Only licensed RNs can practice in healthcare settings. RNs who meet the educational, clinical, and exam qualifications can get licensed to work. Certifications—while not required for employment—acknowledge a registered nurse's expertise in specialized areas, such as pediatric acute critical care or cardiac medicine. It can also boost a registered nurse's career in terms of pay and responsibility.
Earning licensure serves as the last step to becoming a registered nurse. Prospective nurses can get licensed by their state board of nursing after they complete their degree, clinical hours, and pass the NCLEX-RN. Each state board sets different standards and may require additional training courses to qualify for a license.
Some states allow unlicensed RNs to practice if they get a permit. RNs must typically renew their license every years. Nursing does not require certifications, but getting these optional credentials provides greater opportunities for professional development. Qualifying RNs must complete a specific number of clinical hours and pass an exam. Having the credential validates a registered nurse's skills in a specialized area.
The AACN offers certifications in acute care, cardiac medicine, and progressive care. Nursing students find positions through their schools or other popular job boards. Nursing organizations, such as the American Nurses Association also offer career centers where members can find open positions. Many earn more when they find jobs in the top nursing industries, such as business support services, the federal government, and pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing.
See the top paying careers for RNs on this page. In hospitals, RNs work in the operating room, intensive care unit, and neonatal units. They administer medication, do assessments, establish patient care priorities, and intervene in emergencies to save lives. In nursing and residential care facilities, RNs work day and night shifts to advise patients and their families, implement infection-control policies, administer medication and treatments, coordinate care plans, and monitor residents.
RNs in ambulatory healthcare services collaborate with doctors and nurses. They collect healthcare data for patients, provide emergency care, and organize patient care.
The specific length of time depends on your previous college work. Prospective nursing students must also factor in required clinical hours. Accreditation means an independent body, such as the Commission on the Collegiate Nursing Education or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, has determined a nursing program meets industry standards.
This matters because employers often only hire graduates from accredited nursing programs. The first step to becoming an RN happens in the classroom.
How Long Will it Take? An Associate Degree in Nursing includes courses in anatomy, nursing, nutrition, chemistry, and microbiology, among others. Earning an ADN is a popular option for registered nurses. It can open the door to entry-level staff nurse positions which will provide you with hands-on experience in the medical field.
This path usually takes about two to three years. This route takes between one to one-and-a-half years. It depends. If you are looking for an entry-level nursing job at a hospital or nursing home, for example, an ADN can help you get your foot in the door.
RNs with a BSN, on the other hand, may make more money and often hold positions with more responsibility. You can find sample tests online or in books, and you can take an NCLEX prep course through various schools and companies.
Depending upon your level of dedication, a nursing degree can take the following time to complete:. Registered nurses in this program can earn a BSN in as few as 12 to 18 months. Last but certainly not least, you can climb the nursing ladder with a graduate-level Nursing education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing MSN.
It should be noted that graduate-level programs are often specialized and do not universally prepare students for all graduate-level roles—for example, would-be nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists will need to seek out specialized programs.
And although an advanced degree requires several years of schooling, the perks are worth it to many people. There are also advanced practice options that include more patient care including nurse practitioner roles or nurse anesthetists CRNA. We know that school is expensive, and you may balk at the thought of quitting your job in order to pursue your dreams.
While it may not be ideal, working through nursing school is doable. It may extend your time in school altogether, but earning money to pay for school and other necessities may be worth it. Wilson explains how it took her four years to earn an ADN. Remember—you are not alone, and many have been in your shoes before. With a little perseverance and determination, your nursing career goals can be achieved.
So how long is nursing school? As you can see, the answer can get a little complicated—much of it will depend on what your goals are and your current level of education. Having an idea of how much time you can commit to a nursing program is an ideal way to start narrowing down which path to choose.
Professional Nursing: Understanding the Differences. This data does not represent starting salaries and employment conditions in your area may vary.. It has since been updated to include information relevant to There are some errors in the form. Please correct the errors and submit again. By selecting "Submit," I authorize Rasmussen University to contact me by email, phone or text message at the number provided.
There is no obligation to enroll. Kirsten is a Content Writer at Collegis Education where she enjoys researching and writing on behalf of Rasmussen University.
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