5 answers
5
Asked 360 views

If I were to take trade school for nursing during my 11th and 12th grade year in high school, once I graduate would I be able to get straight into working as a nurse or would I have to go to college to get an actual degree?

I'm a 10th grader who always had an itch to take the career path of nursing and my school is offering grade school so I wanted to know if it’ll be a great way to get started without having to go to college.

nursing high-school
Answer This

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you
5

5 answers

0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Megan’s Answer

Hello Dasia, I'm not entirely sure about the specifics of your high school's program or how it aligns with your nursing aspirations. To embark on a nursing career, you'll need to attend an accredited school, gain substantial clinical experience, and pass the NCLEX exam to secure either your LPN or RN license. These steps aren't typically offered at high school level.

High schools often provide CNA, MA, or pharmacy tech certifications. While these programs can offer a valuable introduction to the healthcare field and patient care, they won't necessarily expedite your journey to becoming a licensed nurse.

After high school, consider exploring LPN programs in your vicinity. I can share from personal experience that this path can be fruitful. I was accepted into an LPN program right after high school, and by the age of 19, I was fully qualified and working as a nurse. This could be a promising option for you too. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Maureen’s Answer

Hi Dasia,
The short answer is, "No."
In the olden days of nursing, I graduated from Wesley-Passavant School of Nursing in 1980 with a diploma in nursing from a 3 year diploma nursing school.
We still had to take college courses: psychology, sociology, a second psych course, microbiology, anatomy and physiology x 2 semesters, organic and inorganic chemistry.

While in high school, I took 4 community college courses which were then added to my curriculum when I went back for my bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Then my diploma college courses were added to my curriculum and knocked out quite a few more courses toward my BSN.

To get the best salary, I would recommend getting a BSN. You can start at a community college which is much cheaper for your pre-requisite courses and the apply for admission to a BSN program. Some universities no longer have BSN programs and urge you to go for a doctorate in nursing.

Dasia, I would talk to a school counselor for advice. I would start volunteering at a hospital or clinic OR perhaps you could go to "trade school" for a certificate as a nursing assistant in your state. These are assistants/technicians who do vital signs: blood pressure, heart rate/pulses, EKGs, etc. to assist the nursing team with their workload. A school counselor would be able to tell you if this option is available.
Good luck Dasia on your nursing journey.
Maureen
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Martin’s Answer

Answering this question directly can be a bit tricky. On the bright side, your background might give you a head start in any licensed nursing program. This could be particularly beneficial if you're considering the LPN or RN fields, and it might even give you an edge in the CNA or MA programs. However, there's a catch. Unless you're simultaneously enrolled in a nationally recognized program, it's unlikely that you could finish high school and immediately take your licensing exam. At most, this could potentially fast-track your pursuit of an associate degree in nursing. To get the full picture, it's best to consult with the school you plan to graduate from.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Chinyere’s Answer

Hello Dasia,

The requirements for becoming a nurse can vary depending on the country and specific regulations in place. In some cases, completing a trade school program or vocational training in nursing may be sufficient to start working as a licensed practical or vocational nurse (LPN/LVN). These programs typically offer hands-on training and can be completed in less time than a college degree program.

However, if you aspire to become a registered nurse (RN), most places will require you to earn an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from an accredited college or university. These degrees provide more comprehensive education, including coursework in subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, and nursing theory.

Having said that, it's important to research the specific requirements for becoming a nurse in your location. Check with local licensing boards or healthcare organizations to determine what qualifications are necessary. Additionally, consider speaking with guidance counselors at your high school, who can provide further information about available pathways into the field of nursing.

Overall, pursuing trade school during high school is indeed a great way to start exploring your interest and gain valuable skills and experience that may benefit you later in your journey towards becoming a nurse.

Best wishes.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Steven’s Answer

You would probably need to get at least the equivalent of an Associate's Degree (perhaps a bit longer in duration). From having a cousin who's a nurse and hearing nurses speak when I have been in doctor's offices they do need to go through additional schooling after high school, especially RNs, I think NPs also require additional schooling. There is a good guide online for all of this called the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
0