Raise your hand if you said “a nurse” when someone asked what you hoped to be once you grew up. Nursing is more than simply a career for many of us; it’s a lifelong passion. Nursing is one of the most fulfilling and well-respected jobs, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to improve the lives of others. However, the method and prerequisites for entering the nursing profession aren’t always straightforward, and they differ significantly depending on the type of nurse.
From schooling and certification to employment prospects and salary, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about beginning a nursing career.
Certifications and Education
You must complete a nursing program at a college or university to become a nurse. Nursing degrees come at a variety of levels, including:
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program is intended to prepare you for entry-level nursing positions and normally lasts one year.
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Registered Nurse (RN): This program, which may be finished in two to four years, will provide you with a more in-depth comprehension of nursing procedures.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Students who earn this degree often do it in four years and have a much deeper comprehension of nursing principles. Preparing for these exams will most likely not be an easy task, so you might want to think about adopting a study guide, such as the guide to Brilliant Nurse, an educational program designed to give students a cost-effective and thorough study schedule, to aid in their exam preparation. Be careful to check with your state’s Board of Nursing for precise information, as each state has its own licensure standards.
Employment Opportunities
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing will have a 7% job growth rate between 2019 and 2029, making it a highly in-demand profession. There will be an increased need for nurses as the population ages and healthcare services are in higher demand.
Nursing homes, clinics, hospitals, and private offices are some of the sites where nurses most frequently work. Additionally, nurses might work in unconventional places like research institutes, jails, and schools.
Salaries
As of May 2020, studies showed that the median yearly pay for registered nurses was $75,330. The highest 10% of RNs earned over $116,230 a year, while the lowest 10% made less than $52,080.
The location, amount of education, and experience are just a few of the variables that might affect salaries. Additionally, nurses with advanced degrees may make more money than those with merely a diploma or associate’s degree. Nurses who work in urban regions typically make more money than those who work in rural areas.
Continuous Learning
Any nursing career should emphasize continuing education. To keep their licenses, nurses must earn a set number of continuing education credits annually. This makes sure that nurses are knowledgeable about the most recent advancements in nursing techniques and technology. In addition to continuing education, it’s also essential for nurses to prioritize their comfort and professionalism, which often includes wearing a comfortable and functional medical scrub suit from Poppy Scrubs during their shifts.
Nurses have access to a wide range of continuing education opportunities, such as conferences, workshops, and online courses. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) are two examples of advanced nursing degrees that some nurses may decide to pursue.
Specializations
Within the subject of nursing, there are numerous specialized options. Among the most popular specialties are:
- Pediatrics: Nurses in this specialty deal with kids of all ages, from infants to teenagers.
- Oncology: Oncology nurses assist cancer patients by offering both psychological and physical assistance.
- Emergency: Care for patients who are facing a medical emergency is provided by emergency nurses in hectic settings.
- Geriatrics: Geriatric nurses work with elderly patients, providing care that is adapted to the particular requirements of senior citizens.
- Nurse Practitioner: Advanced practice nurses with the ability to diagnose and treat specific medical disorders are known as nurse practitioners. They could work alone or alongside other medical specialists.
Qualities and Skills
There are some abilities and traits that are necessary to succeed as a nurse. A few of these are:
- Compassion: Nursing requires a great deal of compassion because nurses frequently deal with patients who are in agony or misery.
- Pay close attention: Nurses are in charge of monitoring patients, providing prescriptions, and keeping records of medical care. To guarantee patient safety, great attention to detail is crucial.
- Critical thinking: In an emergency, nurses must be able to think clearly and act quickly.
- Communication: Effective communication with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals is a skill that nurses must possess.
- Physical stamina: It is essential for nurses because they frequently work long shifts and must lift and transport patients.
Although nursing is a wonderful profession, success requires a lot of effort and commitment. To succeed in the nursing field, you must always be well-prepared. If you enjoy helping people, becoming a nurse can be one of the most fulfilling careers in the healthcare sector. Nurses will continue to be in great demand throughout the coming decades.
