective can show potential employers that the candidate has hands-on experience in essential medical procedures and can effectively contribute to a healthcare team.

5. Medication administration

Medication administration is a crucial skill for nursing as it involves understanding different types of medications, their dosages, and their effects on patients. This skill demonstrates the nurse's ability to ensure patient safety by accurately administering prescribed medications and monitoring for any adverse reactions. Including this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and experience to handle this critical aspect of patient care. It also reflects the nurse's attention to detail, responsibility, and commitment to maintaining high standards of healthcare.

6. Patient assessment

Patient assessment is a crucial skill for a nursing job as it involves evaluating and monitoring the health conditions of patients. This skill is necessary for a resume objective because it shows the potential employer that the candidate can effectively identify changes in patient health, understand their needs, and provide appropriate care. It also demonstrates critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills which are all essential in the nursing profession.

7. CPR certification

A CPR certification is crucial for a nursing resume objective because it showcases the applicant's ability to handle emergency situations and potentially save lives. This skill demonstrates that the nurse is trained and prepared to provide immediate medical care in critical situations, which is an essential part of their job. It also indicates that the candidate has undergone specific training, making them more desirable to employers in the healthcare field.

8. EKG interpretation

EKG interpretation is a critical skill for a nursing job as it involves understanding and analyzing electrocardiograms, which monitor the electrical activity of the heart. This skill is essential in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular problems. Including EKG interpretation in a resume objective demonstrates a candidate's competence in cardiac care, showcasing their ability to provide comprehensive patient care, which is crucial in the nursing profession. It also indicates that the candidate possesses advanced skills, making them potentially more attractive to employers seeking high-level expertise in their nursing staff.

9. Ostomy care

Ostomy care is a crucial skill for a nursing resume objective as it demonstrates the ability to provide specialized care for patients with ostomies. This includes knowledge and experience in managing, cleaning, and changing ostomy appliances, as well as educating patients on self-care techniques. It shows potential employers that the candidate has specific skills in handling complex patient needs, which can be particularly valuable in settings such as surgical units, home health care, or long-term care facilities.

10. Tracheostomy maintenance

Tracheostomy maintenance is a critical skill for a nursing resume objective as it demonstrates the nurse's ability to provide specialized care for patients with respiratory difficulties. This skill shows competence in managing complex health conditions, ensuring patient safety, and improving patient outcomes. It also reflects the nurse's capacity to perform under pressure, communicate effectively with patients and their families about care procedures, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals. This can make the nurse more attractive to potential employers looking for candidates who can handle advanced nursing responsibilities.

In conclusion, the objective section of your nursing resume is an opportunity to showcase your unique skills and strengths that make you the ideal candidate for the job. It's essential to carefully select and highlight key skills that align with the requirements of the position you're applying for. Remember, this section serves as a first impression to potential employers, so make it impactful and reflective of your professional capabilities. Tailoring your resume objective to each specific role can greatly increase your chances of landing interviews and ultimately securing your desired nursing position.

Related : Nursing Home Administrator Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing a Nursing Resume Objective

A nursing resume objective can be a powerful tool for job seekers in the nursing field. It provides employers with a quick overview of your qualifications and experience, and it can set you apart from other applicants. However, writing an effective resume objective is not always easy. Many job seekers make mistakes when crafting their objectives that can hurt their chances of getting an interview.

One of the most common mistakes is being too vague or general in the objective statement. A successful resume objective should focus on specific skills and qualities that are relevant to the position you are applying for. For example, instead of saying “I am seeking a nursing position”, say something like “I am seeking a position as an RN where I can utilize my extensive experience in patient care and medical terminology”. This statement shows employers that you have knowledge and experience in the field, which makes you a better candidate than someone who simply states they want a job without showing any qualifications or experience.

Another mistake many people make is including too much information in their resume objective. An effective resume objective should be concise and to-the-point; employers don’t have time to read through long-winded statements about your career aspirations or goals. Instead, focus on only one or two key points that demonstrate why you are qualified for the job and explain what value you will bring to the organization.

Finally, some people may include irrelevant information when writing their resume objectives. For instance, if you are applying for a nursing position at a hospital, it’s not necessary to mention your college degree in English literature or your volunteer work at a homeless shelter; these items do not directly relate to the job description and may distract from your qualifications as a nurse.

By avoiding these common mistakes when crafting your nursing resume objective, you will increase your chances of landing an interview with potential employers. Focus on showcasing your relevant skills and experiences related to the job opening while keeping your statement brief and direct – this will help ensure that recruiters take notice of your application!

Related : Nursing Resume Examples

A right resume objective for a nursing position should focus on the skills and experience that you can bring to the job, while a wrong resume objective may simply state your desire to work in the field without any qualifications or assets that make you an ideal candidate.

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

Nursing resume objective examples.

Curated by hiring managers, here are proven resume objectives you can use as inspiration while writing your Nursing resume.

• Nursing (Career Changer)
• Nursing (Experienced Professional)
• Nursing (Recent Graduate)
• Nursing resume templates
• Similar objective examples

Nursing Resume Objective Example

Power of skill specificity.

