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Addison
Student
Franklin, Tennessee
1
Question
Asked
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How do I even start for being a nurse?
I want to be a neonatal nurse but I don't even know where to start, I'm looking at schools with nursing programs but I want to go up north and I know I need an NCLEP but I don't know anything beyond that and I try to research but I don't know what degree I need and other tests I need to pass and I'm worried I'll do something wrong or miss something important. I took ap human geography and I'm currently dual enrolling classes.
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1 answer
Sijoy Sagar
Program Manager
124
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sijoy’s Answer
Hi Addison,
It's amazing that you already know you want to be a neonatal nurse. Having this clarity is a huge advantage. The journey might seem a bit overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller steps makes it much easier.
Here's how you can start:
1. Degree Path: To become a registered nurse (RN), you’ll need an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Most neonatal nurses choose a BSN because it offers more opportunities.
2. Licensing Exam: After earning your degree, you will take the NCLEX-RN exam. Passing this allows you to work as an RN.
3. Specialization: Once you are an RN, you can gain experience in pediatrics or neonatal units. Some nurses also get advanced certifications in neonatal care.
4. Graduate Options: If you want to advance further, consider a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.
Steps You Can Take Now:
1. Focus on Science: Subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy will give you a strong foundation.
2. Dual Enrollment & AP Classes: These can help you transition smoothly into college.
3. Explore Nursing Programs: Look for universities with BSN programs. Many schools have their prerequisites online.
4. Volunteer or Shadow: Try to volunteer at hospitals or clinics, or shadow nurses to get a feel for the environment.
5. Stay Curious: Read about neonatal care, watch documentaries, or follow nursing forums to keep inspired.
Think of this journey as building blocks: high school → nursing degree → NCLEX → neonatal specialization. You don't have to figure it all out at once, each step will lead you to the next. Your determination and early planning already set you ahead.
Wishing you lots of encouragement and clarity as you begin your journey into nursing.
It's amazing that you already know you want to be a neonatal nurse. Having this clarity is a huge advantage. The journey might seem a bit overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller steps makes it much easier.
Here's how you can start:
1. Degree Path: To become a registered nurse (RN), you’ll need an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Most neonatal nurses choose a BSN because it offers more opportunities.
2. Licensing Exam: After earning your degree, you will take the NCLEX-RN exam. Passing this allows you to work as an RN.
3. Specialization: Once you are an RN, you can gain experience in pediatrics or neonatal units. Some nurses also get advanced certifications in neonatal care.
4. Graduate Options: If you want to advance further, consider a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.
Steps You Can Take Now:
1. Focus on Science: Subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy will give you a strong foundation.
2. Dual Enrollment & AP Classes: These can help you transition smoothly into college.
3. Explore Nursing Programs: Look for universities with BSN programs. Many schools have their prerequisites online.
4. Volunteer or Shadow: Try to volunteer at hospitals or clinics, or shadow nurses to get a feel for the environment.
5. Stay Curious: Read about neonatal care, watch documentaries, or follow nursing forums to keep inspired.
Think of this journey as building blocks: high school → nursing degree → NCLEX → neonatal specialization. You don't have to figure it all out at once, each step will lead you to the next. Your determination and early planning already set you ahead.
Wishing you lots of encouragement and clarity as you begin your journey into nursing.