Nursing is one of the most in-demand jobs in the world. It can also be a great way to make a living. Nurses are needed in hospitals and nursing homes, but there are also opportunities for travel nurses who want to work abroad on cruise ships or at ski resorts, etc.
If you’re looking for a fulfilling career with excellent salary prospects and job security, then you might want to learn how to become a registered nurse.
Nursing Education Requirements
First thing’s first: you’re going to need a good education to become a registered nurse. There are a few different options, but most nurses go through a four-year associate degree program. This includes the following nursing programs:
- A two-year program at a community college or vocational school that focuses on practical experiences in clinical settings.
- A two-year program at a university that is offered both online and on-campus varies from school to school. Some universities like Wilkes University also offer three-year accelerated nursing programs for qualified applicants.
- Four years of full-time study at an accredited university or college. Most first-time students will attend one of these colleges. You can also apply to one of the many nursing schools in Ohio, which are some of the best in the nation.
The Skills and Qualifications of RNs
Beyond your nursing education, you are going to need other skills and qualifications to earn your RN license.
You have to have a commitment to helping others and strong empathy for those who are sick or suffering. As a nurse, you will perform tasks that can be physically demanding. You must be patient and able to understand how stressful it can be when you or someone you love is in crisis. You must also possess an innate ability to remain calm under pressure.
You must have a strong work ethic and be willing to work overtime if necessary. This is important because there is no such thing as “just one more” when it comes to patients.
Nurses must always be prepared to go above and beyond the call of duty.
You must possess a high degree of integrity, which means you don’t have to be dishonest or unethical in your nursing career. Being a professional will help you get your first job, and then later on in your career, you can start building a good reputation.
It’s important that nurses maintain their values, especially when working with patients and their families.
The Process and Licensure of Becoming an RN in the United States
To become a registered nurse, in most states you will need to complete a post-secondary nursing program. Nurses who work in hospitals or other healthcare settings are also required to complete a specialized certification course.
Once you’ve completed this program, you’ll either need to work in an approved nursing setting for several years or pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
If you are planning on entering an accelerated nursing program, such as a three-year RN to BSN, then one of these two tests would need to be passed before entry. If you have already completed your degree and are simply transferring credits, then no additional testing is required.
