Steps Essential To Become A Registered Nurse

Written by: Helena Lucas

With advancement in health technology and in the average lifespan of people, registered nurses are in demand. Logically speaking, the older a person becomes, the more opportunities arise to grow ill. Similarly, as people age they have more incidents of injuries and age-related needs. Finally, the greater the population, the more frequently families experience childbirth and well-checks. For those of you who enjoy working with others and have an interest in medical issues, a nursing career could be right up your alley.

As a registered nurse, you can either start working at your current qualification level, or decide to pursue a higher level of education to become a nurse practitioner. The positions are quite different. Practitioners have a greater amount of responsibility. Much like doctors, they can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and, in some states, even start their own practices. Registered nursers are more familiar to the general public because they are common in medical facilities. They help the physicians by taking care of patients according to a physician's orders. They are not allowed to be self-employed, but are bound to work for medical institutions such as hospitals and clinics.

For those of you who have not yet graduated from high school, load your schedule with science instruction. These classes include chemistry and biology. To pursue a degree in nursing, you will have to take the SAT or ACT, so consider practice tests and study programs. Strive to do well, both for your own personal edification and to improve your chances of getting a quality position.

After high school you have several paths from which to choose, including a two year associate's degree, a nursing study that spans three years, a bachelor's degree, or a master's degree. If your goal is to become a nurse practitioner, you must arm yourself with a master's degree. The bachelor's and master's degrees include scientific and theoretical studies in administration as well as care of the patient. The shorter programs focus on direct contact with the patients, preparing a student for hands-on patient care. If you choose one of the shorter programs, you can choose to get more education at a future date. Regardless of your path, it is important that you study with an institution that is recognized by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Regardless of which kind of degree you obtain, you will have to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination. You may take this test after getting your nursing degree or diploma. You should contact the nursing board where you live to see if any additional requirements are necessary.

It is important that you get hands-on experience in the medical field to boost your skills. Do some voluntary service in your local medical facilities. Lend your skills to non-profit groups that work with people who cannot afford medical care. You could also embark on a mission to another country. While this will definitely look good on your resume, it will also help you gain valuable experience in patient care.

Apply to local medical facilities, including clinics, hospitals, doctors' offices, and nursing homes. Don't overlook sports clinics, schools, and government-operated health centers. Do not be afraid to accept an entry level job. By working hard and staying positive, you will move up before you know it. After you gain employment, you might want to think about getting more education. You will have the opportunity to add certifications to your degree, which will put you in a position for higher pay, a better job, and increased job security.

Nurses are going to be needed no matter what happens in this world. More registered nurse positions will become available as people continue to live longer. Whether the economy is doing well or not, a registered nurse is a challenging and secure job.