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When becoming a nurse what do you do ?
Little backstory of me so I’m finishing up my hs credits in finishing school and i’ll get my highschool diploma and a certificate for taking phlebotomy courses (only course they offer at my school) now lets say I want to be a L&D nurse what would be my next step? Apply to nursing school? I want to be a registered nurse and work at hospitals can someone please help me figure out my next step please!:( ?
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Ale,
Nursing is indeed a noble profession, filled with opportunities to make a difference in people's lives every day. In Australia, we have Nurse's Aides who perform important tasks such as assisting patients with dressing or showering, preventing slips and falls. This is particularly crucial for elderly patients, who are at a higher risk of fractures. In the USA, these professionals are known as Nurse Assistants.
Enrolled Nurses and Registered Nurses form the backbone of our healthcare system, performing a wide range of duties including administering pharmaceutical drugs. At the top end of the nursing spectrum, we have Nurse Practitioners who are capable of performing advanced procedures such as running a wound clinic and treating refractory diabetic ulcers.
As a dietitian-nutritionist, I've had the pleasure of teaching Enrolled Nurses about Therapeutic Nutrition. This knowledge allows them to understand the reasoning behind various dietary modifications. I've also been a patient myself, spending 153 days in hospital under the care of a Nurse with a doctorate in Nursing. Her expertise was truly remarkable and she could potentially become a Professor of Nursing, educating future generations of nurses.
I've observed that the most skilled nurses are adept at performing tasks like phlebotomy (drawing blood) with minimal discomfort to the patient. This is just one of the many skills a nurse brings to their role.
Gwynedd Mercy University in Philadelphia recognizes 20 types of Nurses, each with its own unique role, educational requirements, job growth prospects, employment locations, relevant certifications, and salary. Here's a brief overview:
1. Registered Nurse (RN): These nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and offer advice and emotional support to patients and their families. They often work in teams with physicians and other healthcare specialists.
2. Cardiac Nurse: Specializing in heart-related issues, these nurses assist with surgical procedures such as bypass, angioplasty, or pacemaker surgery.
3. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): These highly trained nurses assist with anesthesia during surgeries.
4. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): These advanced practice nurses provide direct patient care, work with other nurses to improve care quality, and often serve in leadership roles.
5. Critical Care Nurse: Trained for emergency situations, these nurses tend to serious wounds and monitor life support systems in stressful scenarios.
6. ER Nurse: Working in the emergency room, these nurses perform a variety of tasks after evaluating and stabilizing a patient.
7. Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): These practitioners provide primary health care services for all ages, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, conducting physical exams, and prescribing medications.
8. Geriatric Nursing: These nurses specialize in the treatment of older patients, providing care for injuries, illnesses, and maintaining their quality of life.
9. Perioperative Nurse (Surgical/OR Nurse): These nurses focus on pre- and post-operation care for a patient, including setting up surgical rooms and managing tools for operations.
10. Mental Health Nurse: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders, these nurses also often provide counseling services.
11. Nurse Educator: They are responsible for teaching nursing students about patient care.
12. Nurse Manager: These professionals handle tasks that include recruitment of nurses, creating schedules, and making decisions regarding budget and management.
13. Nurse Midwife: These nurses specialize in the care of pregnant women, assisting in labor and delivery, as well as in prenatal appointments.
14. Nurse Practitioner: Serving as primary and specialty care providers, these professionals deliver advanced nursing services to patients and their families.
15. Nursing Administrator: Overseeing entire units of nursing teams, these professionals ensure the smooth and effective operation of the unit.
16. Oncology Nurse: Specializing in cancer treatment, these nurses educate patients about their treatment options and monitor their progress and symptoms.
17. Orthopedic Nurse: Focusing on musculoskeletal issues and diseases, these nurses assist in caring for physical issues and managing diseases.
18. Pediatric Nurse: Specializing in care for children from infancy to teenage years, these nurses perform physical examinations, diagnose illnesses, and develop treatment plans.
19. Public Health Nurse: Advocating and teaching communities about important health information, these nurses educate patients about treatment options and disease prevention.
20. Travel Nurse: Unique in their ability to move from location to location based on their contract, these nurses interact with patients from numerous locations.
I hope this information is helpful to you, Ale. Remember, the world of nursing is vast and filled with opportunities to make a difference.
Best,
Jim.
Nursing is indeed a noble profession, filled with opportunities to make a difference in people's lives every day. In Australia, we have Nurse's Aides who perform important tasks such as assisting patients with dressing or showering, preventing slips and falls. This is particularly crucial for elderly patients, who are at a higher risk of fractures. In the USA, these professionals are known as Nurse Assistants.
