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Savannah
Student
Ocala, Florida
1
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How do i become an RN?
I need advice on the steps to become an RN.
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3 answers
TARA NADIA ROSCOE
RN
10
Answers
Kent, Ohio
Updated
TARA NADIA’s Answer
Hello Savannah,
I recently wrote an article about this very subject. I hope this helps you on your journey and I wish you the very best!
Want to Become a Nurse? Which Path to Nursing is Right for You?
If you are reading this article, you are considering a career in nursing. Many diverse opportunities make nursing a wonderful career choice. You can work in a hospital, nursing home, doctor’s office, or clinic. You can even work from home in utilization review, case management, telehealth, content writing, or nursing informatics. The career goals you want to pursue, how fast you wish to achieve them, and the resources you have will help determine which path is right for you. Let’s explore some options.
Preparing in High School
As a junior in high school, you hold quite the advantage. Consider looking into a career and technical center near you that offer pre-nursing programs for juniors and seniors. Upon graduation, you can become a licensed nursing assistant, licensed practical nurse (LPN), pharmacy technician, or phlebotomist, to name a few. These programs have tuition requirements; however, there are often scholarships available. Applying for as many as you can is highly encouraged. This strategy will require research, filling out forms, and writing essays, but the benefits far outweigh the work involved. These programs will allow you to work in healthcare after high school and carry over credits into a bachelor’s program.
LPN vs. RN
If attending a technical program in high school is not a good fit for you, the next thing to consider is whether to become a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) or a registered nurse (RN).
Becoming an LPN
LPNs and LVNs differ only by geographical location. Texas and California use the term LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse). LPNs take direction from RNs and are directly involved in patient care. They perform essential nursing care, such as checking vital signs, feeding, bathing, and administering certain medications and treatments.
Make sure to apply to an accredited LPN/LVN program, which you can find at many vocational or community colleges. This accreditation will ensure you can take the NCLEX-PN, the required state competency exam allowing you to obtain your state license. LPN school can take anywhere from seven months to two years to complete. On average, the cost of tuition for LPN programs is $10,000 to $15,000 nationally. Applying for scholarships helps to offset tuition. Salaries for LPNs can vary anywhere from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on where you live.
Becoming an RN
An RNs role focuses on patient care management. RNs oversee and delegate tasks to LPNs and other healthcare ancillary staff. They perform patient assessments, write care plans, provide teaching, and administer certain high-risk medications and treatments.
You can obtain an associates degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). An ADN program typically takes a full-time student two years to complete, offering significant clinical experience, while a BSN program takes four years to complete and is more research-based but also offers clinical experience. Completion of either program allows you to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
On average, the cost of tuition for an ADN program is anywhere from $6,000 to $20,000, and tuition for a BSN program can range from $20,000 to $100,000. Factors affecting salary include in-state and out-of-state tuition or state versus private universities. Attending a main campus versus a university branch can also affect tuition costs. Salaries for RNs can vary anywhere from $61,000 to $129,000 annually, depending on where you live.
Hands-On Experience
Many hospitals or nursing homes offer tuition reimbursement for part-time and full-time staff. Working in an ancillary staff position allows you to observe the nursing role and gain hands-on experience while receiving financial assistance for your education. Your dreams can come true with hard work, dedication, and the right strategy.
References
Helena College University of Montana. (n.d.). Nursing Programs. Retrieved August 13, 2023, from https://helenacollege.edu/academics/programs/nursing/default.aspx
Ko, N. (2023, May 3). Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) vs. Registered Nurses (RN). NurseJournal. https://nursejournal.org/resources/lpn-vs-rn-roles/
Nurse.org. (2023, March 31). How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). https://nurse.org/resources/licensed-practical-nurse-lpn-lvn/how-to-become-an-lpnlvn
Practicalnursing.org (2023, March 15). Cost of LPN Programs & Schools. https://www.practicalnursing.org/cost-lpn-program-school
St. John, M. (2023, May 2). What Is The Cost Of Nursing School? Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/nursing-school-cost/
Trumbull Career & Technical Center (n.d.). Industry-Recognized Credentials and Certifications. Retrieved August 13, 2023, from https://www.tctchome.com/page/credentials-and-certifications
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 29-2061 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022: 29-1141 Registered Nurses. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm
I recently wrote an article about this very subject. I hope this helps you on your journey and I wish you the very best!
