Nursing Organizations and Associations

September 1, 2022

There are many reasons you may want to consider joining one or more professional organizations for nurses. Membership can provide an opportunity for you to network with other nurses and nurses in your specialty area, as well as other benefits that vary between organizations. There are professional nursing organization options for RNs, specialty nurses, student nurses, and other roles related to the healthcare field. Following is information to help you make an informed decision about joining one.

Why Join a Professional Nursing Organization?

Joining a professional organization can provide opportunities for you to network with other health professionals who understand your career and its joys and challenges. According to an NCBI study, membership can lead to personal growth, enhance your professional prospects and aid your knowledge development and offer support for creating change in your field.¹ Some nursing associations offer discounts on publications and online continuing education. Some feature career assistance and job board sites. There are many organizations available to you in the nursing profession. Check out this compilation of organizations and what they have to offer.

American Nurses Association (ANA)

The American Nurses Association works to advance the nursing profession through initiatives that include federal lobbying on nursing and healthcare-related issues. It is considered the strongest voice in the nursing profession. The ANA offers three membership options:

ANA and State Membership – The highest membership level that includes state benefits – Licensed RNs only
ANA E-Membership – The basic option that is virtual with limited benefits (only available in some states) – Licensed RNS only
ANA Student Subscriber – Available to nursing students who want to have access to critical resources and insights to further their education

Member Benefits include:

Free development information and webinars
Updated nursing news
Discounts, including continuing education and publications
Network and support from fellow RNs
Policymaker outreach opportunities
State nursing association benefits

National Student Nurses Association (NSNA)

The National Student Nurses Association works to mentor nursing students who are preparing for initial RN licensing and convey the standards, skills, and ethics that are needed to work in the field. Membership is open to:

Nursing and pre-nursing students who are enrolled in a program approved by any state in preparation for having RN licensure
RNs in programs that lead to a baccalaureate degree
Sustaining membership opportunities

Member benefits include:

NSNA Leadership University Honor Society
Awards program and scholarship opportunities
Opportunities for career planning
Discounts
Leadership development opportunities
Entry-level RN positions on NSNA Career Center Online

Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma)

Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing

Emergency Nurses Association (ENA)

The Emergency Nurses Association is a nursing organization for RNs specializing in emergency care, RN equivalents and students in an RN program. An initiative is to help the voices of ER nurses be heard through public policy that affects ER nursing. Member benefits include:

Scholarships and grants
Professional development
Volunteer opportunities
Free continuing education

American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses is the world’s largest specialty nursing professional organization, which boasts more than 130,000 global critical care members. The organization supports progressive and crucial care with education, support and resources. Member benefits include: