How To Become a Nurse

Nursing offers a variety of career paths and opportunities to make a significant impact on the lives of patients and their families. Whether you’re a high school student planning your future, a professional considering a career change, or someone already working in healthcare looking to advance, this guide will provide you with a step-by-step overview of how to become a nurse.

Let’s cover the different types of nursing degrees, licensure requirements, and essential tips to succeed in the field.

Understanding the nursing profession

Nurses are crucial in all healthcare settings where they provide care, support, and education. They work in diverse environments, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, and private practices. The specific duties of a nurse vary based on their level of education and specialization, but generally include:

Assessing and monitoring patients' health
Administering medications and treatments
Collaborating with other healthcare professionals
Educating patients about health conditions and preventive care
Providing emotional support to patients and families

Types of nursing certifications and degrees

There are several educational pathways to becoming a nurse, each with its own set of requirements and career opportunities. Here are the most common nursing degrees:

Certified nursing assistant

Duration: This can vary by state, but the duration is around four-to-twelve weeks.

Description: Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs and licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs). Duties include assisting with daily activities, taking vital signs, and ensuring patient comfort.

Educational path: Complete a state-approved CNA training program and pass a competency exam. Please note, high school students can complete certain requirements to become a CNA.

Licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse

Duration: This can vary, but typically one year.

Description: LPNs and LVNs provide basic medical care, including administering medications, providing wound care, and monitoring patients. They work under the supervision of RNs and physicians.

Educational path: Complete a state-approved LPN/LVN program and pass the National Council Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) exam. Once passing the NCLEX-PN, LPNs/LVNs must apply for licensure in the state they intend to practice in.

Registered nurse

Duration: This takes around two-to-four years.

Description: Registered nurses (RNs) perform a wide range of duties, including patient assessment, administering medications, creating care plans, and educating patients. They can specialize in various fields such as pediatrics, emergency care, and oncology.

Educational paths:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Two years at a community college
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Four years at a college or university

Licensure: Complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once passing the exam, RNs must apply for licensure in the state they intend to practice in.

Advanced practice registered nurse

Duration: This can take around four years after a BSN.

Description: Advanced practice registered nurse (APRNs) have advanced clinical training and can provide primary and specialty care. They include nurse practitioners (NPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and nurse midwives (CNMs).

Educational path: Complete an accredited Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program and obtain national certification in their specialty area. It’s important to note that the scope of practice varies by state for NPs, which includes:

Full Practice Authority: NPs can perform the full scope of practice without the supervision of a physician.
Reduced Practice Authority: NPs can perform a reduced scope of practice without the supervision of a physician.
Restricted Practice Authority: NPs must practice under the supervision of a physician.

Steps to becoming a nurse

Being a nurse is a rewarding and meaningful career that allows you to make a difference in the lives of your patients and their families. Nurses are also in high demand and enjoy a variety of opportunities for advancement and specialization. Here are the steps to become a nurse:

Step 1: Research nursing programs

Before entering a nursing program, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED. This will prepare you for the academic rigor of college-level courses and help you meet the basic requirements for admission.

The next step in becoming a nurse is to research and choose the nursing program that best fits your career goals, lifestyle, and financial situation. Consider factors such as program length, cost, location, and curriculum. Accredited programs are crucial as they meet the standards set by the nursing accrediting bodies, ensuring you receive a quality education.

Step 2: Meet prerequisites

Each nursing program has specific prerequisites that must be met before you can apply. Common prerequisites include courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Some programs also require healthcare experience, which can be obtained by working as a CNA or volunteering in healthcare settings.

Step 3: Apply to nursing programs

Once you’ve chosen your preferred nursing programs and met the prerequisites, the next step is to apply. Application processes vary by program but can include submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes standardized test results like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) for ADN or BSN programs.

Step 4: Complete nursing education

After being accepted into a nursing program, you will complete coursework and clinical rotations. Coursework covers subjects like pharmacology, nursing ethics, patient care, and health assessment. Clinical rotations provide hands-on experience in various healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced nurses.

