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how do you seek to achieve your career goals in nursing?
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Steve to determine which route would be ideal for you, consider whether you learn best in a classroom setting or online. Something as small as the environment you learn in could make or break your chance at becoming an RN so keep these factors in mind when choosing which programs to apply to. Understanding all of your options will allow you to decide how soon you enter the workforce. You can fast-track your journey to become an RN and knock two years off your study. An associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) are the two most common fast-track options. Both ways do require you to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure examination post your degree.
ADN - COMMUNITY COLLEGE
The way to become an RN with the lowest level of education is to go through an associate’s degree in nursing or ADN program. Most ADN programs are two years long and are held at community colleges. There are numerous options to choose from, including part-time and full-time programs. Full-time programs typically last two years and follow a regular college schedule with winter breaks and summer holidays. Part-time ADN programs are often available, which usually offer fewer classes per semester with a longer overall program length and fewer breaks.
BSN - UNIVERSITY
Since many job postings prefer to hire only BSN-prepared nurses and it is correlated with improved patient outcomes, it is increasingly recommended to choose to pursue a BSN straight away. Much like with ADN programs, there are various options for completing the degree. Traditional BSN programs are four years long and take place on campus at universities. There are also part-time programs, which offer students more flexibility, as mentioned above with most ADN programs.
ROLL AND RESPONSIBILITY OF A RN
Skills and Responsibilities: RNs are responsible for assessing patients' changing conditions and keeping members of the medical team informed, as well as monitoring and interpreting vital signs in conjunction with patients’ health history. In addition to starting IV access and administering medications, nurses educate patients, exhibit strong communication skills and manage the overall safety and well-being of each patient. RNs have the opportunity to work in many different areas. The majority of nurses are employed in acute care settings, such as emergency rooms, intensive care units or specialty units of the hospital. But hospitals are not the only facilities that employ RNs. Outpatient surgery centers, infusion centers, doctor's offices and home health agencies are just a few examples of common places that hire RNs.
ADN - COMMUNITY COLLEGE
The way to become an RN with the lowest level of education is to go through an associate’s degree in nursing or ADN program. Most ADN programs are two years long and are held at community colleges. There are numerous options to choose from, including part-time and full-time programs. Full-time programs typically last two years and follow a regular college schedule with winter breaks and summer holidays. Part-time ADN programs are often available, which usually offer fewer classes per semester with a longer overall program length and fewer breaks.
BSN - UNIVERSITY
Since many job postings prefer to hire only BSN-prepared nurses and it is correlated with improved patient outcomes, it is increasingly recommended to choose to pursue a BSN straight away. Much like with ADN programs, there are various options for completing the degree. Traditional BSN programs are four years long and take place on campus at universities. There are also part-time programs, which offer students more flexibility, as mentioned above with most ADN programs.
ROLL AND RESPONSIBILITY OF A RN
Skills and Responsibilities: RNs are responsible for assessing patients' changing conditions and keeping members of the medical team informed, as well as monitoring and interpreting vital signs in conjunction with patients’ health history. In addition to starting IV access and administering medications, nurses educate patients, exhibit strong communication skills and manage the overall safety and well-being of each patient. RNs have the opportunity to work in many different areas. The majority of nurses are employed in acute care settings, such as emergency rooms, intensive care units or specialty units of the hospital. But hospitals are not the only facilities that employ RNs. Outpatient surgery centers, infusion centers, doctor's offices and home health agencies are just a few examples of common places that hire RNs.
James Constantine Frangos
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Steve,
Here's a comprehensive guide on how to reach your career objectives in the field of nursing. This strategy includes educational attainment, skill enhancement, networking, and continuous professional development. Follow these steps to effectively chase your nursing career dreams.
1. Identify Your Career Objectives
The initial step towards achieving your career objectives is to precisely identify them. Reflect on these questions:
Which nursing field captivates your interest (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency care)?
Do you aim for a leadership role or a specialty in a specific field?