Want to Become a Nurse? Which Path to Nursing is Right for You?
If you are reading this article, you are considering a career in nursing. Many diverse opportunities make nursing a wonderful career choice. You can work in a hospital, nursing home, doctor’s office, or clinic. You can even work from home in utilization review, case management, telehealth, content writing, or nursing informatics. The career goals you want to pursue, how fast you wish to achieve them, and the resources you have will help determine which path is right for you. Let’s explore some options.
Preparing in High School
As a junior in high school, you hold quite the advantage. Consider looking into a career and technical center near you that offer pre-nursing programs for juniors and seniors. Upon graduation, you can become a licensed nursing assistant, licensed practical nurse (LPN), pharmacy technician, or phlebotomist, to name a few. These programs have tuition requirements; however, there are often scholarships available. Applying for as many as you can is highly encouraged. This strategy will require research, filling out forms, and writing essays, but the benefits far outweigh the work involved. These programs will allow you to work in healthcare after high school and carry over credits into a bachelor’s program.
LPN vs. RN
If attending a technical program in high school is not a good fit for you, the next thing to consider is whether to become a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) or a registered nurse (RN).
Becoming an LPN
LPNs and LVNs differ only by geographical location. Texas and California use the term LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse). LPNs take direction from RNs and are directly involved in patient care. They perform essential nursing care, such as checking vital signs, feeding, bathing, and administering certain medications and treatments.
Make sure to apply to an accredited LPN/LVN program, which you can find at many vocational or community colleges. This accreditation will ensure you can take the NCLEX-PN, the required state competency exam allowing you to obtain your state license. LPN school can take anywhere from seven months to two years to complete. On average, the cost of tuition for LPN programs is $10,000 to $15,000 nationally. Applying for scholarships helps to offset tuition. Salaries for LPNs can vary anywhere from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on where you live.
Becoming an RN
An RNs role focuses on patient care management. RNs oversee and delegate tasks to LPNs and other healthcare ancillary staff. They perform patient assessments, write care plans, provide teaching, and administer certain high-risk medications and treatments.
You can obtain an associates degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). An ADN program typically takes a full-time student two years to complete, offering significant clinical experience, while a BSN program takes four years to complete and is more research-based but also offers clinical experience. Completion of either program allows you to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
On average, the cost of tuition for an ADN program is anywhere from $6,000 to $20,000, and tuition for a BSN program can range from $20,000 to $100,000. Factors affecting salary include in-state and out-of-state tuition or state versus private universities. Attending a main campus versus a university branch can also affect tuition costs. Salaries for RNs can vary anywhere from $61,000 to $129,000 annually, depending on where you live.
Hands-On Experience
Many hospitals or nursing homes offer tuition reimbursement for part-time and full-time staff. Working in an ancillary staff position allows you to observe the nursing role and gain hands-on experience while receiving financial assistance for your education. Your dreams can come true with hard work, dedication, and the right strategy.
References
Helena College University of Montana. (n.d.). Nursing Programs. Retrieved August 13, 2023, from https://helenacollege.edu/academics/programs/nursing/default.aspx
Ko, N. (2023, May 3). Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) vs. Registered Nurses (RN). NurseJournal. https://nursejournal.org/resources/lpn-vs-rn-roles/
Nurse.org. (2023, March 31). How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). https://nurse.org/resources/licensed-practical-nurse-lpn-lvn/how-to-become-an-lpnlvn
Practicalnursing.org (2023, March 15). Cost of LPN Programs & Schools. https://www.practicalnursing.org/cost-lpn-program-school
St. John, M. (2023, May 2). What Is The Cost Of Nursing School? Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/nursing-school-cost/
Trumbull Career & Technical Center (n.d.). Industry-Recognized Credentials and Certifications. Retrieved August 13, 2023, from https://www.tctchome.com/page/credentials-and-certifications
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 29-2061 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022: 29-1141 Registered Nurses. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm
Incredibly thorough response and way to cite your sources, Tara! Thank you so much for sharing!
yoonji KIM, Admin
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Savannah!