Being specific about your nursing expertise, like 'neonatal intensive care,' communicates your specialization to recruiters. It also indicates your readiness to handle similar roles or challenges in the new role.

Highlighting Real Impact

Quantifying your achievements, like 'managed over 50+ high-risk pregnancies,' exhibits your capability to handle complex and risky situations, a critical trait in nursing.

Showcasing Leadership Skills

Mentioning experiences where you've led multidisciplinary teams underlines your leadership skills, which are highly pertinent in healthcare settings where teamwork is pivotal.

Focus on Patient Outcomes

Highlighting your contributions to improved patient outcomes directly speaks to the core of nursing - patient care. It shows your commitment to quality service.

Nursing (Career Changer) Resume Objective Example

Leveraging past experience.

Referencing your past role as a 'Healthcare Administrator' gives you an edge as it shows you understand the broader healthcare system, which could enhance nursing care delivery.

Merging Old and New Skills

Combining 'knowledge of healthcare systems and regulations' with new nursing skills makes you an attractive candidate. It shows you bring more to the table than just nursing skills.

Quantifiable Achievements

Sharing achievements like 'reduced hospital readmission rates by 20%' prove you're results-oriented. It assures potential employers of your ability to contribute positively to their goals.

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Nursing (Experienced Professional) Resume Objective Example

Leverage extensive experience.

Stating your '20+ years of experience in critical care' sets you apart as a seasoned professional, which can be especially relevant for leadership roles.

Evidence of Problem-Solving Skills

Sharing an accomplishment like 'decreased medication errors by 25%' exhibits your problem-solving skills and your commitment to improving care quality.

Leadership Recognition

Mentioning you're 'recognized for leading nursing teams' underlines your proven leadership skills, demonstrating your capability to manage teams in high-pressure environments.

Innovation in Nursing

Highlighting 'innovative problem-solving' shows you're an individual who thinks outside the box. This is an attractive trait, especially in an industry that's constantly evolving.

Nursing (Recent Graduate) Resume Objective Example

Showing special interest.

Mentioning a 'special interest in geriatric care' gives employers a peek into your passion and potential expertise, which could be a deciding factor in specialized roles.

Practicum Experience

Sharing your 'successful practicum in a hospice setting' shows you're not completely green. You’ve had some hands-on experience, even as a recent graduate.

Soft Skills Matter

Highlighting 'excellent patient communication skills' emphasizes your soft skills, which are essential in nursing for patient satisfaction and quality care.

Proactive Patient Safety

Mentioning your 'proactive approach to patient safety' shows you're not just about doing the job, but doing it right, and keeping patients safe is a priority.

Nursing Resume Templates

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Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

34 Best Nursing Resume Objective Statement Examples

What is an objective statement, and do you need one? Some people might say that you don’t need one, or that it is outdated. Well, if you want to stand out from the pack and be able to tell the employer compelling information about you that it won’t find anywhere else, then use an objective statement.

Done correctly, this statement will highlight what you bring that the employer needs (directly from its job posting), and will give it a flavor for the soft skills it won’t be able to find elsewhere on your resume or in your application. A tailored objective statement also shows the employer that you are not just seeking any job, you want a job specifically with that particular employer and you are the right fit.

Below is a selection of objectives statements for nursing with a range of experience to guide you in writing a strong objective statement:

Experienced Nursing Objective Statements

• Seeking a position as an ER Nurse at County General Hospital, bringing over five years of emergency medical experience, incredible stamina, empathetic compassion, and a deep understanding of emergency response gained through previous roles at State Hospital ER and internships.
• Analytical and patient-focused team player seeking clinical nursing position, bringing experience in dermatological clinical nursing processes and protocol to provide evidence-based care for the best interests of the populations served, and to support the development of newly trained nurses through management and mentorship.
• Compassionate Registered Nurse of the highest integrity applying for a position at Grove Care, looking to utilize three years’ experience in geriatric health, elder care, and hospice to bring comfort and dignity to seniors.
• To serve as a mentor and a manager in the position of Head Nurse at West General, experienced in providing quality health care in hospital settings, leading nursing teams, and working across different hospital departments including emergency and oncology.
• Highly qualified and experienced Registered Nurse seeking a part-time faculty position at University Medical School, bringing outstanding communication skills, practical knowledge and insights, and an enthusiasm for educating the next generation of nurses.
• Dedicated Registered Nurse with a certification in adolescent mental health looking to secure a role in a private healthcare facility, bringing over four years’ experience in supporting clinical psychiatric teams and caring for the mental and physical health of patients.
• Experienced pediatric nursing professional seeking a position as a pediatric oncology nurse to apply current knowledge of pediatric care, experience communicating empathetically with patients’ families, and dedication to the highest standards of professionalism.
• To obtain a Registered Nurse role and provide quality healthcare to patients, drawing on excellent communication skills, solid stamina, management acumen gained through previous supervisory experience, clinical training and practical experience.
• To obtain a position as a Registered Nurse at Main Street GP, seeking to combine two years’ experience in general medicine with excellent communication skills in a friendly, patient-oriented manner.
• Compassionate nurse dedicated to quality healthcare for all, seeking a position in a free clinic, experienced in delivering quality care in under-resourced and high-stress medical settings.
• Looking to obtain the position of Registered Nurse with ABC Hospital, coming with utmost dedication to patient integrity and care, aiming to apply practical knowledge gained through 10 years’ experience of nursing in hospital settings across multiple departments including oncology, pediatrics, and obstetrics.
• Patient-centered Registered Nurse committed to providing high-quality health care, seeking new role at XYZ Hospital, looking to apply over seven years of clinical experience to lead a nursing team in a hospital setting.
• Caring and enthusiastic Registered Nurse with over six years of experience seeking opportunity to join a general practice, bringing extensive knowledge of family healthcare from both clinical training and ongoing professional development.
• Highly educated and experienced Registered Nurse seeking the opportunity to join Medical Cover as a Nurse Consultant, aiming to apply clinical and practical understanding of health care to support a national leading insurance company.
• To obtain the position of Practice Nurse at Women’s Medical Practice, seeking to utilize three years’ experience in OB/GYN practices, extensive understanding of female health, and outstanding interpersonal skills.
• Caring and committed Registered Nurse with 25 years’ experience working with pediatric cancer patients and their families, coming with excellent references and a demonstrated track record of professional performance and mentoring to entry-level colleagues.

