Becoming a nurse can be a rewarding career choice for individuals who are interested in healthcare and helping others. If you are considering a career in nursing, there are a few steps you can take to get started:
- Research different nursing programs and schools: Look for programs that are accredited and offer the type of nursing education you are interested in, such as an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), a bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN), or a master’s degree in nursing (MSN).
- Meet with an academic advisor: Talk to an academic advisor at the school you are interested in attending to get a better understanding of the program and its requirements. They can also help you plan your course schedule and answer any questions you may have about the program.
- Take the necessary prerequisite courses: Most nursing programs have prerequisite courses that you will need to complete before beginning the nursing program. These may include classes in anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and math.
- Apply to nursing school: Follow the application process for the nursing program you are interested in attending. This may include completing an application, submitting transcripts and test scores, and possibly participating in an interview.
- Complete the nursing program: Once you are accepted into a nursing program, you will need to complete the required coursework and clinical rotations. This typically takes two to four years, depending on the program and your previous education.
- Take the NCLEX-RN exam: After completing your nursing program, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). The NCLEX-RN is a standardized exam that tests your knowledge and skills as a nurse.
- Get a job as a nurse: Once you have passed the NCLEX-RN exam and become a licensed RN, you can start looking for job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
Why Nursing? 10 Reasons to Become a Nurse
- Helping others: Nurses are often the first point of contact for patients, and they play a crucial role in providing care and support to those in need.
- Job security: Nursing is a rewarding and in-demand career, with a projected employment growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029.
- Variety of career paths: Nurses can choose to specialize in a particular area of healthcare, such as pediatrics or gerontology, or they can pursue leadership roles, such as nursing supervisor or manager.
- Flexibility: Nurses can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and private homes, giving them the opportunity to find a work environment that best suits their interests and needs.
- Professional development opportunities: Nurses have many opportunities to continue their education and advance their careers through training programs, certification exams, and advanced degrees.
- Good pay: Nurses generally earn good salaries, with registered nurses earning a median annual wage of $73,300 as of May 2019.
- Work-life balance: Many nurses are able to work part-time or on a flexible schedule, which can allow for a better balance between their personal and professional lives.
- Personal satisfaction: Nurses have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others, which can provide a sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction.
- Opportunities to work internationally: Nurses can work in a variety of international settings, including hospitals, clinics, and non-profit organizations, and have the opportunity to experience different cultures and ways of life.
- A sense of community: Nurses often work in close-knit teams and have the opportunity to build strong relationships with their colleagues and patients. This can create a sense of community and camaraderie within the workplace.
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