Enrolled Nurses and Registered Nurses form the backbone of our healthcare system, performing a wide range of duties including administering pharmaceutical drugs. At the top end of the nursing spectrum, we have Nurse Practitioners who are capable of performing advanced procedures such as running a wound clinic and treating refractory diabetic ulcers.
As a dietitian-nutritionist, I've had the pleasure of teaching Enrolled Nurses about Therapeutic Nutrition. This knowledge allows them to understand the reasoning behind various dietary modifications. I've also been a patient myself, spending 153 days in hospital under the care of a Nurse with a doctorate in Nursing. Her expertise was truly remarkable and she could potentially become a Professor of Nursing, educating future generations of nurses.
I've observed that the most skilled nurses are adept at performing tasks like phlebotomy (drawing blood) with minimal discomfort to the patient. This is just one of the many skills a nurse brings to their role.
Gwynedd Mercy University in Philadelphia recognizes 20 types of Nurses, each with its own unique role, educational requirements, job growth prospects, employment locations, relevant certifications, and salary. Here's a brief overview:
1. Registered Nurse (RN): These nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and offer advice and emotional support to patients and their families. They often work in teams with physicians and other healthcare specialists.
2. Cardiac Nurse: Specializing in heart-related issues, these nurses assist with surgical procedures such as bypass, angioplasty, or pacemaker surgery.
3. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): These highly trained nurses assist with anesthesia during surgeries.
4. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): These advanced practice nurses provide direct patient care, work with other nurses to improve care quality, and often serve in leadership roles.
5. Critical Care Nurse: Trained for emergency situations, these nurses tend to serious wounds and monitor life support systems in stressful scenarios.
6. ER Nurse: Working in the emergency room, these nurses perform a variety of tasks after evaluating and stabilizing a patient.
7. Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): These practitioners provide primary health care services for all ages, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, conducting physical exams, and prescribing medications.
8. Geriatric Nursing: These nurses specialize in the treatment of older patients, providing care for injuries, illnesses, and maintaining their quality of life.
9. Perioperative Nurse (Surgical/OR Nurse): These nurses focus on pre- and post-operation care for a patient, including setting up surgical rooms and managing tools for operations.
10. Mental Health Nurse: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders, these nurses also often provide counseling services.
11. Nurse Educator: They are responsible for teaching nursing students about patient care.
12. Nurse Manager: These professionals handle tasks that include recruitment of nurses, creating schedules, and making decisions regarding budget and management.
13. Nurse Midwife: These nurses specialize in the care of pregnant women, assisting in labor and delivery, as well as in prenatal appointments.
14. Nurse Practitioner: Serving as primary and specialty care providers, these professionals deliver advanced nursing services to patients and their families.
15. Nursing Administrator: Overseeing entire units of nursing teams, these professionals ensure the smooth and effective operation of the unit.
16. Oncology Nurse: Specializing in cancer treatment, these nurses educate patients about their treatment options and monitor their progress and symptoms.
17. Orthopedic Nurse: Focusing on musculoskeletal issues and diseases, these nurses assist in caring for physical issues and managing diseases.
18. Pediatric Nurse: Specializing in care for children from infancy to teenage years, these nurses perform physical examinations, diagnose illnesses, and develop treatment plans.
19. Public Health Nurse: Advocating and teaching communities about important health information, these nurses educate patients about treatment options and disease prevention.
20. Travel Nurse: Unique in their ability to move from location to location based on their contract, these nurses interact with patients from numerous locations.
I hope this information is helpful to you, Ale. Remember, the world of nursing is vast and filled with opportunities to make a difference.
Best,
Jim.
Updated
Siddhartha’s Answer
Hello Ale,
It's very exciting to hear about your interest in a nursing career!
Start by researching the nursing prerequisites at the colleges you're interested in. Every nursing school has different course prerequisites, so it's important to gather this information. You can consult your high school guidance counselor and visit the websites of the nursing schools you're considering.
Here are the steps to become a registered nurse, which are also applicable for a career in L&D nursing:
1. Decide on the type of nursing school you wish to attend
There are three main programs that can qualify you for the nursing exam:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This is the most common and competitive degree for aspiring nurses today. An accredited BSN program usually takes up to four years to complete and is often a requirement for advanced nursing positions.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Offered by many technical and community colleges, an ADN typically takes about two to three years to complete.
Diploma program: While less common, some hospitals still offer nursing diploma programs, which usually take two to three years to complete.
