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What is the process and experience like when trying to get a degree in nursing?
I'd like to know what college will be like if I decide to major in nursing.
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Maureen’s Answer
Hey Jimmy,
I have been an instructor in the College of Nursing at Rush University for 11 years. I now precept nurse practitioner student where I work. I don't know what grade you are in school.
1. Take a look at colleges of nursing you're interested in and see what high school pre-requisite classes you need to enter the nursing program:
schools may want to see 4 years of math, 4 years of science, computer technology, foreign languages, etc.
2. Four year degrees are needed but you can start at the community college level to get general college course work done at a less expensive dollar amount.
3. If you are still in high school, use the counselors available to you to guide you with "next steps".
4. Talk to family members in health care, they may have a relative or friend who you can mentor with. I used my aunt who was a registered nurse for guidance.
5. After 2 years of general education classes, you will be given classes like Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry and Statistics, Psychology, Sociology and more.
6. Your last 2 years of nursing are full of "clinical rotations" in pediatrics (children), obstetrics, gynecology, medical, surgical, psychiatry and more. Along the way, you will learn how to take blood pressures, draw blood, start IVs, and use the electronics that goes with these nursing tasks.
7. When you graduate, you will study and take your state nursing licensing exam (on computer). When you pass this exam, you can then apply for a job as a nurse, do a nursing internship (to see where your interests lie) and much more.
8. You will never be bored, you will probably change your specialty when you see something new you want to do in nursing that catches your eye. You can travel to any country, join the military, volunteer. I wish you luck on your quest! Maureen
I have been an instructor in the College of Nursing at Rush University for 11 years. I now precept nurse practitioner student where I work. I don't know what grade you are in school.
1. Take a look at colleges of nursing you're interested in and see what high school pre-requisite classes you need to enter the nursing program:
schools may want to see 4 years of math, 4 years of science, computer technology, foreign languages, etc.
2. Four year degrees are needed but you can start at the community college level to get general college course work done at a less expensive dollar amount.
3. If you are still in high school, use the counselors available to you to guide you with "next steps".
4. Talk to family members in health care, they may have a relative or friend who you can mentor with. I used my aunt who was a registered nurse for guidance.
5. After 2 years of general education classes, you will be given classes like Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry and Statistics, Psychology, Sociology and more.
6. Your last 2 years of nursing are full of "clinical rotations" in pediatrics (children), obstetrics, gynecology, medical, surgical, psychiatry and more. Along the way, you will learn how to take blood pressures, draw blood, start IVs, and use the electronics that goes with these nursing tasks.
7. When you graduate, you will study and take your state nursing licensing exam (on computer). When you pass this exam, you can then apply for a job as a nurse, do a nursing internship (to see where your interests lie) and much more.
8. You will never be bored, you will probably change your specialty when you see something new you want to do in nursing that catches your eye. You can travel to any country, join the military, volunteer. I wish you luck on your quest! Maureen
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Jimmy
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Choosing a program often means exploring a variety of subjects in your first couple of years. You'll also dive deeper into science and math courses. Some programs welcome you straight into the nursing school where you'll tackle your prerequisites before embarking on the core nursing curriculum. Depending on the program, the real nursing journey might kick off in the 2nd or 3rd year. The most challenging part of a nursing program can be those early morning wake-up calls to reach your clinical site. Other majors might offer a bit more flexibility, or in other words, extra sleep. But remember, your college experience is largely what you shape it to be.
Thank you so much!
Jimmy
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Jimmy,
A Comprehensive Guide to Earning a Nursing Degree
Embarking on a nursing degree journey involves several key steps:
Educational Prerequisites: Entry into most nursing programs necessitates a high school diploma or its equivalent. Certain programs may also require prerequisite courses in areas such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
Selecting a Nursing Program: A variety of nursing programs are available, including Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and Accelerated Nursing Programs for those with a bachelor’s degree in a different field.
Application Process: After selecting a program, the next step is applying for admission. This typically involves submitting an application, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and potentially taking an entrance exam like the TEAS or HESI.
Gaining Clinical Experience: A blend of classroom instruction and clinical experience is a standard component of nursing programs. Clinical rotations offer students the opportunity to acquire practical experience in patient care under the guidance of seasoned nurses.
Licensing Examination: Upon completion of your nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam is mandatory to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). This examination assesses your knowledge and proficiency to ensure you're equipped for safe practice.
Specialization and Ongoing Education: As a registered nurse, you have the option to specialize in specific areas of nursing such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care. Continuing education is crucial to keep up with developments in the profession.
