5 answers
Sophia
Student
Matawan, New Jersey
1
Question
Asked
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How do I get started in my nursing career?
I want to eventually work my way up to becoming a neonatal nurse.
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5 answers
Lily Holzner
Career Coach
2
Answers
San Luis Obispo, California
Updated
Lily’s Answer
In addition to the amazing advice shared above, I would also encourage you to seek out opportunities to volunteer in a healthcare setting starting in high school and onward through your educational journey. This will get you some lived experience in the healthcare space, and help you confirm your interest in nursing and build your skills.
You can look at websites for your local hospitals or other healthcare organizations and find volunteer opportunities that way. Oftentimes, you can choose from different departments or areas of the hospital you'd like to volunteer in. Some hospitals even have volunteer roles for "Cuddlers"- essentially these volunteers get to work directly with the neonatal department to support premature infants, which might be something you'd like to explore!
You can look at websites for your local hospitals or other healthcare organizations and find volunteer opportunities that way. Oftentimes, you can choose from different departments or areas of the hospital you'd like to volunteer in. Some hospitals even have volunteer roles for "Cuddlers"- essentially these volunteers get to work directly with the neonatal department to support premature infants, which might be something you'd like to explore!
John Levesque
Clinical Quality Nurse
83
Answers
Waterville, Maine
Updated
John’s Answer
Once you've successfully navigated the high school journey, a world of opportunities in nursing awaits you. You can opt for a 2-year associate degree (ADN) or a 4-year bachelor degree (BSN), both of which will prepare you to take the licensing exam and step into the rewarding role of a Registered Nurse (RN).
Your path to becoming an RN is largely shaped by your financial circumstances. If you're on the hunt for a fast, cost-effective route, the ADN program is your golden key. These programs are typically hosted by community colleges, which are significantly more affordable than private institutions. Plus, many states offer free tuition for a 2-year period at community colleges for recent graduates, so be sure to explore this possibility.
An ADN doesn't limit your clinical capabilities. With the current nursing shortage in the US, RNs are in high demand, which means you'll likely find job opportunities in diverse fields as long as you hold a valid license. While a BSN opens up additional opportunities, it comes with a higher price tag, especially if pursued through a private college, and it's not a compulsory requirement to start your career as an RN. Moreover, as a novice nurse, there's usually no difference in pay rates between an ADN and a BSN. If you embark on your journey with an ADN and later wish to elevate your education to a BSN for a leadership role, a research position, or to become a nurse practitioner, many employers offer tuition reimbursement.
Most specialty areas will want you to have some time in a general practice area like a medical surgical unit where you will continue to develop not only your skills like IV placement and medication administration, but most importantly your assessment skills. Sometimes, depending on the needs of a unit, they may overlook this initial period and hire a new graduate, but there is a sharp learning curve and you will still need time to develop your skills and gain experience.
Here's to your success and a fulfilling journey ahead.
Your path to becoming an RN is largely shaped by your financial circumstances. If you're on the hunt for a fast, cost-effective route, the ADN program is your golden key. These programs are typically hosted by community colleges, which are significantly more affordable than private institutions. Plus, many states offer free tuition for a 2-year period at community colleges for recent graduates, so be sure to explore this possibility.
An ADN doesn't limit your clinical capabilities. With the current nursing shortage in the US, RNs are in high demand, which means you'll likely find job opportunities in diverse fields as long as you hold a valid license. While a BSN opens up additional opportunities, it comes with a higher price tag, especially if pursued through a private college, and it's not a compulsory requirement to start your career as an RN. Moreover, as a novice nurse, there's usually no difference in pay rates between an ADN and a BSN. If you embark on your journey with an ADN and later wish to elevate your education to a BSN for a leadership role, a research position, or to become a nurse practitioner, many employers offer tuition reimbursement.
Most specialty areas will want you to have some time in a general practice area like a medical surgical unit where you will continue to develop not only your skills like IV placement and medication administration, but most importantly your assessment skills. Sometimes, depending on the needs of a unit, they may overlook this initial period and hire a new graduate, but there is a sharp learning curve and you will still need time to develop your skills and gain experience.
Here's to your success and a fulfilling journey ahead.
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
464
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Once you've made up your mind to chase a career in nursing, the pathway to becoming a registered nurse is quite simple. Start by securing the right degree. Next, successfully clear the NCLEX Exam. Lastly, ensure you get a license in the state where you plan to work.
Thanks so much Aisha!! <3
Sophia
Amy Steinbeck
Registered Nurse
20
Answers
Davenport, Florida
Updated
Amy’s Answer
Fantastic! Having a clear goal is the first step to success. Begin your journey by consulting a career advisor at your high school or college. They'll guide you on the necessary classes you need to take. Once you step into nursing school, you'll acquire all the fundamental knowledge of an RN. After obtaining your RN license, you can pursue additional certification in neonatal nursing. Make sure to gain solid experience in med surg right after nursing school, then transition into your desired specialty. You're on the right path, keep going and best of luck!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Sophia
Christopher Edwards, BSPH
Nurse Technician
4
Answers
Marietta, Georgia
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
There are several paths to becoming a nurse, including certification as a medical technician, nurse technician, phlebotomist, EKG technician, EMT, and more. If you're interested in healthcare, these roles are a great way to gain experience. They can be very beneficial and many of them offer the opportunity to work with children.
When you start school, it's important to know which courses to take, what ACT scores you need, and how to prepare for exams like the HESI, Kaplan, or TEAS. The requirements will vary depending on the school you choose. Once you know what's expected, focus on your studies and aim for good grades in all your classes.
Having a goal is a big deal, so well done! Stay focused and find what keeps you balanced.
When you start school, it's important to know which courses to take, what ACT scores you need, and how to prepare for exams like the HESI, Kaplan, or TEAS. The requirements will vary depending on the school you choose. Once you know what's expected, focus on your studies and aim for good grades in all your classes.
Having a goal is a big deal, so well done! Stay focused and find what keeps you balanced.