If you want to become a nurse and are confused that how long does it take to become a nurse, then don’t worry, today we are going to discuss in detail on this topic.
By the way, there is no hard and fast rule for this because it depends on your education and hard work that how much time will take you to become a nurse.
But still talking about an ideal time, it can be from 2-5 years after passing high school. In this time interval you can graduate from a nursing program and take the NCLEX-RN.
An associate degree or diploma serves as a minimum requirement to become a nurse. But still some employers and states allow only bachelor degree holders to apply.
Read Also: How long does it take to Become a Plastic Surgeon
Let's find it...
How to become a Nurse?
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses are expected to see a 9% growth in jobs by 2020 – 2030. This would be around 526,300 new jobs.
Almost 3 million nurses are needed right now to fill the gap of those leaving the job.
A career as a nurse can be both rewarding and demanding. Aspiring nurses need to understand the academic requirements, certification examinations, and licensure process.
To become a nurse, you should acquire a degree from an accredited nursing program and then pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
It is necessary to have proper training in order to become a nurse. This is because their work keeps people healthy, saves lives, and prevents illness. There are several steps in order to become a nurse.
Step 1: The first thing required is to acquire an Associate of Science degree in nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited college or university. However, there are some programs that allow students to earn an RN certification after only completing a one-year diploma. (CNA Classes)
Step 2: After taking courses and gaining the required experience, you must sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
Aside from academic qualifications, you must be physically and mentally prepared. You need to be able to handle stress and deal with different situations.
You must acquire a license to practice as a registered nurse (RN). All US states, excluding California, North Carolina, and Washington DC. Require RNs to pass the NCLEX-RN exam in order to work as an RN.
Clinical experience is necessary for one to practice as an RN. This allows the nurse to gain a better comprehension of the patients and develop more skills.
All these steps take time and effort. Each step has its own duration so it is difficult to say how much time does it take to become a nurse.
The steps may differ from state to state and could even change with time. The only way to know the process is to contact your state board for nurses or visit their website.
What does a nurse do?
Nurses assist doctors in providing patients with medical treatment. They provide basic nursing, while the doctors perform more complicated procedures.
Nurses can specialize in different areas, such as pediatrics or women’s health care. Nurses with advanced degrees may concentrate on research and teaching.
How much money can nurses make?
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020 average salary for a nurse is $75,330 per year or $36.22 per hour. (BLS)
Nurses can make more money depending on their level of education, experience, geographical location, and hospital setting.
There are opportunities for advancement for nurses who seek higher positions.
Where can you work as nurse?
There are many different types of nursing jobs. You can choose to work in a clinical setting, an office environment, a research laboratory, or work for the government.
After obtaining the degree and license to practice as an RN, you can choose to work in a hospital, clinic, or nursing home.
Read Also: Toughest Courses In The World | Updated 2021 List
Conclusion
To become a nurse, you need to acquire the appropriate education and training (such as an ASN degree, BSN degree, or diploma program). Next, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Get listed on state registry boards for licensure to practice as an RN. Finally, you need to gain clinical experience to practice as an RN.
Becoming a nurse requires many steps as listed above. It takes time to become a nurse.
It takes a degree from an accredited nursing program and then passing the NCLEX-RN exam to practice as an RN.
In addition, you need to acquire a license from the state board of nursing.
Don’t forget to share this article on social media, so others can all get information related to becoming a nurse.