A Career Guide on How to Become a Nurse
Did you know that in 2021, there are 4.2 million registered nurses in the US?
Becoming a nurse is a great career choice for many reasons. There is job security, and your earning potential is high. Nurses also accumulate many transferrable skills throughout their careers.
But how do you become a nurse? The answer isn’t as simple as going to nursing school and having a passion for helping people. There is much to learn before stepping into your first clinical rotation.
Luckily, we’ve compiled this guide on how to become a nurse.
Table of Contents
Education & Professional Licensing
Once you’ve obtained your diploma, consider furthering your education by earning a Master’s degree and certification in your chosen field. After receiving your degree, the next step is to apply for the national licensing exam.
Passing this exam will enable you to practice as a nurse in any state. Moreover, you should examine the state’s legal requirements for continuing education. Finally, it would be best to look into professional certifications that can enhance your employability, such as the Certified Nurse Educator.
Staying up to date with the latest healthcare advancements and regulations is another important part of staying current in the field. Educating yourself and developing a broad skill set is the best way to have a successful and fulfilling nursing career.
Choose a Specialty
A career as a nurse can include a variety of opportunities and specialties. To become certified and practice within a thing, nurses must undergo training and education related to the desired item.
It is essential to research the various specialties available, such as:
- Geriatrics
- Critical Care
- Neonatal Care
- Psychiatric Care
- Oncology
Each specialty has unique requirements, such as specialized certifications, particular degrees, and more. Nurses should consider their interests, academic background, and ability to meet various needs.
In addition to researching a specialty, nurses need to consider the culture and environment of their place of work. School visits, online reviews, and talks with current nurses. This can help nurses determine whether a particular job would fit.
Even after choosing a specialty, keeping an open mind and exploring your options periodically can be helpful. Keeping up with the latest industry trends will help nurses stay updated with the latest topics in their chosen specialty.
Setting Yourself Up for Success
Develop clinical experience and a professional portfolio. Shadowing other nurses and volunteering opportunities in the field can help you gain perspective that you cannot find in the classroom.
A competitive nursing resume and portfolio also give you an edge. Include any projects, awards, and certifications as you build your professional experience.
Find mentors with meaningful experiences to help guide your development. It also encourages you to reach your goals. Put yourself in a position to have many avenues of professional support.
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Understanding How to Become a Nurse
If you’re looking for a rewarding healthcare career, consider nursing. With various options in the field, it’s a profession that offers professional growth, a competitive salary, and an outstanding work-life balance. Take the first step about how to become a nurse today and explore the resources in this guide to learn more.
For more helpful tips, check out our site today.
Last Updated on February 22, 2023