For a detailed guide on obtaining a nursing school degree, refer to this website: https://www.coursera.org/articles/how-to-get-into-nursing-school
2. Pass the nurse licensing exam
After finishing your coursework, you can register for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Most aspiring nurses take the NCLEX-RN one month after graduation. To take the exam, you must meet all the eligibility requirements and apply through your local nurse regulatory body.
3. Obtain a license in your desired practice state
Once you pass the NCLEX-RN exam, you must get a nursing license from the state where you plan to practice. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, so be sure to check with your state's regulatory board.
4. Advance in your practice with a specialization or an advanced degree
After becoming a registered nurse, you can specialize in a specific area or pursue an advanced degree. Options include board certification and advanced degrees such as MSN or DNP.
I hope this information guides you well on your journey. Best of luck with your career!
It's very exciting to hear about your interest in a nursing career!
Start by researching the nursing prerequisites at the colleges you're interested in. Every nursing school has different course prerequisites, so it's important to gather this information. You can consult your high school guidance counselor and visit the websites of the nursing schools you're considering.
Here are the steps to become a registered nurse, which are also applicable for a career in L&D nursing:
1. Decide on the type of nursing school you wish to attend
There are three main programs that can qualify you for the nursing exam:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This is the most common and competitive degree for aspiring nurses today. An accredited BSN program usually takes up to four years to complete and is often a requirement for advanced nursing positions.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Offered by many technical and community colleges, an ADN typically takes about two to three years to complete.
Diploma program: While less common, some hospitals still offer nursing diploma programs, which usually take two to three years to complete.
For a detailed guide on obtaining a nursing school degree, refer to this website: https://www.coursera.org/articles/how-to-get-into-nursing-school
2. Pass the nurse licensing exam
After finishing your coursework, you can register for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Most aspiring nurses take the NCLEX-RN one month after graduation. To take the exam, you must meet all the eligibility requirements and apply through your local nurse regulatory body.
3. Obtain a license in your desired practice state
Once you pass the NCLEX-RN exam, you must get a nursing license from the state where you plan to practice. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, so be sure to check with your state's regulatory board.
4. Advance in your practice with a specialization or an advanced degree
After becoming a registered nurse, you can specialize in a specific area or pursue an advanced degree. Options include board certification and advanced degrees such as MSN or DNP.
I hope this information guides you well on your journey. Best of luck with your career!
Updated
Mandi’s Answer
Hi Ale, I hope you're well. Yes ma'am, if you are about to graduate high school now is the time you will want to start applying to nursing programs.
Registered nurses obtain a bachelors of science in nursing and you must pass the licensing exam when you are finished with the program to be considered an RN. There are career specific continuing education programs that offer certification in what you're most interested in. Which I would highly recommend if you know you want to be a L&D nurse. These certification programs will cover all the stages of labor and delivery, c-sections, best practices, and so much more to make you the best possible nurse you can be. Good luck!
Registered nurses obtain a bachelors of science in nursing and you must pass the licensing exam when you are finished with the program to be considered an RN. There are career specific continuing education programs that offer certification in what you're most interested in. Which I would highly recommend if you know you want to be a L&D nurse. These certification programs will cover all the stages of labor and delivery, c-sections, best practices, and so much more to make you the best possible nurse you can be. Good luck!
Updated
Shelia’s Answer
Nursing is a fantastic profession with many different paths to explore. As a nurse, you could become a certified nursing assistant (CNA), a licensed practical nurse (LPN), a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), or even a registered nurse (RN). Ever thought about volunteering at a hospital? It's a great way to get a feel for the nursing field and can help you figure out which nursing role suits you best. You may surprise yourself and decide labor and delivery is not your top choice.
It appears you are leaning to working alongside a doctor's practice versus medical team? If so, becoming a CNA or LPN/LVN could be a great fit for you. If you're interested in earning an associate or bachelor's degree, then becoming an RN could be an excellent choice, offering many opportunities for growth.
Why not consider earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing to become an RN? Nursing is a competitive field, so you'll need good grades and a strong performance on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) to get accepted into a Nursing Program. Once you're in, you'll need to pass all your classes and participate in clinical rotations, which will give you hands-on experience in nursing. After you've earned your degree, you'll need to apply for your state license and pass the National Council Licensure Examination - Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to get your nursing license.
It appears you are leaning to working alongside a doctor's practice versus medical team? If so, becoming a CNA or LPN/LVN could be a great fit for you. If you're interested in earning an associate or bachelor's degree, then becoming an RN could be an excellent choice, offering many opportunities for growth.
Why not consider earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing to become an RN? Nursing is a competitive field, so you'll need good grades and a strong performance on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) to get accepted into a Nursing Program. Once you're in, you'll need to pass all your classes and participate in clinical rotations, which will give you hands-on experience in nursing. After you've earned your degree, you'll need to apply for your state license and pass the National Council Licensure Examination - Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to get your nursing license.