Are there particular certifications or degrees you wish to earn?
By responding to these questions, you can devise a targeted plan that aligns with your passions and abilities.
2. Undertake Appropriate Education and Training
Education is fundamental in nursing. Depending on your existing qualifications, consider these educational routes:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A two-year program that readies you for beginner roles.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year degree that offers more opportunities for progression and specialization.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Programs: If you're targeting roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), a master's or doctoral degree is crucial.
Moreover, stay current on continuing education requirements and explore workshops or courses that boost your skills.
3. Accumulate Hands-on Experience
Practical experience is priceless in nursing. Seek opportunities such as:
Internships or externships during your academic journey.
Volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
Part-time roles as a nursing assistant or technician while you're studying.
These experiences not only enrich your resume but also help you develop crucial clinical skills and understand different specialties.
4. Acquire Certifications
Certifications can distinguish you from other applicants and showcase your dedication to the profession. Consider earning certifications relevant to your chosen specialty, like:
Basic Life Support (BLS)
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
Investigate which certifications are respected in your chosen nursing field and pursue them accordingly.
5. Establish a Professional Network
Networking is essential in any profession, including nursing. Connect with professionals through:
Nursing associations (e.g., American Nurses Association)
Local healthcare gatherings
Online platforms such as LinkedIn
Cultivating relationships with mentors can offer guidance, job opportunities, and support throughout your career path.
6. Keep Up-to-date on Industry Trends
Healthcare is a constantly changing field; staying updated on new technologies, practices, and regulations is crucial. Subscribe to trustworthy nursing journals, attend conferences, and join webinars to stay informed about industry changes.
7. Pursue Leadership Opportunities
If you're keen on progressing into leadership roles:
Offer to take committee roles within your workplace.
Take on charge nurse duties when possible.
Seek additional training in management or administration.
Showing leadership qualities early will prepare you for future roles as nurse managers or directors.
8. Establish Short-term and Long-term Objectives
Break your overall career objectives into smaller, achievable targets:
Short-term objectives could include earning a certification within six months.
Long-term objectives might involve earning an advanced degree within five years.
Regularly revisit these objectives and modify them as needed based on your progress and evolving interests.
9. Regularly Evaluate Your Progress
Periodically assess your position regarding your career objectives:
Are you meeting set deadlines?
Have new interests surfaced?
Reflection enables proactive rather than reactive adjustments.
By diligently following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to reach your nursing career objectives while significantly contributing to patient care and the healthcare community.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Nurses Association
A prominent organization representing registered nurses across the United States, providing resources on education standards and professional development.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing
A governing body overseeing licensing requirements for nurses and offering information on best practices within the profession.
Journal of Nursing Scholarship
A peer-reviewed journal publishing research articles related to nursing practice, education, policy, and leadership trends impacting the nursing field.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Here's a comprehensive guide on how to reach your career objectives in the field of nursing. This strategy includes educational attainment, skill enhancement, networking, and continuous professional development. Follow these steps to effectively chase your nursing career dreams.
1. Identify Your Career Objectives
The initial step towards achieving your career objectives is to precisely identify them. Reflect on these questions:
Which nursing field captivates your interest (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency care)?
Do you aim for a leadership role or a specialty in a specific field?
Are there particular certifications or degrees you wish to earn?
By responding to these questions, you can devise a targeted plan that aligns with your passions and abilities.
2. Undertake Appropriate Education and Training
Education is fundamental in nursing. Depending on your existing qualifications, consider these educational routes:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A two-year program that readies you for beginner roles.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year degree that offers more opportunities for progression and specialization.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Programs: If you're targeting roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), a master's or doctoral degree is crucial.
Moreover, stay current on continuing education requirements and explore workshops or courses that boost your skills.
3. Accumulate Hands-on Experience
Practical experience is priceless in nursing. Seek opportunities such as:
Internships or externships during your academic journey.
Volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
Part-time roles as a nursing assistant or technician while you're studying.
These experiences not only enrich your resume but also help you develop crucial clinical skills and understand different specialties.
4. Acquire Certifications
Certifications can distinguish you from other applicants and showcase your dedication to the profession. Consider earning certifications relevant to your chosen specialty, like:
Basic Life Support (BLS)
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
Investigate which certifications are respected in your chosen nursing field and pursue them accordingly.
5. Establish a Professional Network
Networking is essential in any profession, including nursing. Connect with professionals through:
Nursing associations (e.g., American Nurses Association)
Local healthcare gatherings
Online platforms such as LinkedIn
Cultivating relationships with mentors can offer guidance, job opportunities, and support throughout your career path.
6. Keep Up-to-date on Industry Trends
Healthcare is a constantly changing field; staying updated on new technologies, practices, and regulations is crucial. Subscribe to trustworthy nursing journals, attend conferences, and join webinars to stay informed about industry changes.
7. Pursue Leadership Opportunities
If you're keen on progressing into leadership roles:
Offer to take committee roles within your workplace.
Take on charge nurse duties when possible.
Seek additional training in management or administration.
Showing leadership qualities early will prepare you for future roles as nurse managers or directors.
8. Establish Short-term and Long-term Objectives
Break your overall career objectives into smaller, achievable targets:
Short-term objectives could include earning a certification within six months.
Long-term objectives might involve earning an advanced degree within five years.
Regularly revisit these objectives and modify them as needed based on your progress and evolving interests.
9. Regularly Evaluate Your Progress
Periodically assess your position regarding your career objectives:
Are you meeting set deadlines?
Have new interests surfaced?
Reflection enables proactive rather than reactive adjustments.
By diligently following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to reach your nursing career objectives while significantly contributing to patient care and the healthcare community.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Nurses Association
A prominent organization representing registered nurses across the United States, providing resources on education standards and professional development.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing
A governing body overseeing licensing requirements for nurses and offering information on best practices within the profession.
Journal of Nursing Scholarship
A peer-reviewed journal publishing research articles related to nursing practice, education, policy, and leadership trends impacting the nursing field.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
1. Define your aspirations: Pinpoint your ultimate goals in your nursing career, be it specializing in a certain field, advancing your education, or stepping into leadership roles. Having well-defined objectives will keep you driven and on track.
2. Secure the right education and certifications: A robust educational background is a must in nursing. Earn a nursing degree from a recognized institution and think about acquiring extra certifications to boost your expertise and abilities in particular nursing areas.
3. Acquire real-world experience: Actively look for opportunities to gain practical experience, such as internships, clinical rotations, or volunteering. This hands-on experience will not only broaden your nursing comprehension but also lay a solid groundwork for your career.
4. Build professional connections: Establishing a professional network is vital in nursing. Participate in industry conferences, become a member of nursing organizations, and forge relationships with other professionals in your field. Networking can lead to new prospects and offer much-needed support and guidance.
5. Keep learning and enhancing your skills: Nursing is a constantly changing field, making it crucial to stay abreast of the latest research, innovations, and best practices. Engage in continuous education courses, participate in workshops, and take part in professional development activities to keep your knowledge and skills sharp.
6. Find a mentor: Seek out seasoned nurses who can offer mentorship and guidance on your career path. Mentors can provide invaluable insights, advice, and support as you traverse your nursing journey.
7. Remain dedicated and flexible: Nursing can be demanding, but it's essential to uphold a strong work ethic, commitment, and flexibility. Welcome growth opportunities, stay open to change, and keep your dedication to delivering top-notch patient care.
Remember, everyone's journey is distinct, and it's crucial to customize your approach to match your individual goals and dreams in nursing.
2. Secure the right education and certifications: A robust educational background is a must in nursing. Earn a nursing degree from a recognized institution and think about acquiring extra certifications to boost your expertise and abilities in particular nursing areas.