Embarking on the journey to become a Registered Nurse (RN) is an exciting adventure that combines education, hands-on clinical training, and the triumphant moment of passing the national licensing examination. Let's dive into the process, which is a series of rewarding steps.
1. Education Requirements:
The first milestone on this journey is fulfilling the educational prerequisites. You have three viable paths to consider:
a. Diploma in Nursing: This is the quickest route to becoming an RN, typically taking 2-3 years. It's a nursing program offered by a hospital and is the least common path.
b. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): This is a two-year program offered by community colleges or vocational schools. ADN programs equip you with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to become an RN.
c. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This is a four-year degree program offered by colleges and universities. BSN programs offer a more in-depth education, with additional coursework in areas such as leadership, research, and community health.
2. Licensing Requirements:
Once you've completed your education, the next step is obtaining your nursing license. Although the specifics vary by state, the general process involves:
a. Graduation from an Accredited Program: Make sure your nursing program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body.
b. NCLEX-RN Examination: The next milestone is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This standardized exam tests your knowledge and skills for entry-level nursing practice.
c. State Licensing Application: After passing the NCLEX-RN, you'll apply for a nursing license with your state's board of nursing. This usually involves providing proof of education, paying an application fee, and undergoing a criminal background check.
3. Clinical Experience:
Gaining clinical experience is a crucial part of becoming an RN. It allows you to apply your newfound knowledge in real-world healthcare settings and hone your practical skills. Many nursing programs include clinical rotations, giving you invaluable hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
4. Continuing Education:
Once you're an RN, it's vital to stay current with the latest advancements in the field and maintain your licensure through continuing education. Many states require RNs to complete a certain number of continuing education hours periodically. This can involve attending workshops, conferences, or pursuing advanced degrees or certifications.
5. Specialization and Career Advancement:
After obtaining your RN license, you may decide to specialize in a specific area of nursing. Specializations can vary from critical care and pediatrics to mental health and geriatrics. Pursuing specialized certifications or advanced degrees can lead to exciting career advancement opportunities and potentially higher salaries.
In a nutshell, the journey to becoming an RN involves completing the necessary education, securing a nursing license by passing the NCLEX-RN examination, gaining clinical experience, engaging in continuing education, and potentially pursuing specialization or advanced degrees.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications/Domain Names:
1. American Nurses Association (ANA) - www.nursingworld.org
2. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) - www.ncsbn.org
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - www.bls.gov
Embarking on the journey to become a Registered Nurse (RN) is an exciting adventure that combines education, hands-on clinical training, and the triumphant moment of passing the national licensing examination. Let's dive into the process, which is a series of rewarding steps.
1. Education Requirements:
The first milestone on this journey is fulfilling the educational prerequisites. You have three viable paths to consider:
a. Diploma in Nursing: This is the quickest route to becoming an RN, typically taking 2-3 years. It's a nursing program offered by a hospital and is the least common path.
b. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): This is a two-year program offered by community colleges or vocational schools. ADN programs equip you with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to become an RN.
c. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This is a four-year degree program offered by colleges and universities. BSN programs offer a more in-depth education, with additional coursework in areas such as leadership, research, and community health.