The College Journey as a Nursing Major
As a nursing major, your college journey will likely comprise a mix of classroom lectures, lab work, and clinical rotations. Here's a glimpse of what to expect:
Academic Curriculum: Nursing programs usually encompass courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, nursing theory, and clinical skills. Additionally, you'll learn about ethical and legal aspects of healthcare.
Clinical Rotations: These are a vital part of nursing education, enabling you to apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare environments and develop practical patient care skills.
Practical Training: Beyond classroom learning, nursing programs offer practical training in areas such as taking vital signs, administering medications, dressing wounds, and delivering patient care.
Teamwork and Communication: Nursing is a team-oriented profession that demands effective communication with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. Your college journey will focus on honing these skills.
Licensure Preparation: Nursing programs aim to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and licensure as a registered nurse. Your academic and clinical experiences will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to pass the exam.
In essence, earning a nursing degree can be demanding but gratifying. It calls for commitment, diligence, and a strong desire to help others. The college journey as a nursing major will set you up for a rewarding career in healthcare.
Top 3 Credible Sources Utilized:
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): As the national representative for baccalaureate and graduate nursing education, AACN offers invaluable information on nursing education standards and resources.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): NCSBN, the creator of the NCLEX-RN exam and the setter of nursing practice standards, provides comprehensive information on licensure prerequisites.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): BLS offers data on the future of nursing careers, including job growth predictions, median salaries, and educational prerequisites for various nursing roles.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
A Comprehensive Guide to Earning a Nursing Degree
Embarking on a nursing degree journey involves several key steps:
Educational Prerequisites: Entry into most nursing programs necessitates a high school diploma or its equivalent. Certain programs may also require prerequisite courses in areas such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
Selecting a Nursing Program: A variety of nursing programs are available, including Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and Accelerated Nursing Programs for those with a bachelor’s degree in a different field.
Application Process: After selecting a program, the next step is applying for admission. This typically involves submitting an application, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and potentially taking an entrance exam like the TEAS or HESI.
Gaining Clinical Experience: A blend of classroom instruction and clinical experience is a standard component of nursing programs. Clinical rotations offer students the opportunity to acquire practical experience in patient care under the guidance of seasoned nurses.
Licensing Examination: Upon completion of your nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam is mandatory to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). This examination assesses your knowledge and proficiency to ensure you're equipped for safe practice.
Specialization and Ongoing Education: As a registered nurse, you have the option to specialize in specific areas of nursing such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care. Continuing education is crucial to keep up with developments in the profession.
The College Journey as a Nursing Major
As a nursing major, your college journey will likely comprise a mix of classroom lectures, lab work, and clinical rotations. Here's a glimpse of what to expect:
Academic Curriculum: Nursing programs usually encompass courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, nursing theory, and clinical skills. Additionally, you'll learn about ethical and legal aspects of healthcare.
Clinical Rotations: These are a vital part of nursing education, enabling you to apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare environments and develop practical patient care skills.
Practical Training: Beyond classroom learning, nursing programs offer practical training in areas such as taking vital signs, administering medications, dressing wounds, and delivering patient care.
Teamwork and Communication: Nursing is a team-oriented profession that demands effective communication with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. Your college journey will focus on honing these skills.
Licensure Preparation: Nursing programs aim to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and licensure as a registered nurse. Your academic and clinical experiences will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to pass the exam.
In essence, earning a nursing degree can be demanding but gratifying. It calls for commitment, diligence, and a strong desire to help others. The college journey as a nursing major will set you up for a rewarding career in healthcare.
Top 3 Credible Sources Utilized:
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): As the national representative for baccalaureate and graduate nursing education, AACN offers invaluable information on nursing education standards and resources.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): NCSBN, the creator of the NCLEX-RN exam and the setter of nursing practice standards, provides comprehensive information on licensure prerequisites.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): BLS offers data on the future of nursing careers, including job growth predictions, median salaries, and educational prerequisites for various nursing roles.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
Thank you so much, James Constantine! You da goat 🐐
Jimmy
Updated
Becky’s Answer
Dear Jimmy
I have my doctorate in nursing practice, and my experience with nursing education was quite challenging. Besides the heavy course load, lab and clinical components require focus and discipline to excel. Additionally, because of the practical components, you must understand the theory to apply it in the clinical setting. However, the experience, while challenging, is exciting and is well worth the effort and hard work.
Good Luck.
Becky Rouhi, DNP
I have my doctorate in nursing practice, and my experience with nursing education was quite challenging. Besides the heavy course load, lab and clinical components require focus and discipline to excel. Additionally, because of the practical components, you must understand the theory to apply it in the clinical setting. However, the experience, while challenging, is exciting and is well worth the effort and hard work.
Good Luck.
Becky Rouhi, DNP
Thank you, Becky!
Jimmy