Careers in Care: How to Start a Career as a Nurse

May 30 2023 - Did you know that there are nearly 4.2 million registered nurses in America?

As a society, we've come to depend on nurses in the care industry to assist us in navigating through life's complex systems. They ensure that we have appropriate levels of coverage and access to care.

Nurses are some of the most respected members of society, and they also tend to make a fair bit of money. But what do you need to start a career as a nurse? Let's go over all of that info here.

Research the Requirements

To become a nurse, it is necessary to complete requirements in education, training, and licensing. Some educational paths available involve certificates, associate's degrees, or bachelor's degrees in nursing.

You might also want to consider taking STNA classes. Students will learn the basics of anatomy, physiology, and nutrition, and they'll understand how the body functions. Check out this article to learn more about STNA classes.

After education, they should take clinical training in an approved healthcare setting. Then take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

After passing the exam, the individual will have full licensing as a nurse. At this point, they can start their career as a registered nurse.

It will also require membership in professional nursing organizations such as the American Nurses Association. This includes a yearly renewal of enrollment to maintain a valid license.

Understand Different Nursing Roles

Nursing roles are varied, diverse, and essential components of the healthcare system. Those interested in starting a nursing career should become familiar with different roles. The most common nursing roles are registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, and advanced practice registered nurse.

Registered nurses are responsible for patient comfort, health education, and providing medical treatments. Licensed practical nurses provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs. Advanced practice registered nurses include nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and nurse practitioners.

Explore these roles to figure out which one is best suited for your career ambitions. Core competencies and education requirements vary for each. Choosing the right one is essential for a successful nursing career.

Find the Right Nursing Education Program

It's important to think about how long the school will last, how much it will cost, and how good the education will be. Check out programs that have been approved by a national group that approves nursing programs. This will make sure that the courses, jobs, and teachers all meet a certain level of quality.

Make sure the school covers both the theory and practice of nursing care so that you can understand the basics. Also, you should go to the school in person. Ask questions to make sure that the faculty and the group will work well together.

Lastly, look for online classes and certifications to add to what you've already learned. This will help you learn more about what you need to know. By researching programs, you can make an informed choice and find the best nursing education program for your job.

Initiating a Career as a Nurse

Becoming a nurse can be immensely rewarding and fulfilling. Every day can be a new challenge and those in the field can find satisfaction in helping patients heal.

The good news is that if you have the drive and dedication, you can start a career as a nurse today. Reach out to your local college to start learning the qualifications for becoming a successful nurse.

Check out our website for more information on how we can help with your career goals.

• More Career Articles