Step 5: Pass the licensure exam

Upon graduating from your nursing program, you must pass the NCLEX exam (NCLEX-PN for LPNs/LVNs and NCLEX-RN for RNs) to obtain your nursing license. The exam tests your knowledge and skills necessary to practice nursing safely and effectively. It is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

Step 6: Acquire state licensure

After passing the NCLEX, you must apply for licensure in the state where you plan to practice. Each state has its own licensing board and requirements. Some states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which permits nurses to practice in multiple states under one license.

Step 7: Seek employment

With your nursing license in hand, you can begin seeking employment. Nurses are in high demand, and there are numerous job opportunities in various healthcare settings. Prepare a strong resume and cover letter and be ready to discuss your clinical experiences and skills during job interviews.

Step 8: Consider certification and advanced education

As you gain experience, you may decide to specialize in a particular area of nursing or pursue advanced education. Organizations like the National Certification Corporation (NCC) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offer certification in various nursing specialties. Certification can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher salaries, and more opportunities for advancement.

Some nursing certifications you can pursue are:

Essential skills and qualities for nurses

Becoming a successful nurse requires more than just education and licensure. Here are some essential skills and qualities that can help you thrive in the nursing profession:

Compassion and empathy: Nurses must provide compassionate care and support to patients and their families during difficult times.
Communication skills: Effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare team members is crucial for providing quality care.
Attention to detail: Nurses must be detail-oriented to ensure accurate documentation, medication administration, and patient monitoring.
Critical thinking: Nurses often face complex situations that require quick thinking and sound judgment to provide the best care.
Physical stamina: Nursing can be physically demanding, requiring long hours on your feet and the ability to lift and move patients.
Adaptability: Nurses must be adaptable to changes in procedures, technology, and patient needs.
Teamwork: Nurses work as part of a healthcare team and must collaborate effectively with colleagues to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Continuing education and professional development

Nursing is a lifelong learning profession. Continuing education and professional development are essential for maintaining licensure, staying current with medical advancements, and advancing your career. Here are some ways to continue your education as a nurse:

Continuing education units (CEUs): A requirement in many states for nurses to maintain licensure is to complete a certain amount of CEUs. These can be obtained through workshops, conferences, online courses, and in-service training.

Advanced degrees: Pursuing an advanced degree, such as an MSN or DNP, can open doors to leadership roles, teaching positions, and advanced practice roles like NPs, CNSs, CRNAs, and CNMs.

Professional organizations: Joining professional organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) or specialty-specific organizations like the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), can help nurses move forward in their careers, with resources like networking opportunities, continuing education, information on industry trends, and more.

Financial considerations

Nursing education can be expensive, but there are various financial aid options available to help manage costs:

Scholarships and grants: Many organizations offer scholarships and grants specifically for nursing students. These do not need to be repaid and can significantly reduce your education costs.
Student loans: Federal and private student loans can help cover tuition and other expenses. Be sure to explore loan forgiveness programs, such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which forgives remaining loan balances for nurses working in qualifying public service positions.
Employer tuition reimbursement: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for nurses pursuing advanced education or specialty certifications.

Challenges and rewards of a being a nurse

Nursing is a challenging yet highly rewarding career. Here are some common challenges and rewards experienced by nurses:

Challenges

High-stress environment: Nursing can be stressful due to long hours, heavy workloads, and the emotional toll of patient care.
Physical demands: The job can be physically demanding, requiring strength and endurance.
Emotional strain: Nurses often deal with difficult situations, such as patient suffering and end-of-life care, which can be emotionally exhausting.

Rewards

Job satisfaction: Nurses make a meaningful difference in patients' lives, providing care and comfort during challenging times.
Job security: The demand for nurses is high, offering strong job security and opportunities for advancement.
Variety of experiences and job opportunities: Nursing offers diverse career options and specialties, allowing you to find an area that fits your interests and skill set.
Competitive salary: Nursing salaries are competitive, and advanced practice roles offer higher earning potential.

If you’re looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career that combines your passion for helping others with your intellectual curiosity and problem-solving skills, nursing may be the right choice for you. Nursing offers many benefits, such as competitive salary, diverse work environments, and job security. To become a nurse, you’ll need to complete an accredited nursing program, pass the national licensing exam, and meet the requirements of your state board of nursing.

You can also pursue further education and certification to advance your career and focus on a specific area of nursing. Whether you want to work in a hospital, a clinic, a school, or a community setting, nursing can provide you with a meaningful career that makes a difference in people's lives.