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Certainly, I'd be happy to guide you through the steps to become a Labor and Delivery (L&D) nurse. It's an admirable career choice! Here's what you can do next:
1. **Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN):** To become a registered nurse (RN), you have two main educational paths. A BSN typically takes four years, while an ADN takes two to three years. Both programs include coursework in nursing fundamentals, anatomy, physiology, and clinical rotations.
2. **Prerequisite Courses:** Research nursing programs and check their specific prerequisites. These may include courses in biology, chemistry, and math. Since you've taken phlebotomy courses, you likely have a head start on some prerequisites.
3. **Nursing School Application:** Once you meet the prerequisites, apply to nursing schools that offer the program you prefer (BSN or ADN). Be prepared for a competitive admission process, and make sure to highlight your phlebotomy certificate and any relevant experience on your application.
4. **Financial Aid:** Explore financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans, to help cover the cost of your nursing education.
5. **Clinical Rotations:** During nursing school, you'll participate in clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, which will provide hands-on experience in nursing care.
6. **NCLEX-RN Exam:** After completing your nursing program, you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse.
7. **L&D Nursing Specialty:** Once you're a licensed RN, you can pursue a career in L&D nursing. Look for hospitals or healthcare facilities that offer L&D nursing positions.
8. **Certification and Continuing Education:** Consider becoming certified in obstetric nursing through organizations like the National Certification Corporation (NCC). Continuing education will also be essential to stay updated in your specialty.
9. **Networking:** Connect with nurses and professionals in the field, attend nursing conferences, and consider joining organizations like the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN).
10. **Professional Growth:** Over time, you can explore different roles within L&D nursing, such as becoming a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) or advancing to leadership positions.
Remember that becoming a nurse requires dedication, hard work, and a strong commitment to patient care. Your phlebotomy certificate and any healthcare experience you gain will be valuable assets as you pursue your goal of becoming an L&D nurse. Continue to seek guidance from educators and mentors in the field to help you navigate this rewarding career path successfully.
1. **Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN):** To become a registered nurse (RN), you have two main educational paths. A BSN typically takes four years, while an ADN takes two to three years. Both programs include coursework in nursing fundamentals, anatomy, physiology, and clinical rotations.
2. **Prerequisite Courses:** Research nursing programs and check their specific prerequisites. These may include courses in biology, chemistry, and math. Since you've taken phlebotomy courses, you likely have a head start on some prerequisites.
3. **Nursing School Application:** Once you meet the prerequisites, apply to nursing schools that offer the program you prefer (BSN or ADN). Be prepared for a competitive admission process, and make sure to highlight your phlebotomy certificate and any relevant experience on your application.
4. **Financial Aid:** Explore financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans, to help cover the cost of your nursing education.
5. **Clinical Rotations:** During nursing school, you'll participate in clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, which will provide hands-on experience in nursing care.
6. **NCLEX-RN Exam:** After completing your nursing program, you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse.
7. **L&D Nursing Specialty:** Once you're a licensed RN, you can pursue a career in L&D nursing. Look for hospitals or healthcare facilities that offer L&D nursing positions.
8. **Certification and Continuing Education:** Consider becoming certified in obstetric nursing through organizations like the National Certification Corporation (NCC). Continuing education will also be essential to stay updated in your specialty.
9. **Networking:** Connect with nurses and professionals in the field, attend nursing conferences, and consider joining organizations like the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN).
10. **Professional Growth:** Over time, you can explore different roles within L&D nursing, such as becoming a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) or advancing to leadership positions.
Remember that becoming a nurse requires dedication, hard work, and a strong commitment to patient care. Your phlebotomy certificate and any healthcare experience you gain will be valuable assets as you pursue your goal of becoming an L&D nurse. Continue to seek guidance from educators and mentors in the field to help you navigate this rewarding career path successfully.
This was super helpful, thank you!
ale
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Finishing school? That is a rare reference. Apply to nursing schools by all means. Nursing is a difficult major. Don't forget that you will study just as hard to be a doctor or accountant or lawyer. Look carefully into what a L&D nurse does every day while you finally decide what path to take.
Hey Thomas, I didn’t really clarify. What I meant by that is that i’m going to a technical college/school where i’ll get tcc for phlebotomy basically a certificate. Once i’m done taking those coursing i’m thinking about applying to nursing school and i’ve read many responses that say with me having experience in phlebotomy it’ll be a quite bit easier not so much but just a little.
ale