Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare industry, providing compassionate care to patients and acting as a vital link between doctors and patients. The demand for nursing professionals is on the rise, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an increase of 6% in employment for registered nurses from 2022 to 2032. We aim to offer guidance and support to those considering a career in nursing, emphasizing the importance of education in unlocking opportunities and achieving career goals.
Schools Offering Nursing Degrees
Nursing Degrees from Chamberlain University
BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, RN-to-MSN, DNP, Nurse Practitioner
Nursing Degrees from Walden
BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD in Nursing
Nursing Degrees from Western Governors University
RN-to-BSN, BS in Nursing (Prelicensure), BSN-to-MSN, RN-to-MSN
Different Types of Nursing Roles
There are various nursing roles to consider as you embark on your nursing career, each with its own set of responsibilities and educational requirements. Here, we will explore four common nursing roles: Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Nurse Practitioner (NP), and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS).
Registered Nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional responsible for assessing patients, creating care plans, administering medications, and collaborating with physicians. To become an RN, you must earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Moving on to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), they provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs or physicians. LPNs/LVNs monitor patients, administer medications, and assist with personal care. To become an LPN/LVN, you must complete an accredited practical nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
For those seeking more advanced roles, a Nurse Practitioner (NP) is an option. NPs are registered nurses with advanced education and clinical training, allowing them to diagnose and treat health conditions, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests. To become an NP, you must obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and pass a national certification exam in your chosen specialty.
Lastly, a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice nurse with expertise in a specific clinical area, such as critical care, geriatrics, or oncology. CNSs provide direct patient care, lead nursing practice improvements, and serve as clinical experts and educators. To become a CNS, you must obtain a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and a national certification in your chosen clinical specialty.
Steps to Becoming a Nurse
Embarking on a nursing career involves several key steps, including researching various roles, completing the required education, obtaining a nursing license, gaining relevant experience, pursuing advanced degrees and certifications, and networking within the profession.
Start by researching nursing roles to determine the right path for you. Consider your interests, long-term goals, and the level of education and responsibility you desire in your career.
Next, complete the required education. Nursing programs and degrees vary depending on the desired role, such as Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Ensure that you enroll in an accredited nursing program recognized by the state board of nursing.
Once you have completed your education, obtain a nursing license by passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). This exam is required for both RN and LPN/LVN licensure. Be aware of specific state licensing requirements, as some states may have additional criteria for licensure.
Gaining relevant experience is crucial in developing your nursing skills. Participate in internships and clinical rotations during your nursing program, and consider working as a nurse assistant or patient care technician to gain hands-on experience.
Pursuing advanced degrees and certifications can open doors to more specialized and advanced nursing roles. Research the educational requirements for your desired nursing specialty and consider furthering your education to achieve your career goals.
Lastly, networking and joining professional nursing organizations can provide valuable connections, resources, and support throughout your nursing career. These organizations often offer continuing education, job boards, and networking events to help you stay informed and connected in the field.
Career Opportunities in Nursing
Nursing professionals have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, spanning various healthcare settings. Depending on your interests, experience, and education, you may find fulfilling nursing roles in several areas.
Hospitals and healthcare facilities offer a variety of nursing positions, ranging from staff nurses to nurse managers. These settings often require nurses to work in specialized departments such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, or surgical wards.
Outpatient clinics, including primary care offices and specialty clinics, provide another avenue for nursing careers. Nurses in these settings often assist with patient assessments, treatments, and health education.
Home healthcare services employ nurses to provide care for patients in their homes. This may involve administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with daily activities and personal care.
Nursing homes and long-term care facilities require skilled nurses to care for elderly residents and those with chronic illnesses or disabilities. Nurses in these settings often coordinate care plans, administer medications, and provide emotional support to patients and their families.
Schools and universities may hire nurses to provide health services to students, staff, and faculty. School nurses often manage immunization records, provide first aid, and address health concerns for the school population.
Lastly, government agencies and public health organizations employ nurses in various capacities, such as public health nurses, infection control specialists, or policy analysts. These roles often focus on community health, health education, and disease prevention.
Advancing Your Nursing Career
To further advance your nursing career, consider pursuing a specialty or advanced practice nursing role. This may involve obtaining additional certifications, engaging in continuing education and professional development, and exploring leadership and management opportunities within the nursing field.
Specialty or advanced practice nursing roles, such as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, or certified nurse anesthetists, often require additional education and certifications. Research the requirements for your desired specialty and work towards meeting those qualifications.
Obtaining additional certifications can help you stand out as a nursing professional and showcase your expertise in specific areas of nursing. Many specialty nursing organizations offer certification exams to validate your knowledge and skills in a particular field.
Continuing education and professional development are crucial for staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in nursing practice, technology, and research. Many states and employers require a certain number of continuing education hours for license renewal or maintaining employment.
Lastly, consider pursuing leadership and management roles in nursing, such as nurse managers, directors of nursing, or chief nursing officers. These positions often require a combination of clinical expertise, management skills, and the ability to lead and inspire teams of nursing professionals.
Continuing Education Requirements for Nurses
Continuing education requirements for nurses vary by location and level of licensure, but they generally aim to ensure that nurses stay current with advancements in healthcare and maintain their competence in providing safe and effective patient care. Here are some common elements you might find in continuing education requirements for nurses:
Contact Hours or Continuing Education Units (CEUs): Nurses are often required to complete a certain number of contact hours or CEUs within a specific time frame, typically every renewal period. The number of required hours can vary by state or country.
License Renewal: Nurses must renew their nursing licenses periodically, and completion of continuing education is often a prerequisite for renewal.
State-specific Requirements: Each state or country may have its own set of continuing education requirements, so nurses should check with their local nursing board or regulatory authority to understand their specific obligations.
Advanced Certification: Nurses pursuing advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists, may have additional continuing education requirements related to their specialty.
Online and In-Person Options: Continuing education can be completed through various means, including online courses, workshops, conferences, and in-person classes.
Accreditation: To ensure the quality of education, nurses are often required to complete courses from accredited providers or institutions.
Record Keeping: Nurses are typically required to maintain records of completed continuing education activities and provide proof of completion during license renewal.
Audit and Compliance Checks: Some nursing boards conduct random audits to ensure that nurses are complying with continuing education requirements.
Exemptions: Certain exemptions or accommodations may be available for nurses who are experiencing extenuating circumstances, such as medical conditions or military service.
It’s important for nurses to stay informed about their specific continuing education requirements, as failure to meet these requirements can result in license suspension or other disciplinary actions. Nurses can usually find detailed information about their requirements through their state or country’s nursing board or regulatory agency.
Embark on Your Nursing Journey
We have explored the various nursing roles, steps to becoming a nurse, career opportunities, and ways to advance your nursing career. As you consider your nursing journey, remember that education plays a crucial role in unlocking opportunities and achieving your goals. For further information and support, explore the resources available on Pathways to Advancement, and take advantage of our expert guidance to help you succeed in your nursing career.
