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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Registered Nurses.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Registered Nurses.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 6%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Administer medications to patients and monitor patients for reactions or side effects.
Maintain accurate, detailed reports and records.
Record patients' medical information and vital signs.
Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) requires a blend of education, licensing, and clinical experience. If you're interested in pursuing a career in nursing, understanding the steps involved can help you prepare for this rewarding profession. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to become a Registered Nurse.
Before diving into the educational requirements, it's essential to understand what nurses do and the various specialties available within the field. Nurses provide patient care, support for families, and educate the public on health conditions, among other duties. Specialties range from pediatrics to geriatrics, emergency room to operating room, and many more.
Registered Nurses typically need to complete an accredited nursing program. There are several educational paths to become an RN:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year degree offered by colleges and universities that provides a more extensive education, including leadership and research.
After completing your nursing education, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your nursing license.
Each state has its own requirements for RN licensure. Typically, this involves submitting an application, paying fees, and providing proof of education and NCLEX-RN exam results.
Once licensed, RNs can begin working in healthcare settings. As you gain experience, you may wish to specialize in a particular area of nursing or pursue advanced certifications.
For those looking to advance their careers further, pursuing higher education is an option. Advanced practice RNs (APRNs), such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), or Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), require a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
By following these steps, you can navigate the path towards becoming a Registered Nurse. Always stay informed about changes in healthcare regulations and advancements in nursing education to ensure that you remain compliant with all requirements throughout your career.
To become a Registered Nurse, you typically need to:
Yes, it's possible to advance as an RN without a BSN:
However, for certain advanced positions, a BSN might be required or highly recommended.
RNs can specialize in many areas, including but not limited to:
Specialization often requires additional certification and education.
To become an NP or APRN, you will need to:
Yes, RNs can work in management or administration. Steps to move into these roles include:
RNs have opportunities in education as:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Registered Nurses is projected to grow at a faster rate than the average for all occupations due to an increased emphasis on preventive care, growing rates of chronic conditions, and demand for healthcare services from the baby-boom population.
The renewal period for RN licenses varies by state, but it is commonly every two years. Requirements typically include:
For specific state requirements, you should consult your state's board of nursing.
To work as an RN in different states, consider obtaining a multi-state license through the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This allows you to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. However, if moving to a non-NLC state, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement.
RN working hours vary based on workplace and specialty. Common schedules include:
Flexibility is often required as patient care needs can extend beyond typical business hours.