2. Licensing Requirements:
Once you've completed your education, the next step is obtaining your nursing license. Although the specifics vary by state, the general process involves:
a. Graduation from an Accredited Program: Make sure your nursing program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body.
b. NCLEX-RN Examination: The next milestone is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This standardized exam tests your knowledge and skills for entry-level nursing practice.
c. State Licensing Application: After passing the NCLEX-RN, you'll apply for a nursing license with your state's board of nursing. This usually involves providing proof of education, paying an application fee, and undergoing a criminal background check.
3. Clinical Experience:
Gaining clinical experience is a crucial part of becoming an RN. It allows you to apply your newfound knowledge in real-world healthcare settings and hone your practical skills. Many nursing programs include clinical rotations, giving you invaluable hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
4. Continuing Education:
Once you're an RN, it's vital to stay current with the latest advancements in the field and maintain your licensure through continuing education. Many states require RNs to complete a certain number of continuing education hours periodically. This can involve attending workshops, conferences, or pursuing advanced degrees or certifications.
5. Specialization and Career Advancement:
After obtaining your RN license, you may decide to specialize in a specific area of nursing. Specializations can vary from critical care and pediatrics to mental health and geriatrics. Pursuing specialized certifications or advanced degrees can lead to exciting career advancement opportunities and potentially higher salaries.
In a nutshell, the journey to becoming an RN involves completing the necessary education, securing a nursing license by passing the NCLEX-RN examination, gaining clinical experience, engaging in continuing education, and potentially pursuing specialization or advanced degrees.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications/Domain Names:
1. American Nurses Association (ANA) - www.nursingworld.org
2. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) - www.ncsbn.org
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - www.bls.gov
Yisel Andujar
Pharmacy
48
Answers
Vineland, New Jersey
Updated
Yisel’s Answer
Hi Savannah,
It's fantastic to hear about your aspiration to become a Registered Nurse (RN)! The path to becoming an RN is a rewarding one, and it can open up a world of possibilities for you. You could specialize in areas like pediatrics, oncology, or emergency nursing, or even explore opportunities such as travel nursing or case management.
To help you navigate this journey, it's beneficial to sit down and reflect on your interests and goals. Consider what nursing specialty sparks your passion, and where you'd like to study. Watching nursing videos or reading nursing books can also be a great way to prepare yourself and start formulating a plan.
Now, let's look at the fundamental steps to becoming an RN. However, keep in mind that you might need additional certifications depending on your chosen nursing field.
1. Earn Your Degree: To become an RN, you'll need to obtain a degree from a recognized institution.
2. Pass the NCLEX Exam: This is a crucial step in your nursing journey.
3. Obtain State Licensure: This will officially authorize you to practice nursing.
4. Seek Advanced Training (optional): This is an opportunity for you to specialize and enhance your skills further.
Remember, your journey to becoming an RN is a personal one, and it's all about finding the path that suits you best. You're embarking on an exciting adventure, and I'm confident that you'll make an exceptional nurse!
It's fantastic to hear about your aspiration to become a Registered Nurse (RN)! The path to becoming an RN is a rewarding one, and it can open up a world of possibilities for you. You could specialize in areas like pediatrics, oncology, or emergency nursing, or even explore opportunities such as travel nursing or case management.
To help you navigate this journey, it's beneficial to sit down and reflect on your interests and goals. Consider what nursing specialty sparks your passion, and where you'd like to study. Watching nursing videos or reading nursing books can also be a great way to prepare yourself and start formulating a plan.
Now, let's look at the fundamental steps to becoming an RN. However, keep in mind that you might need additional certifications depending on your chosen nursing field.
1. Earn Your Degree: To become an RN, you'll need to obtain a degree from a recognized institution.
2. Pass the NCLEX Exam: This is a crucial step in your nursing journey.
3. Obtain State Licensure: This will officially authorize you to practice nursing.
4. Seek Advanced Training (optional): This is an opportunity for you to specialize and enhance your skills further.
Remember, your journey to becoming an RN is a personal one, and it's all about finding the path that suits you best. You're embarking on an exciting adventure, and I'm confident that you'll make an exceptional nurse!