The Bradenton Nursing Student’s Resource Guide
As a nursing student or nursing professional in Bradenton, Florida, you may be looking for information and resources about the area. Is it a good location for nursing school? Where should you study or purchase the supplies you need for your education? What about job opportunities?
This guide explores average salaries and job growth for various nursing positions, potential employers in Bradenton, as well as the best supply shops, study spots, and areas to visit.
Nursing Salaries and Job Growth in Bradenton
Bradenton is home to a wide variety of nursing and healthcare employers, including 28 assisted living facilities, 11 top-ranked hospitals in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, and various urgent care facilities, doctor’s offices, addiction counseling centers, and medical spas. Fortunately, no matter where you choose to work, you can expect to earn a slightly higher than average salary compared to the rest of the state.
Below, learn about specific salaries and job growth projections for different types of nursing professionals.
CNA Salary and Growth in Bradenton
Certified nursing assistants (CNAs), sometimes called nursing aides or nursing assistants, work directly with patients to provide care. Tasks may include gathering medical supplies, taking vital signs, and bathing, grooming, and feeding patients.
In Bradenton, CNAs can expect to earn slightly more per year than the state average. Of course, the exact salary or hourly rate will vary by employer.
| CNA Salary and Growth | |
| Bradenton 2020 Median Salary | $25,340 – $40,280 |
| Florida 2020 Median Salary | $21,530 – $37,830 |
| Florida 2018-2028 Growth | 11% |
Data from O*Net (2021); includes certified and uncertified nursing assistants
Medical Assistant Salary and Growth in Bradenton
Medical assistants (MAs) are responsible for many clinical and administrative tasks in the medical field, including welcoming patients, updating files and records, preparing patients for their exams, and taking vital signs. Specific tasks can vary significantly by the employer. For example, a medical assistant in an ER would have different responsibilities than an MA working in a dermatologists’ office.
Currently, projected job growth in Florida for medical assistants is nearly double the national average, which is great news for Bradenton nursing students looking to pursue a career as an MA.
| MA Salary and Growth | |
| Bradenton 2020 Median Salary | $29,360 – $49,010 |
| Florida 2020 Median Salary | $26,830 – $45,010 |
| Florida 2018-2028 Growth | 32% |
Data from O*Net (2021)
LPN Salary and Growth in Bradenton
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) work with RNs and physicians to provide patients with the best possible care. Common tasks may include taking vital signs, taking a patient’s medical history, monitoring patients’ health, keeping records, and gathering medical supplies.
The outlook for LPNs in Bradenton is quite positive, with higher average salaries than the rest of the state and faster than average job growth.
| LPN Salary and Growth | |
| Bradenton 2020 Median Salary | $39,580 – $61,610 |
| Florida 2020 Median Salary | $35,160 – $60,250 |
| Florida 2018-2028 Growth | 12% |
Data from O*Net (2021)
RN Salary and Growth in Bradenton
Registered nurses are responsible for caring for patients, communicating with physicians, administering medicines, and checking vital signs. They are an integral part of the healthcare field and complete a higher level of education than most other nursing occupations.
Bradenton RNs earn more than other nursing professionals in the area and are projected to be in high demand over the next several years.
| RN Salary and Growth | |
| Bradenton 2020 Median Salary | $53,020 – $86,990 |
| Florida 2020 Median Salary | $50,220 – $93,500 |
| Florida 2018-2028 Growth | 16% |
Data from O*Net (2021)
Top Nursing Employers in Bradenton
If you’re considering nursing school in Bradenton or relocating to the Sunshine State to further your nursing career, Bradenton has many healthcare employers. From hospitals and long-term care facilities to rehab centers and doctor’s offices, here are a few top Bradenton nursing employers to consider.
Note that inclusion on this list does not guarantee that the business has available jobs. Check the career page of each facility to verify open positions.
Freedom Village of Bradenton
Freedom Village of Bradenton is a 34-acre retirement community offering residents a wide variety of services and amenities. Staff dedicate themselves to improving residents’ lives and helping them through the aging process. Nurses assist residents with daily living and provide medical care as needed.
Recognized as a 2021 Top Workplace USA, Freedom Village of Bradenton provides a spectrum of services—from independent living to assisted living, memory care, rehab, and more—that enable you to explore and experience various nursing career options.
Blake Medical Center
Blake Medical Center is a 383-bed hospital featuring a 24-hour ER, Level II trauma center, stroke center, and burn center. The center provides a wide range of medical procedures, including surgeries, cancer care, rehab, and heart care, and nurses can pursue specialized RN positions.
With many accreditations and certifications regarding patient care, Blake Medical Center also creates a healthy environment for employees, earning the American Heart Association’s Gold Fit Friendly Designation for its dedication to employees’ well-being. In addition, Blake invests in cross-training, skill development, and continuing education to help employees grow their careers.
