Become a Nurse
As our population continues to age, so does the need for qualified nurses. At the present time there is a shortage of nurses and nursing educators which makes it an excellent career choice for those who are nurturing and like to help others. Although nursing can be a very challenging and demanding occupation with long hours, it comes with its own rewards.
The nursing industry boosts job stability because it is such a growing industry that is in need of qualified and compassionate people. If this is an industry that appeals to you then it is important to make a plan, set a time line and research your nursing careers options.
Preparation is Key
In order to attend nursing school you first must obtain your high school diploma or your GED. If you are presently still in high school then you will need to take courses with a concentration in math and science including algebra, biology, chemistry and physics. You will also need to obtain your credits in English. The better grades you make overall, the better off you will be in terms of getting into the nursing school of your choice. Be aware that studying for a nursing degree is very rigorous and that is why you must demonstrate that you can handle an intensive level of academic work.
Do You Have a Nurse’s Personality Traits?
Besides good grades and your grade point average, programs that accept those interested in becoming nurses are looking for individuals of a certain temperament. There are certain personality traits that exemplify the profession such as compassion, the ability to think for yourself, a pleasant demeanor, common sense and the ability to handle an abundance of stress. Most nursing programs also deem it necessary for applicants to pass an entrance examination. This exam measures both your aptitude and your potential for success in the program.
RN or LPN- Which is for You?
In the United States there are two different types of nursing designations. The one that is most well known is the RN or Registered Nurse. There is another one however, which is the Licensed Practical Nurse, or is simply known as LPN. In some states LPN’s are called Licensed Vocational Nurses or LVN’s.
Becoming an RN is the more advanced of the two and it requires a longer period of study. To become a Registered Nurse generally takes anywhere from two to four years of intensive study.
Three Different Routes to Becoming a Nurse
If you wish to obtain a registered nursing degree, then there are three different ways to go about it. First, you could enroll in a community college and study for a traditional Bachelor of Science degree in nursing which would take you four years to complete. It would be best to search a list of nursing schools .
Secondly, you could attend either a community college or technical college and work towards an Associate’s degree in nursing which would take you anywhere from two to three years to finish.
The third and final option is to obtain the necessary training by way of a hospital diploma plan where you would work in a hospital and learn directly from other nurses and nursing educators. You would also be required to take college classes at a local community college in subjects unrelated to the nursing trade.
The first two options are by far the most common and most popular for those interested in entering the nursing profession. The third option was once very common but has since become much less so.
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