Starting a career in nursing may be easier than you think, and you may be surprised by how many skills can transfer to this occupation. Few other professions offer you as much chance for growth and development or allow you to make a difference in people’s lives. To help assure a smooth transition and future success, heed this guide provided by Trosclair Chiropractic and befriendyoudoc.com
What Does a Normal Nursing Career Path Look Like?
A regular career path is somewhat simple for numerous professions: you start in a junior-level specialized role, advance to a senior or management position, and then climb to higher-level management roles. However, nursing career paths aren’t this simple. There are a few educational levels for nurses, which means there are several entry points into the industry.
Usually, to become a nurse, you’ll have to get a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing or healthcare, which teaches you the necessary skills and knowledge to care for patients. Rather than an in-person class, you can consider getting an online degree, especially since many schools now emphasize this learning program type. Online classes are advantageous since they are flexible, meaning you can fit them around your daily schedule so you can keep making money in the meantime.
Whether you want a management position or just to practice nursing in a specialized care unit, it helps to know the path ahead. That’s why we’ll discuss below a few of the most common nursing career options and required education to provide you with a sampling of the numerous ways you can have a fulfilling career as a nurse.
What Type of Education Do You Need to Become a Nurse?
Aspiring nurses usually begin their careers as LPNs (licensed practical nurses), LVNs (licensed vocational nurses), or RNs (registered nurses). The first two occupations mean you work under the supervision of doctors and RNs. Your job would be restricted to essential nursing duties, such as changing bandages and recording your patients’ heart rates, and it only requires a diploma or certificate from a nursing program and state license upon passing the NCLEX-PN.
On the other hand, RNs deliver and oversee patient care only supervised by doctors. They can administer medication or perform diagnostic tests besides fulfilling other primary nursing duties. To become an RN, besides earning a certificate or diploma for an approved nursing program, you also need to get an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Some states may have further requirements for licensure, but you can contact your state boards for more specific information. Once licensed, however, you must continue your education to maintain your skills and stay updated with the medical changes and advancements.
How Do You Find a Job in Nursing?
Finding your first job as a nurse may be seen as daunting, especially since you don’t have any experience in the field. If you tap into specialized nursing job websites, you’ll find numerous job listings for nurses – you can even search Google for ‘nurse job sites’ or ‘nurse jobs,’ and it will result in hundreds of openings. Also, search job boards with listings from different online sources like Indeed and Simplyhired using keywords like ‘nurse,’ ‘RN,’ and ‘registered nurse,’ along with the location where you would like to work.
Another excellent method to find a nursing job is to ask your college career office about any available openings in the surrounding area. You should also join various nursing associations and attend conferences and workshops to meet other professionals in the field. Volunteer to help organize meetings to gain more exposure and ask faculty members about the best organizations to join. If you are looking for temporary positions, consider using a staffing agency.
In a Nutshell
Becoming a nurse is an excellent way to get experience in the healthcare industry and get started in a new career. While there are a few types of nurses, the most common are LPNs, LVNs, and RNs – also, it’s essential to keep in mind that whatever path you choose now, you can advance any time in the field.
The skilled chiropractors at Trosclair Chiropractic relieve acute and chronic pain in our patients. Online sessions are available!
