Information
On Becoming A Nurse
As the population continues to grow, so does the need for educated
nursing professionals. With such a strong need for nurses many
would think it would be easy to get a nursing education. The
fact is it may be harder than many people think. Today the United
States also has a shortage of nursing educators and this makes
many nursing programs hard to get into often with long waiting
lists.
Nursing
forum - career planning and education advice for nursing
careers
Even with all these
hurdles in place, a nursing career is still a great choice as
long as you select the correct carrer path. As with any career
you choose, you want to create a plan and timeline so you can
advance into a senior position in the future. Below we have provided
some general information about how to get started with becoming
a nurse.
Nursing Assistant
vs LPN/LVN vs Registered Nurse
Many people in the
nursing industry start their careers by becoming a nursing assistant
or nursing aide. This is a great way to get started in the nursing
profession and a nursing assistant usually only requires course
work but no diploma. Becoming a nursing assistant may also help
an individual get into a better nursing program down the line
and provides employment while they are seeking bigger and better
things.
Becoming a LPN/LVN
or Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse usually requires a one
year course of study from a vocational school or junior college.
The LPN/LVN usually work under the supervision of a physician
or RN and usually has more advanced skills than the nursing assistant
but can perform less tasks than a registered nurse can. Again,
most people who become a LPN/LVN are gaining the experience and
knowledge that is necessary to become a Registered Nurse and may
use this during future studies.
The next step is
becoming a Registered Nurse. RNs require higher levels of study
and almost all new nurses have a ADN or BSN degree.
Selecting
an ADN or BSN Degree
Today two typical
courses of study are available for registered nurses. The ADN
or Associate Degree Nurse has to go through a two year degree
program while the BSN or Bachelor of Science nurse requires a
4 year degree. Today the debate whether all nurses should require
a 4 year degree rages on. The high demand for nurses has made
a case for keeping the ADN programs around.
Today it is recommended
to get the BSN because while experience plays a role, many hospitals
will pay you based on your level of education. The BSN also will
give you a stepping stone for further education into areas of
specialization.
Today many colleges
offer wonderful nursing degree programs. One major thing you need
to make sure of before selecting a program is that the program
is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
or the (NLNAC). By selecting a school with accreditation you usually
guarantee that you will be able to sit for your boards. Make sure
you get professional help before selecting a nursing degree program
because not all of them are the same.
Today there are thousands
of wonderful nursing career resources on the web. You can get
detailed information about almost any college and college program
in the country. If you are still asking yourself "how do I become
a nurse?", we recommend the following web sites:
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