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How can I become a registered nurse?

What does the path look like to become a registered nurse? Are there specific classes I need to take?

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Bhavna’s Answer

The path to becoming a registered nurse begins with earning an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing. This usually takes two to four years depending on the program you select and the degree you pursue. After graduating from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the next step is to pass the National Council for Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once the test is completed and the necessary licensing is obtained, you will be able to practice as a registered nurse.

Specific classes you need to take vary depending on the college or university you are attending, but typically include general education courses, such as English, math, science and psychology, as well as specialized courses focusing on chemistry and anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Clinical courses and practice experiences are also commonly required to help you gain practical experience in working with patients.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear CVOH,

Embarking on a Career as a Registered Nurse

Embarking on a career as a registered nurse (RN) involves a distinct sequence of education, training, and licensing. Here's an actionable guide to help you navigate your way to becoming an RN:

1. Education:

High School Diploma: Begin your journey by obtaining a high school diploma, ideally with a solid grounding in science and math.
Nursing Program: Proceed to join an accredited nursing program. There are multiple routes to becoming an RN, such as securing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

2. Licensure:

NCLEX-RN Exam: Upon completion of the nursing program, you'll need to successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam evaluates your knowledge and abilities necessary for safe practice as an entry-level nurse.

3. Additional Steps:

Clinical Experience: Most nursing programs incorporate clinical rotations, providing students with practical experience in diverse healthcare environments.
Specialization: Once licensed, RNs can opt for specialized certifications or advanced degrees in fields like pediatrics, oncology, or critical care.

Specific Classes: The exact classes can differ based on the nursing program, but aspiring RNs typically need to take courses such as:

Anatomy and Physiology
Microbiology
Pharmacology
Nursing Ethics
Nursing Care of Adults
Maternal and Child Health Nursing

It's crucial to verify the course requirements with the specific nursing program or institution.

By adhering to these steps and fulfilling the required education, training, and licensure, you can set sail on a fulfilling career as a registered nurse.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): The AACN offers essential information on accredited nursing programs, educational pathways to becoming an RN, and resources for aspiring nurses.

National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): The NCSBN supervises the NCLEX-RN exam and provides details on licensure prerequisites for registered nurses.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides data on job prospects, salary details, and general requirements for various professions, including registered nurses.

May God Bless You!
James.
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Lorraine’s Answer

The two main pathways to becoming a registered nurse is by attending an Associate Degree Program or Baccalaureate Degree Program. The most important aspect is to make sure the program you are attending is accredited by the state. In California you can go to California Board of Registered Nursing website: https://www.rn.ca.gov/ and under Education review all accredited registered nurse programs in the state.
Most registered nurse programs have prerequisite courses to complete prior to being accepted in program. You can go to school of choice and review requirements needed for the program. You will need to science courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry. Most programs may require a math and English course.
Nursing is a great field to work in, best of luck pursuing your goals!
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Kara’s Answer

The first step to becoming a Registered Nurse is researching then selecting and finally applying to the college you've selected to obtain your degree. There are community colleges which offer an associate degree and universities offering a bachelor degree.
Don't worry you won't be on your own trying to figure out what classes you'll need to take. At either community college or a university the path to becoming an RN is clearly laid out for you. Although, at the community college level you will take course prerequisites prior to admission into the nursing program. If you're attending a university these prerequisites will be included in the program.
Whatever you decide, as a nursing student, you will have tons of support and direction. It may seem overwhelming, but it's not, it's very doable!
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EZINNA EDGE’s Answer

You can become a registered nurse by obtaining a Bachelors degree in Nursing (BNS) or obtaining an associate degree in Nursing order to get licensed. It should however be noted that this is state dependent. The next step is to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
Sure, there are always specific classes to take and for someone on the path of becoming a registered nurse classes on anatomy, physiology, biology, etc., will go a long way. Although more information can be gotten from the specific college or university you intend getting your degree from.
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Jara’s Answer

First you apply to a college nursing program. This could be a BSN or ADN. They both fall under the umbrella of RN. The ADN usually takes 2 years and the BSN takes 4 years. It is easier to find a job if you have the BSN. And even jobs that will hire nurses with an ADN often require them to get a BSN within a few years. Some college programs will admit students to the nursing program as Freshmen. Other colleges will put them in a pre-nursing program and then they have to apply for the nursing program for their sophomore year. After they graduate, they will have to take the NCLEX-RN exam. There is a different NCLEX for LPNs. After passing the exam, they are licensed RNs.
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