3. Acquire real-world experience: Actively look for opportunities to gain practical experience, such as internships, clinical rotations, or volunteering. This hands-on experience will not only broaden your nursing comprehension but also lay a solid groundwork for your career.
4. Build professional connections: Establishing a professional network is vital in nursing. Participate in industry conferences, become a member of nursing organizations, and forge relationships with other professionals in your field. Networking can lead to new prospects and offer much-needed support and guidance.
5. Keep learning and enhancing your skills: Nursing is a constantly changing field, making it crucial to stay abreast of the latest research, innovations, and best practices. Engage in continuous education courses, participate in workshops, and take part in professional development activities to keep your knowledge and skills sharp.
6. Find a mentor: Seek out seasoned nurses who can offer mentorship and guidance on your career path. Mentors can provide invaluable insights, advice, and support as you traverse your nursing journey.
7. Remain dedicated and flexible: Nursing can be demanding, but it's essential to uphold a strong work ethic, commitment, and flexibility. Welcome growth opportunities, stay open to change, and keep your dedication to delivering top-notch patient care.
Remember, everyone's journey is distinct, and it's crucial to customize your approach to match your individual goals and dreams in nursing.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Steve !
Choosing a career in Nursing is an awesome venture especially since you live in a major city that may provide a lot of opportunities for you. You have taken a beneficial step by coming to Career Village to ask for advice and information about becoming a nurse.
One of the first things that you can do is inquire if your school already offers a nursing program. Many high schools offer this to students in 11th and 12th grade. Another path to becoming a Nurse is to attend a college Nursing Program. Explore these colleges in L.A. that offer an Associates degree in Nursing: Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health, Angeles College, East Los Angeles College, Los Angeles Valley College, and many more that you can explore. So, before you graduate high school, you can go for orientations at these and other colleges to see which ones you would like to apply to.
You achieve your goals by taking it a step at a time. While you are still in high school participate in any extracurriculars that are related to health. Be involved in and attend any health fairs in your community. You could also visit your school nurse and ask her if she knows of any opportunities that you might be involved in now. I would also suggest finding volunteer opportunities out in the community - maybe not in a hospital, rather it may be in a nursing home or a clinic. Even if you do reception, data entry or non-patient duties, it will be good for you to obtain an introduction to those environments.
Become a member of HOSA Future Health Professionals through which you can get college prep, scholarships, attend conferences and more. I have left a link for you below to their website. Also ask your school nurse or your local hospital where you can obtain certifications in both CPR and First Aid. These are some of the steps that you can take now before college. The most important thing will be college and your Degree, so fill your time with doable activities until then. You will begin to feel accomplished once you are actively involved.
In High School, take a path of Biology, Anatomy and Chemistry for a long as you can. This will give you a good foundation before Nursing School. I would also suggest that you become familiar with medical terminology which you will have to know for nursing. I left a link to a booklet on Medical Terminology to get you started. So, basically, what you should do now is study the necessary subjects so you will be familiar with what you learn in Nursing School.
In your spare time, you can always go to You Tube and watch videos about Nursing. I have left a couple of links below to get you started but there are a great variety of nursing videos on You Tube that you can do a search for.
I hope that this helps and I wish you all the best !
HOSA FUTURE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS https://hosa.org/
INTRODUCTION TO MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY 45 PAGE BOOKLET WITH WEBSITE REFERRALS https://www.lksnorth.nhs.uk/media/2835/introduction-to-medical-terminology.pdf
WHAT DO NURSES ACTUALLY DO ? [VIDEO] https://youtu.be/d0K6EVB1KnU?si=ahKz4PFw8wGKAi8q
70 TYPES OF NURSING [VIDEO] https://youtu.be/fQDpf3Mi2IY?si=sqgkD9vKiUqu-AuC
Choosing a career in Nursing is an awesome venture especially since you live in a major city that may provide a lot of opportunities for you. You have taken a beneficial step by coming to Career Village to ask for advice and information about becoming a nurse.
