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How to Become a Registered Nurse
The largest healthcare occupation in the United States today is registered nursing. Registered Nurses (RNs) are in high demand and short supply in today’s healthcare industry, owing largely to an increasing emphasis on preventive care, the expected long-term care needs of a growing elderly population, and technological advances in patient care, causing a greater number of health problems to need treatment. Those wishing to enter this demanding but satisfying profession should first take a little time to become familiar with what registered nurses do and also with the steps a person needs to take in order to become an RN.
What does a registered nurse do?
Registered nursing is a career that will enable a person to have a profound impact on the lives of others. Registered Nurses provide direct care to patients and practice in a wide variety of settings and venues, depending on the nature of their specialization. Those specializing in a particular disease, ailment, or health condition can work in virtually any type of setting, including physicians’ offices, outpatient treatment facilities, home health care agencies, and hospitals.
On the other hand, those who specialize in treatment of a particular organ or body system usually find themselves working in hospital critical care units, specialty clinics, or outpatient care facilities. Some RNs work specifically in a particular work setting, for example those who work in operating rooms assisting surgeons. RNs also can choose to work with a well-defined population, such as those who work with children or the elderly.
A specialized subset of Registered Nurse, known as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), have an advanced level of nursing education and provide a broad range of more advanced health care services. In many cases NPs are primary health-care givers who diagnose patient illnesses and prescribe medicines. In some states, NPs are allowed to open their own clinics and offices. They conduct physical exams, provide physical therapy, and order tests and therapies for patients, depending on their designated scope of practice.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual earnings of registered nurses were $62,450 as of May 2008. Median income for nurses who work in hospitals (where 60% of all RNs work) was $63,890. Those working in education (often as school nurses) earn about $10,000 less their counterparts working in hospitals, but may have the advantage of more vacation and daytime work hours.
What steps should one follow to become a registered nurse?
1. Get the Proper Basic Education. Registered nurses are distinguishable from other classes of nurse by the higher level of training needed to become one. The very first requirement is to get a high school diploma or GED. Those who are still in high school should pay extra attention to their science courses, particularly biology and chemistry. They should also make sure to take the SAT or ACT exam to prepare for admittance to a good undergraduate school.
2. Get the Proper Advanced Education. In this regard, there are four major paths that can be followed: a master’s degree in nursing (MSN), a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing (BSN), an associate degree in nursing (ADN), or a diploma. The most commonly-used path nowadays is the ADN program, typically a two-year program offered by community and junior colleges. BSN programs, offered by colleges and universities, take about 4 years to complete. The diploma program, usually administered in hospitals, is approximately three years in duration. Until the mid-1990s, most RNs in the US were initially educated in this manner. Many RNs with an ADN or diploma will choose at some later point in time to work toward a BSN by completing what is known as an RN-to-BSN program to prepare for a broader scope of nursing practice. Accelerated master’s degree in nursing (MSN) programs also are available by combining one year of a BSN program with two years of graduate study.
When trying to decide which of the four options to pursue, individuals should consider their future career path. The ADN and diploma programs have a more "hands-on" approach to educating students, whereas the BSN and MSN are academic degrees that emphasize research and nursing theory. A BSN often is necessary for administrative positions and is a prerequisite for admission to an MSN program. An advanced RN field, such as a nurse practitioner, usually requires an advanced (MSN) degree.
3. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam. In all states and U.S. territories, as well as in the District of Columbia, students are required to pass a national licensing examination, known as the NCLEX-RN, in order to obtain a registered nursing license. The NCLEX-RN exam is developed and administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and is accepted by every state as an adequate indicator of minimum competency for a new graduate. NCLEX examinations are designed to test the knowledge, skills and abilities essential to the safe and effective practice of nursing at the entry-level. Many states are members of the Nurse Licensure Compact Agreement, which allows nurses who are licensed in one state to practice in another member state without obtaining additional licensure. As of 2011, 24 states were members of the Compact. All states require periodic renewal of licenses, which may require continuing education. Those wishing to take the NCLEX-RN exam should check with the Board of Nursing in their state to find out what they need to do.
How can a person become a GREAT registered nurse?
These are the basic things to keep in mind about becoming a successful registered nurse. It takes years of education as well as a potential investment of a large sum of money. Knowing the right steps to follow: obtaining a sound basic education, choosing the right advanced educational option, and getting certification/licensure; as well as how to prepare for success in the field, will propel the nursing candidate towards a rewarding career as a registered nurse.
Resources for Registered Nurses
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