How Do I Become a Registered Nurse?
The occupation of nursing is quite a noble one. By making a decision to become a nurse, you commit to make a positive impact on the lives of others, helping them improve their lives. The biggest reward of becoming a registered nurse is that it brings you a lot of satisfaction as you provide clinical medical care to the elderly, the young and children for improving their health. On the other hand, the nursing career also brings good earning benefits. Given below are some essential steps that you can follow to become a registered nurse.
Step #1: Obtaining a high school diploma or GED is the stepping stone towards making your career in the field of nursing. While you study in high school, you need to pay careful attention to science courses including biology and chemistry.
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Step #2: Next, you need to make a decision whether you want to enroll in an associate's degree or a bachelor's RN degree program. Either of these degrees will prepare you to go through and pass the NCLEX-RN, a state licensing exam to become a registered nurse. A bachelor's degree is required for advanced career opportunities.
Step #3: Select a nursing school and apply for the RN degree program. For the inside story, it is advisable to get in touch with graduates about their experience in your chosen nursing school. Try to dig out as much information as possible about the nursing school you have selected. Also check the institution's statistics for getting through the NCLEX-RN licensing examination.
Step #4: Make the most of your degree program in the nursing school. T pass the NCLEX-RN examination successfully, you need to learn as much as possible in the nursing school. You can also start to focus on the kind of nurse you want to become while completing the program.
Step #5: Start applying for nursing jobs. There is an increasing demand for trained nurses in the nursing healthcare field. The job prospect being quite good, you can land jobs just anywhere. You can find a job position in the healthcare industry and start working towards establishing a successful career in this field.
Step #6: Find out if your nursing school offers an externship program. Choose a preceptor who has strong knowledge and encourages you. Finding a knowledgeable preceptor will play an essential role in shaping your nursing career.
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Step #7: The final step towards a successful nursing career is passing the NCLEX-RN exam to fulfill the state licensure requirements. If you can handle it, try to pass this state examination before you start your job.
Step #8: Now you are ready to take up your new job. Start your new job with all the dedication and commitment. Continue with your passion for making a positive impact on people's lives. You will soon become a successful registered nurse and earn a decent salary.
Warning: Do not think that it is too late to state a nursing career. Most of the people enter this occupation after they have reached their middle age or started a family. The life experience that middle aged people carry can be extremely beneficial to this career.