Manatee Memorial Hospital
As a 319-bed hospital providing advanced healthcare services, Manatee Memorial Hospital offers robot-assisted surgeries, emergency care, cardiac care, a Level II neonatal ICU, and a pediatrics center. The hospital employs more than 500 health professionals and offers a wide range of nursing positions in surgery, cardiac care, and pediatric care.
Manatee Memorial Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval and is committed to providing a work environment that encourages professional development. The Student Nurse Assistant Program enables student nurses to begin their careers while still in school, with flexible scheduling and competitive wages.
Centerstone Behavioral Hospital and Addiction Center
A nonprofit mental health and substance abuse treatment hospital, Centerstone Behavioral Hospital and Addiction Center works to change people’s lives with a variety of mental health services, including disability services, addiction recovery, therapeutic foster care, and residential services. Nursing positions include LPN, RN, and QMA.
Centerstone employs 3,800 staff members spread across four states and provides several benefits and perks to employees, including wellness reimbursements, daycare assistance, professional development training, and flexible work schedules.
Scholarships and Grants for Bradenton Nursing Students
Aspiring nursing professionals considering attending nursing school or a CNA program in Bradenton, Florida, have options when it comes to paying for their education. In addition to federal student loans, several local funding opportunities are available, including:
- Bradenton nursing school scholarships: Many Bradenton nursing schools offer financial aid and scholarships for their students. Check out the website of the school or training program you’re considering for a list of scholarships specific to that school. Requirements vary by school.
- Suncoast Nursing Action Coalition: This organization dedicated to the future of nursing lists a wide range of nursing scholarships available for nursing students in Manatee County and the surrounding areas.
- Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Nursing Scholarships: The Lakewood Ranch Foundation provides scholarships to nursing students currently participating in a clinical affiliation at LWRMC and living in Manatee or Sarasota County.
Nursing Supply Stores in Bradenton
There are several nursing supply stores in Bradenton where nursing students and professionals can purchase scrubs, shoes, masks, and more. Some of the following stores may offer discounts or rewards programs for nurses or nursing students, so make sure to explain your student status when inquiring about products.
S & R Uniforms
S & R Uniforms is your one-stop-shop for uniforms, shoes, monogramming, screen printing, luggage, and hats. While many of the uniforms are for military and police force members, the store also features a range of shoes, scrubs, compression gear, EMT gear, and other medical supplies.
Call: 941-748-1245
Visit: 1833 14th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205
HMP Medical Equipment and Supplies
HMP Medical Equipment & Supplies offers a wide selection of medical supplies, including compression wear, mastectomy supplies, orthopedic braces, urological and ostomy supplies, PPE, scrubs, blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, and more.
Call: 941-794-2447
Visit: 5650 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34210
The Scrub Club
Looking for the perfect scrubs? The Scrub Club has you covered. This store features top scrub brands, including Barco, Cherokee, Healing Hands, and Wink. In addition to scrubs, they offer other nursing supplies like watches, stethoscopes, safety glasses, socks, med sleeves, nursing bags, and penlights.
Call: 941-755-9669
Visit: 8527 East State Road 70, Bradenton, FL 34202
Hangouts and Discounts for Bradenton Nurses and Students
Life can’t be all about work and studying! Nursing students and nursing professionals looking for a place to relax, unwind, or study for exams will enjoy these local Bradenton spots.
Ding Tea Bradenton
Ding Tea is a popular Boba tea shop with various hot and cold drinks, free wi-fi, tables to hang out or study at, and a laid-back atmosphere. Customers rave about the friendly service and often drive in from other cities to experience the delicious drinks at this hidden gem in Bradenton.
Call: 941-747-1970
Visit: 803 17th Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205
Village of the Arts
If you’re looking for someplace a little more eclectic to explore on your time off, Village of the Arts is a live/work artistic community housed in historic cottages. Featuring top art galleries, restaurants, shops, art studios, yoga studios, bakeries, and more, Visitors to the Village of the Arts love the community’s uniqueness that has something for everyone to enjoy. The first Friday and Saturday of each month are Artwalk, with live music, food, and art.
Call: 941-747-8056
Visit: 926 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Other Resources for Bradenton Nursing Students and Professionals
Florida Board of Nursing
This online resource for all nursing professionals in the state of Florida can give you the information you need to apply for your nursing license, check the status of your application, get information on licensing exams, and more.
Florida Nurses Association
Florida Nurses Association is dedicated to giving a voice to all RNs in the state of Florida. Resources include a career center, networking events, discounts, and access to free training.
Sarasota County Nurse Practitioners
This organization provides resources and information for all nurse practitioners in Sarasota County, including Bradenton. Resources include education, professional development opportunities, and member networking.