Rehabilitation nurses help individuals affected by chronic illness or physical disability adapt to their disabilities, achieve their greatest potential, and work toward productive, independent lives. They take a holistic approach to meeting patients’ medical, vocational, educational, environmental, and spiritual needs. Rehabilitation nurses begin working with individuals and their families soon after the onset of a disabling injury or chronic illness. They continue providing support through patient and family education and empower these individuals when they go home or return to work or school. Rehabilitation nurses often teach patients and their caregivers how to access systems and resources. Rehabilitation nursing is a philosophy of care, not a work setting or a phase of treatment. Rehabilitation nurses base their practice on rehabilitative and restorative principles by:

Managing complex medical issues 

Collaborating with other specialists 

Providing ongoing patient and caregiver education 

Setting goals for maximum independence 

Establishing plans of care to maintain optimal wellness

Rehabilitation nurses practice in all settings: 

Freestanding rehabilitation facilities 

Hospitals (inpatient rehabilitation units) 

Long-term sub-acute care facilities and skilled nursing facilities 

Long-term acute care facilities 

Comprehensive outpatient rehab facilities 

Private practice 

Home health care agencies 

Clinics and day rehabilitation programs 

Community and government agencies 

Insurance companies and health maintenance organizations

Schools and universities

Rehabilitation nurses fill many roles across the continuum of care: 

Administrator 

Admissions liaison 

Case manager

Clinical nurse specialist 

Researcher 

Staff nurse

Educator

Credentials
Rehabilitation nurses are registered nurses, licensed in the state where they practice. Some have masters and doctoral degrees from one of several specialized programs across the country.