Chart Your Path To A Nursing Profession

Posted by The Popular News Today on Tuesday, April 24, 2012

By Brianna Everplaston


There is always a dire need for registered nurses. Insurance companies, hospitals, clinics, schools, camps, and other places have continual openings for nurses. The option for working as a medical researcher or consultant is also available for registered nurses. Unfortunately, even though there are over three million registered nurses in the country, the US has suffered from a shortage of nurses in the last decade. The current shortage is set to get even worse in the coming years. Not enough nurses can be found to fill the positions available, although nursing is a job many would desire to have. If this position interests you, the field is ready and waiting.

There are many jobs a registered nurse must undertake. They work alongside doctors in varying capacities. Registered nurses help doctors by caring for patients. Nurses who get advanced certifications assist with the care of specific segments of the population such as children or pregnant women. Like most professions, your are of service will be determined by your qualifications. Registered nurses with qualifications that allow them to become nurse practitioners are capable of performing many of the responsibilities ordinarily assigned to a doctor. They provide diagnoses and write prescriptions for medications.

For those of you who have not yet graduated from high school, load your schedule with science instruction. These classes include chemistry and biology. You will also need to score well on either the ACT or SAT to be accepted into a degree program for nursing. The higher the score you achieve, the better your chances are for entering the best nursing schools. Also, do not overlook the personal gratification you receive from a high score.

After high school, you have four options: the two-year associate's degree, the three-year diploma program, the four-year bachelor's degree, or the six-year master's degree. If you intend to be a nurse practitioner, you will need to get a master's degree. The bachelor's and master's degrees include scientific and theoretical studies in administration as well as care of the patient. The shorter programs focus on direct contact with the patients, preparing a student for hands-on patient care. If you choose one of the shorter programs, you can choose to get more education at a future date. Regardless of your path, it is important that you study with an institution that is recognized by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Before you are allowed to work as a nurse, even with your nursing degree, you need to become licensed. To become license, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Registered nurses are required to periodically renew their licenses. This will keep you abreast of the latest changes in the medical field, making you qualified to continue in this profession. If you move to another state, you might also be required to retake your licensing test depending on the views of the state's nursing board.

Get yourself a ground floor position as a staff nurse as your first step in your nursing career. You can then progress through hard work and a commitment to your patients. Swallow your pride and be willing to accept helpful criticism and ask for guidance whenever needed. Apply what you have learned in school programs, clinical experience, and volunteer work, and show your colleagues and patients that you know what you are doing. To advance your career, take higher studies and earn more certifications.

Registered nurses are vital to the health of the nation. There will always be a need for nurses as more people call this planet home. If you like to help others and have a solid work ethic, becoming a registered nurse is a fitting and exciting career possibility.




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