what are the requirements to be a registered nurse?
hello, my name is Kayla. I am in the 11th grade and I am going to Independence High School in the fall of 2015. I have always been interested in helping people and making sure they are okay. I am asking this question because I will be going to college soon and I do not know what I want to do as a career yet, but being a registered nurse is one of the major things I would like to do with my life. #nursing #registered-nurses
1 answer
Gary’s Answer
Hi, good question..good luck!
How Do I Become a Registered Nurse?
The first requirement in becoming a registered nurse is to obtain the proper education. There are several different paths that can lead to licensure as an RN. Aspiring RNs may earn a diploma, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The ADN route is the most common way to obtain licensure as a registered nurse, and usually involves a two-year program at a community or junior college. Diploma programs are available through hospitals, and typically last about three years. Like bachelor’s programs in other fields, a BSN degree is awarded by a college or university and generally takes four years to complete. Some nursing experts consider ADN-trained RNs as technical-level nurses and BSN-trained RNs as professional-level. RNs with a BSN often have better job opportunities than those with only a diploma or ADN.
Many nurses opt to earn an ADN to obtain an entry-level nursing job, then use an employer’s tuition assistance program to enroll in an RN to BSN degree program. These types of accelerated BSN programs often accept transfer credits and may even grant credit for a valid RN license, allowing you to earn a BSN more quickly than in a traditional program. You may hear of an RN to BSN program being called a BSN completion program.
After obtaining the required education, you must pass a licensure exam before you can become a registered nurse. This is achieved by passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Administered through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the NCLEX-RN exam tests your knowledge, understanding and competency in nursing. The exam is accepted in all 50 states and requires periodic renewal, for which RNs must complete continuing education courses. Because requirements vary by state, you should check with your State Board for details.
Once you become a registered nurse, you may wish to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. An MSN can lead to high-level positions in nursing administration, advanced practice or nursing education.
Is it better to get an ADN and a hospital job to gain experience and then get a BSN, or go straight to a BSN?
Mariah
Hi, I think that depends on you and your preference and financial situation. Ideally it would be better to get your BSN, but there is a lot to be said about on the job practical experience too...personally I did not finish my Bachelors degree until I was 38 years old and had a lot of experience in business...I am glad that I went in the military, received my Associates degree and worked for a while before going back to school. good luck!
Gary Petito (Veteran)