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What are the credentials or certification I need in order to become a registered nurse?

I am in California, I wanted to be a medical administrative assistant, however, I want to strive higher and become a registered nurse. What are the steps I need to take to get there?

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Thank you comment icon A lot of people are confused and think anyone in health care who is not a physician is a nurse. Angella answered this question very well already but your confusion is reasonable. Richard McKnight NP
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Godfrey’s Answer

One needs to have undergone a training as a registered nurse in a training institution that is recognised,then upon graduation and getting certified you need to register by the nursing registration body and get the practice license that will allow one to practice as a registered nurse
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Angella’s Answer

Hello Marissa!
Congratulations for choosing nursing as a career, you are a step ahead!. 🎉
To become a registered nurse (RN) in California, you'll need to complete the following steps:

Education: Obtain a nursing education from an accredited program. You have a few options:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A two-year program offered by community colleges.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year program offered by colleges and universities.
Accelerated BSN: Intended for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree and want to transition into nursing. This program typically takes 12-18 months.
Licensure: After completing your nursing education, you'll need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam measures the competencies needed to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level registered nurse.

Application for Licensure: Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, you must apply for licensure through the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). This involves submitting an application, fees, and providing necessary documentation.

Background Check and Fingerprints: As part of the licensure process, you'll need to complete a background check and submit fingerprints for a criminal record review.

Registered Nurse Licensure: Upon approval of your application, you'll receive your registered nurse license from the California BRN.

Optional: Specialize or Advance: After becoming an RN, you may choose to specialize in a particular area of nursing through additional education and certification. You can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for advanced practice nursing roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or nurse educator.

It's important to note that the specific requirements and processes may vary slightly, so it's advisable to consult the California Board of Registered Nursing website and review their official guidelines and instructions for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

If you were considering a career as a medical administrative assistant, it's worth noting that it's a separate role from a registered nurse. The steps outlined above are specifically for becoming an RN. If you wish to transition from a medical administrative assistant to a registered nurse, you would need to follow the steps outlined for becoming an RN.

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Angella Chepchirchir
Career village advisor.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Marissa,

Steps to Become a Registered Nurse in California:

To become a registered nurse in California, you need to follow these steps:

1. Education:

Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
Complete a nursing program approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). This can be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

2. Licensure:

Pass the NCLEX-RN exam: After completing your nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your nursing license.
Apply for licensure with the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN): Once you pass the NCLEX-RN exam, you can apply for licensure through the BRN.

3. Additional Requirements:

Some employers may require Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Consider pursuing specialty certifications or advanced degrees to advance your career further.

4. Continuing Education:

Maintain your RN license by fulfilling continuing education requirements set by the BRN.

5. Transition from Medical Administrative Assistant to Registered Nurse:

If you are currently working as a medical administrative assistant and wish to become a registered nurse, you will need to complete a nursing program and meet the licensure requirements outlined above.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN): The BRN is the regulatory body that oversees nursing licensure in California. Their website provides detailed information on licensing requirements and procedures.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): The NCSBN develops and administers the NCLEX-RN exam. Their website offers resources on preparing for and taking the NCLEX-RN.
American Nurses Association (ANA): The ANA is a professional organization that represents registered nurses nationwide. Their website offers insights into nursing education and career advancement paths.

GOD BLESS!
James.
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