One of the first things that you can do is inquire if your school already offers a nursing program. Many high schools offer this to students in 11th and 12th grade. Another path to becoming a Nurse is to attend a college Nursing Program. Explore these colleges in L.A. that offer an Associates degree in Nursing: Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health, Angeles College, East Los Angeles College, Los Angeles Valley College, and many more that you can explore. So, before you graduate high school, you can go for orientations at these and other colleges to see which ones you would like to apply to.
You achieve your goals by taking it a step at a time. While you are still in high school participate in any extracurriculars that are related to health. Be involved in and attend any health fairs in your community. You could also visit your school nurse and ask her if she knows of any opportunities that you might be involved in now. I would also suggest finding volunteer opportunities out in the community - maybe not in a hospital, rather it may be in a nursing home or a clinic. Even if you do reception, data entry or non-patient duties, it will be good for you to obtain an introduction to those environments.
Become a member of HOSA Future Health Professionals through which you can get college prep, scholarships, attend conferences and more. I have left a link for you below to their website. Also ask your school nurse or your local hospital where you can obtain certifications in both CPR and First Aid. These are some of the steps that you can take now before college. The most important thing will be college and your Degree, so fill your time with doable activities until then. You will begin to feel accomplished once you are actively involved.
In High School, take a path of Biology, Anatomy and Chemistry for a long as you can. This will give you a good foundation before Nursing School. I would also suggest that you become familiar with medical terminology which you will have to know for nursing. I left a link to a booklet on Medical Terminology to get you started. So, basically, what you should do now is study the necessary subjects so you will be familiar with what you learn in Nursing School.
In your spare time, you can always go to You Tube and watch videos about Nursing. I have left a couple of links below to get you started but there are a great variety of nursing videos on You Tube that you can do a search for.
I hope that this helps and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
guillaumine’s Answer
Establishing long-term objectives for your nursing career is essential, as doing so can aid in your professional growth. Achieving these goals can enhance your job satisfaction and help prevent burnout. By setting career goals, you can:
- Plan for the future
- Continuously develop your skills
- Increase your earning potential
- Experience fulfillment
Nursing certifications are a versatile tool that can benefit you at any stage of your career, whether you are just starting or aiming for advancement. You can gain a competitive edge over other candidates by obtaining certification in an area of interest, such as first aid, clinical research skills, pediatrics, oncology, or neonatology.
Consider specializing in the following areas of medicine:
- Outpatient care
- Cardiovascular (caring for patients with heart and blood disorders)
- Dialysis (removal of waste from a patient's kidneys)
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatrics (caring for elderly adults)
- Holistic care
- Infection control and prevention
- Medical-surgical
- Neonatal (caring for newborns)
- Neuroscience
- Obstetrics (caring for pregnant women and new mothers)
- Oncology (caring for patients with tumors)
- Orthopedics (caring for patients with bone and muscle issues)
- Pediatrics or child healthcare
- Psychiatric or mental health care
- Plan for the future
- Continuously develop your skills
- Increase your earning potential
- Experience fulfillment
Nursing certifications are a versatile tool that can benefit you at any stage of your career, whether you are just starting or aiming for advancement. You can gain a competitive edge over other candidates by obtaining certification in an area of interest, such as first aid, clinical research skills, pediatrics, oncology, or neonatology.
Consider specializing in the following areas of medicine:
- Outpatient care
- Cardiovascular (caring for patients with heart and blood disorders)
- Dialysis (removal of waste from a patient's kidneys)
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatrics (caring for elderly adults)
- Holistic care
- Infection control and prevention
- Medical-surgical
- Neonatal (caring for newborns)
- Neuroscience
- Obstetrics (caring for pregnant women and new mothers)
- Oncology (caring for patients with tumors)
- Orthopedics (caring for patients with bone and muscle issues)
- Pediatrics or child healthcare
- Psychiatric or mental health care