Entry-Level Nursing Objective Statements

• Technologically savvy and physically fit Registered Nurse, applying for the Registered Clinical Nurse position at Johnston Inc. to provide compassionate care to adults who experience disabilities in group homes, coming with a sincere desire to work with people with disabilities and desire to bring joy into their lives each and every day.
• Devoted and patient-focused recently licensed Registered Nurse, looking for emergency room position, leveraging ability to multitask, ability to learn quickly, endless energy, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Recent nursing graduate enthusiastic to gain experience while contributing to an established medical practice, bringing demonstrated expertise in clinical protocols and healthcare obtained during internships and academic training.
• Energetic and professional pediatric nurse seeking to join Medical Associates, committed and passionate about providing high-quality healthcare to all patients and communicating children’s health needs to their families.
• Proactive newly qualified nurse looking to obtain a position in a general medical practice, coming with an excellent academic record and an eagerness to learn new skills.
• Seeking to join the team at Recover Healthcare as a Registered Nurse to make a difference in people’s lives, bringing dedication, stamina, and attention-to-detail to the delivery of the highest standard of patient care.
• Enthusiastic and empathetic nursing graduate looking for position with John Smith Hospital to become part of a patient-centered collaborative work environment, bringing a commitment to patient safety and life-long learning.
• Recent nursing graduate with experience in high-stress setting gained through an internship in Central Hospital ER, seeking to join a challenging and fast-paced emergency response team.
• Recently licensed Registered Nurse applying for position in Labor & Delivery at XYZ Hospital, bringing ability to think and react quickly, endless stamina, sunny disposition, and excitement for a career in nursing.
• Self-motivated and committed nursing graduate applying for a Registered Nurse position at ABC Medical Center, coming with deep comfort of computers and web-based applications, demonstrated responsibility and excellent work ethic.
• Hardworking and dedicated nursing graduate looking to join Tri-State Medical Center as an Acute Care Nurse to demonstrate commitment to compassionate care for patient population.
• To obtain a position as a School Nurse in the ABC Public School System, bringing passion for collaborating with other school and health care staff to maintain a healthy environment and promote the wellness of students.
• Empathetic and effective communicator looking for a registered nursing position to deliver home health care services to provide exceptional care, allowing individuals to remain at home and live as independently as possible. Seeking an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
• To obtain a Staff Nurse position at Taylor College, bringing dedication to customer service, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and advanced computer skills to the provision of high-quality healthcare services to the student population.
• Detail-oriented and organized Registered Nurse with effective verbal communication skills and the ability to respond quickly and appropriately in crisis, seeking nursing position to provide treatment to adults with problems involving substance use and mental health needs.
• High-energy and devoted Registered Nurse seeking position as an Occupational Health & Wellness Registered Nurse at Access Services Corporation, bringing superior verbal and written communication skills, compassion and integrity to caring for patients with work-related injuries and illnesses.

Career Change Nursing Objective Statements

• Dedicated mental health professional with over three years’ experience in a psychiatric health-care facility and recently licensed as a Registered Nurse, seeking to transition career into nursing and provide health assessments for patients who may benefit from inpatient psychiatric care.
• Enthusiastic and recently licensed Registered Nurse seeking to leverage two years of experience in an OB/GYN’s office to a career in nursing focusing on women’s health, bringing superior computer skills, deep understanding of a doctor’s OB/GYN practice in a private setting, and unbeatable stamina.

When you draft your objective statement, have the job listing in front of you. Pull the key skills from the job listing that you have, and work them into your objective statement. Emphasize that you can give the employer what it needs, both from a technical and from a personality perspective. Use the space to paint a picture of who you are to humanize yourself to the reader. Use the above objective statements as a guide for length. Be succinct but hit your key points. Finally, make sure there are no errors in your objective statement. Good luck!