Cheyanne
Do I have to major in nursing or a science in order to become a neonatal nurse ?
I am an upcoming freshman in college and I plan to become a nurse. Of all the schools I have gotten accepted to, I did not get accepted under any nursing programs. I have, however, been given the option to transfer to a nursing major, but I would like to know if I need a degree in nursing to become a nurse. Can I take the required classes, but major in a different area and still become a nurse ? #nursing #neonatal
3 answers
Alyssa Franzosa
Alyssa’s Answer
Hi Cheyanne,
I am a neonatal nurse and can shed some light on your question. The short answer is yes, you do need a nursing degree to be a nurse. However, it doesn't have to be your first degree. Nursing is my second degree and I did it after I had already done 4 years of college in another field, then went back to school to get my BSN. Since you are just now entering college, however, if you know for sure that you want to be a nurse I would do everything you can to take the courses needed to transfer into your school's nursing program. Regardless of whether or not you do it now or later, you will eventually need that Bachelor's of Science in Nursing to be a nurse. I hope that helps!
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
To help you on your journey to becoming a neonatal nurse, here are some practical steps you can follow:
1. Acquire the Right Education:
Join a credible nursing program at a well-known Texas university, ensuring it offers neonatal nursing courses or specializations. Consider enrolling in summer programs centered around nursing or healthcare for extra knowledge and hands-on experience.
2. Obtain Clinical Experience:
Seek opportunities to volunteer or work in healthcare environments, especially those involving newborns or infants, such as hospitals, clinics, or community health centers. Strive to secure internships or part-time jobs in neonatal units to gain practical experience and understand the everyday duties of a neonatal nurse.
3. Develop Essential Skills:
Work on enhancing your communication and interpersonal skills, as they are vital when interacting with patients, their families, and healthcare teams. Sharpen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are indispensable for delivering high-quality care to critically ill newborns.
4. Expand Your Network and Find a Mentor:
Engage with professionals in neonatal nursing through networking events, conferences, or online platforms like LinkedIn. Seek a mentor who is an experienced neonatal nurse to guide, advise, and support you throughout your career journey.
5. Keep Up with Industry Developments:
Stay updated with the latest in neonatal care by reading research papers, attending seminars or workshops, and joining relevant professional associations. Continually learn about best practices and new technologies in neonatal nursing to improve your skills and knowledge.
6. Get Ready for Licensure and Certification:
Get acquainted with the licensing requirements for registered nurses in Texas and any extra certifications required for neonatal nursing. Start preparing for licensure exams and certification tests early to ensure you fulfill all the necessary qualifications to practice as a neonatal nurse.
By adhering to these steps and remaining committed to your goal, you can pave the way to becoming a successful neonatal nurse.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): The AACN offers valuable insights into accredited nursing programs, educational resources, and professional development opportunities for aspiring nurses, including neonatal nursing specialties.
2. National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN): NANN is a leading organization dedicated to neonatal nursing, offering resources, education, and networking opportunities for nurses specializing in neonatal care. They provide access to guidelines, research papers, and industry updates relevant to neonatal nursing practice.
3. Texas Board of Nursing (BON): The Texas BON oversees nursing practice in Texas, providing information on licensing requirements, scope of practice guidelines, and updates on regulations affecting nurses in Texas. Aspiring nurses can find crucial details about becoming licensed as a registered nurse in the state through this authoritative source.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
Ashley Denomme
Ashley’s Answer
When you first begin college, you can declare a major, but that doesn't mean that you're accepted into the program at that time. It's basically a guideline for what pre-requisites you should be taking in order to get into the program. Once you meet those requirements, THEN you apply to the nursing program. My advice is to get with your college counselor right away- he/she will be able to guide you in the right direction and help you plan your course schedule.