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what are the best steps to become a registered nurse?
school programs and study time
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5 answers
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Todd’s Answer
Go to a community college. Cheap and pays the same.
As a former community college student myself, I love this answer! Can you say more about this process?
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Updated
Alexis’s Answer
Before you take the plunge into nursing school, it can be incredibly helpful to chat with a variety of nurses to gain insight into what life as a nurse in different settings is like. Take a moment to reflect on why nursing appeals to you. Is it the joy of helping others? The fascination with the intricacies of the human body? Can you handle seeing individuals in pain, dealing with bleeding or stomach issues? What about caring for injured or sick children? In nursing school, you'll encounter people of all ages and diverse care environments, such as hospitals or clinics.
Choosing a nursing program can be a challenging task, especially if you're juggling work and studies simultaneously. But remember, it's not an insurmountable task. Perhaps considering part-time studies might be a more suitable option for some. Either way, the journey may be tough, but the rewards of a nursing career are well worth the effort.
Choosing a nursing program can be a challenging task, especially if you're juggling work and studies simultaneously. But remember, it's not an insurmountable task. Perhaps considering part-time studies might be a more suitable option for some. Either way, the journey may be tough, but the rewards of a nursing career are well worth the effort.
Updated
Aarushi Singh’s Answer
Becoming a registered nurse (RN) typically involves several key steps, including education, licensure, and gaining practical experience!
Education wise, you will need to obtain a high school diploma or GED. After that, enroll in an accredited nursing program. This can be a diploma program, associate degree in nursing (ADN), or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. BSN programs typically take four years, ADN programs take about two to three years, and diploma programs vary in length. Before making the decision on where and how you would like to further your education, research schools carefully to ensure they meet your needs and goals!
Upon completing your nursing program, you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam is required to become licensed as an RN in the United States. Study for the NCLEX-RN exam using study guides, review courses, and practice tests. Apply for licensure with your state board of nursing after passing the exam!
Many nursing programs include clinical rotations where you gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn and network. Consider volunteering or working as a nursing assistant or in a related healthcare role during your studies to gain additional experience.
After becoming licensed as an RN, you may choose to pursue specialization or further education. This could include earning a master of science in nursing (MSN) for advanced practice nursing roles like nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife. Some nurses pursue doctoral degrees (DNP or PhD) for roles in research, academia, or leadership positions. Nursing is a field that requires lifelong learning. Stay updated on advancements in healthcare, maintain your licensure through continuing education credits, and consider pursuing certifications in your area of interest!
As for study time, it varies depending on the program you choose and your personal circumstances. BSN programs typically take four years of full-time study, while ADN programs take around two to three years. Diploma programs can vary in length. Additionally, preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam may require several weeks or months of dedicated study time, depending on your individual preparation and study habits.
Education wise, you will need to obtain a high school diploma or GED. After that, enroll in an accredited nursing program. This can be a diploma program, associate degree in nursing (ADN), or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. BSN programs typically take four years, ADN programs take about two to three years, and diploma programs vary in length. Before making the decision on where and how you would like to further your education, research schools carefully to ensure they meet your needs and goals!
Upon completing your nursing program, you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam is required to become licensed as an RN in the United States. Study for the NCLEX-RN exam using study guides, review courses, and practice tests. Apply for licensure with your state board of nursing after passing the exam!
Many nursing programs include clinical rotations where you gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn and network. Consider volunteering or working as a nursing assistant or in a related healthcare role during your studies to gain additional experience.
After becoming licensed as an RN, you may choose to pursue specialization or further education. This could include earning a master of science in nursing (MSN) for advanced practice nursing roles like nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife. Some nurses pursue doctoral degrees (DNP or PhD) for roles in research, academia, or leadership positions. Nursing is a field that requires lifelong learning. Stay updated on advancements in healthcare, maintain your licensure through continuing education credits, and consider pursuing certifications in your area of interest!
As for study time, it varies depending on the program you choose and your personal circumstances. BSN programs typically take four years of full-time study, while ADN programs take around two to three years. Diploma programs can vary in length. Additionally, preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam may require several weeks or months of dedicated study time, depending on your individual preparation and study habits.
Updated
Martin’s Answer
RN programs are typically offered at two levels: a 2-year program at a community college, or a 4-year bachelor's degree. Make sure to choose a program that is accredited and prepares you to take the RN Boards upon completion.
Updated
Karyme’s Answer
I strongly suggest that you become a CNA and gain some expertise in nursing. Nursing is challenging. I went straight to community college to do my nursing prereqs and transferred to a four-year college, went into the program and dropped out or failed since I didn't have much knowledge and was grieving. I went back to my CC and completed my CNA program there. I also went to do my clinical at a nursing home, but I didn't like it. Not sure if it was the nursing home or just the CNA.
CNAs could also work to get medical or medical experience if you plan on switching your mind later. I'm not saying you will, but it would work best to be a CNA first.
CNAs could also work to get medical or medical experience if you plan on switching your mind later. I'm not saying you will, but it would work best to be a CNA first.