Last Updated on February 12, 2014
The number of aspiring registered nurses has escalated over the years largely due to a high demand and equally lucrative pay. Unfortunately, not everyone is cut out for this job and becoming one is not as easy as it seems.
Nursing as a career demands your uncompromised commitment to serve and help people. It is often regarded as a selfless career where the needs of your patients come first. In spite of this, we see a bevy of young men and women queuing up for education programs in the hopes of becoming a skilled nursing professional.
If you are one of those eager to try your hand at this job then here is some of the most important information you need to keep in mind to be able to fulfill your lifelong dream of becoming a registered nurse.
What The Job Entails
While many automatically zero in on the great salary they can make in this profession, it is first essential that you understand the responsibilities and obligations that go with this career.
As an RN, you are basically tasked with seeing to the needs of your patients by providing immediate care and attention to their condition. Your primary duties will include:
- Analyzing a patient’s medical history
- Observing and recording their symptoms
- Creating and executing a “care” plan to help your patients and their families cope
- Organizing and assigning specific tasks to nursing assistants and staff
How To Become An RN
Getting the Degree
Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) – can be completed in a 2 year community college or a 4 year educational institution. The course typically includes classroom and clinical trainings where aspiring nurses can discover and acquire the skills and foundations necessary to become an RN.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – requires completion of a 4-year nursing curriculum that includes more comprehensive training along with clinical internships.
Getting Licensed
Upon earning your degree, you need to now prep up and study hard to pass the NCLEX-RN exam or the national licensing examination in order to practice your chosen profession.
What This Career Can Give You
As one of the most sought after jobs today, a career in this field can mean security and growth for you and your family. In fact, a number of hospitals and clinics offer generous bonuses and remuneration packages to entice new RNs.
While it is true that the opportunities in the industry are endless, only those who remain committed, driven and passionate about their job will truly reap the benefits of a nursing career.
Mandy is a long time nurse and writer for onlinenursingdegrees.org. She loves helping people find a career that they can be truly passionate about.
